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My dog's left eye is swollen. What's wrong and does he need a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 3 months and 1 day old | 17 lbs

My dogs left eye is swollen

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2 Answers

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Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

Veterinarian

Published on June 27th, 2020

Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Swelling of one eye only suggests traumatic episode. It could be self-inflicted trauma from excessive scratching, or it may be a blunt injury from walking into something or being scratched by another animal. As there is a risk of damage to the cornea, I would suggest you to take Cooper to your local vets today to fully examine the eye and to get treatment for him.

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    Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 9th, 2018

    Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I can see a small amount of inflammation and hair loss around the eye. This is an indication of chronic itching. This can be caused by conjunctivitis, allergies, or irritation caused by an ulcer or foreign body. Your vet can rule out serious conditions such as a foreign body or ulcer, and prescribe any inflammatory eye drops or a special diet in case of allergies. In the meantime, you can get Lito an E-collar or “cone” to prevent him from scratching and causing further damage. I hope this helps and that all is well!

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