Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog's eye is red, dry, and itchy. Is it allergies or something new?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 2 months old | 13 lbs

My dog was at a friend's this weekend while I was out of town, and when I picked him up, under his eye was dry and flaky and red and irritated. I trimmed the hair around his eyes, gave him half a benadryl (that he takes occasionally already) and applied a little coconut up above his eye and a little below. He's progressively itching more. Is it his allergies still, or something new? It's never been this bad.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on October 8th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor George! Thanks for the pictures! I think George has allergies or has blepharitis which is inflammation of the eyelid, glands and tear ducts. Since it is not improving and he is scratching more I think you should schedule an appointment to have him looked at by your Vet. Treatment may involve steroids, antibiotics and or ointment for his eye. I hope this helps and I wish George a speedy recovery!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on

    It could be allergies, mites, or conjunctivitis. If it doesn't look better tomorrow, I would recommend that you have George checked out by a vet. Until then, make sure he isn't rubbing it with his paws or rubbing his face on the ground or furniture, since this could cause damage to his eye. If the area around his eye continues to swell, he may need to see an emergency vet.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Can I use human contact lens solution as eye drops for my mouse?
Can you use contact lens saline for your mouse's eye drops? A certified vet discusses ingredients like boric acid and potassium chloride. Find safe solutions for your pet!
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored