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My dog's eye is swollen and itchy. Should I take him to the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boxer | Male | unneutered | 10 months and 9 days old | 53 lbs

My dog has had itchy eyes for a while and I bought him some Goodwinol ointment that should arrive tomorrow. Today I woke up to his eye like this! I gave him some benadryl and I’m hoping the ointment works. Anything else I should do?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 2nd, 2020

I would worry that the swelling might be due to an eyelid infection or allergic reaction, and Goodwinol would not treat these problems. It's also possible that the Goodwinol would cause irritation so close to the eye. I'd recommend seeing a veterinarian since oral medications like antibiotics might be necessary. If Zeppelin is squinting or other areas of his face seem swollen I'd recommend seeing your vet.

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    Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 2nd, 2018

    I am sorry to hear about Augie Apollo! We could be seeing these symptoms for a variety of reasons such as an allergic reaction (such as an insect bite near the eye), trauma to the cornea leading to a painful scratch that is causing discomfort, an infection leading to swelling and discomfort, a foreign object such as a grass awn stuck behind the lids causing discomfort and swelling. You can try rinsing the eye well with a sterile eye wash solution. Benadryl may be helpful if an allergic reaction is the cause but if it is not it won't help Augie's problem. If the eye is still squinty/swollen after rinsing well I would recommend a visit to the vet. They can put special stain on the eye to check for scratches/ulcers on the cornea and can look closely behind the eyelids to ensure there is not object/debris causing his issue. Best of luck!

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