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My dog is itching non-stop, swollen, painful eyelid. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 65 lbs

Hello, my dog has been itching non stop for a few weeks now and I’m not sure what’s going on just today I noticed a place above his eye lid that is swollen and hurts if I go to touch it. I know he is uncomfortable and I’m not sure what to do.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 13th, 2018

There could be a couple of reasons why Oscar is itching non-stop, and you are right he is uncomfortable. The itching can be caused by fleas, mites, ringworm, or allergies. If he isn't up to date on his flea treatment, I can give you one for him. First, I would give him Capstar. It's a one time pill that starts killing fleas within 30 minutes. Then follow up with a spot on treatment, such as Advantage or Revolution. This is a treatment that has to be used once a month. You will also have to disinfect the environment. Wash his bedding in hot soapy water, and vacuum the furniture and carpet surfaces. You can use a spray to kill fleas in the house, such as Indorex, or a flea bomb would work well to kill the fleas in the home. Even if he up to date on his flea treatment, I recommend taking him into the vet for an exam tomorrow. The vet can do blood tests, skin scrapings, and use a Wood's lamp to diagnose allergies, mites, and ringworm if he's recently had flea treatment. Once the cause of the itching is found, the vet can prescribe the appropriate treatment. The reason why I recommend a vet visit is because of the situation with his eye. That is something that definitely needs to be checked out and treated by a vet. Tonight, try giving him an oatmeal bath to see if that helps temporarily relieve his symptoms. Best of luck!

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