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Why are my dog's eyes itchy? Can Benadryl help or is it serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 44 lbs

Colleen eye's, itchy. What could be the cause? Would Benedril help? When is this serious?

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2 Answers

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Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 24th, 2017

Benadryl is unlikely to help but won't hurt anything. You can also try a warm compress and saline eye wash to make sure there is nothing in there irritating them. If she is unable hold them open or the swelling gets worse or you notice a mucous discharge then I would take her to a vet tonight. If it is not better by tomorrow then I would take her in then

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 18th, 2017

    If Sadie's eyes are looking terrible and are really bothering her, then she should be on a stronger medication for her allergies that Benadryl. She may benefit from Apoquel or steroids, which the vet can prescribe. To help with her eyes itself, she may benefit from a topical eye ointment. Because the eye is such an important and delicate structure, any problem with them should be considered an emergency. Leaving them untreated can lead to vision loss. Sadie really should see a vet now for her eye problems, as she could really damage them if she's rubbing at them because they bother her so much. Please take her into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website.

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