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Chihuahua puppy eye vessel: Is it normal, and will it fade away?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) | Female | unspayed | 1 month and 27 days old | 1.4 lbs

Hi, I paid to ask this question already but the photo did not come through so I did not get an answer. I am thus trying again. I am due to pick up a chihuahua puppy just over 8 weeks old but I noticed it’s had a prominent vessel/vain in the eye from the iris across the sclera. I am trying to ascertain whether I should be concerned and also if it’s likely to fade or disappear. The breeder is not concerned. Thank you.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on September 15th, 2020

Based on the picture, Peggy's blood vessel looks most like a vortex vein, which is a normal variation in some dogs. Vortex veins do not go away, but they also do not cause problems or require any treatment. However, I can't say definitively that this is indeed a benign vortex vein without examining Peggy to be sure that she doesn't have any other ocular changes. I would certainly take Peggy to a veterinarian right away for an exam and have a plan in place with the breeder if your vet feels that she may have other bigger issues after their exam. Congratulations on your new addition!

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    Answered By Rebecca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It is normal to see vessels in the sclera. If concerned, I recommend a vet visit as soon as you get the pup and be sure the breeder will take the puppy back if problems are found. That's a good practice in general. Good breeders will require you to take a pup to the vet within 24-48 hours of acquiring them to be sure there are no health issues, and they should take the pup back and offer another or refund if problems found. But not all breeders do this.

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