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Why does my puppy's eye infection keep coming back after treatment?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | neutered | 5 months and 20 days old | 80 lbs

My puppy has been diagnosed with conjunctivitis of the eye about 2 months ago, since then he’s been on two rounds of medication (gel) that is applied to rim of the eye. Usually it goes away for a week or 2 after the medication has been fully finished but always comes back eventually. it started in his right eye and now it bounces between both. Is this normal that it won’t go away? I’m seeing the vet this week but wanted to be prepared

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 19th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Oakley. No, it is not normal for an eye infection to continue for so long in a puppy. I would recommend he has eye tests done or repeated as his condition is not resolving. I typically stain both eyes to look for a scratch on the surface, take a swab to look at under the microscope, and then measure the pressure and tear production in each eye. Care should also be taken to see if there is an eyelash contacting the surface of his causing chronic irritation. His eyes can also be numbed and checked for a foreign body under the third eyelids. I hope this information helps!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 11th, 2016

    No, that isn't normal that it keeps coming back, and she may need a different medication to treat it (I'm not sure what you are currently using). I would take Shelby back into the vet in the morning to talk with them about the recurring infection, and if a different medication will work better for her.

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