Simple Caring Tips for Pekingese Eyes
Let’s discuss caring for Pekingese eyes…
We all know how important it is to keep our four-legged friends happy and healthy, and one of the most important parts of that is taking care of their precious little eyes.
Specifically, if you have an adorable Pekingese pup, you’ll need to give their eyes a little extra love and attention.
In this short blog post, we’ll dive into some easy and practical ways to care for your Pekingese’s beautiful eyes, so keep reading to learn all about it!
Common Pekingese Eye Problems
The following are some common Pekingese eye problems you should know:
- Dry Eye – Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS).
- Cataracts.
- Cherry eye.
- Third eyelid prolapse.
- Corneal ulcers.
- Kinked eyelashes.
- Ectropion (the eyelid turns out from the eye).
- Entropion (the eyelid turns in towards the eye).
- Keratitis (inflammation of the cornea).
Learn more about the common Pekingese eye problems.
Signs of Eye Problems in Pekingese Dogs
Some common signs of eye problems in Pekingese dogs include bulging or protruding eyes, excessive tearing or discharge, redness or inflammation, cloudiness in the eyes, squinting or blinking frequently, rubbing or pawing at the eyes, and vision loss.
It is important to take your Pekingese to a veterinarian if you notice any of these symptoms to ensure proper treatment and prevent further damage to their eyes.
Cleaning Pekingese Eyes
Here is a step-by-step process for cleaning a Pekingese dog’s eyes:
- Prepare materials: Get a clean, damp washcloth or cotton pad, and a dry towel. Make sure the washcloth or cotton pad is clean to avoid any bacteria from entering the eyes.
- Position your dog: Sit your Pekingese dog on your lap or a stable surface where they are comfortable and relaxed. You can also have treats to keep your dog calm and distracted.
- Wet the washcloth or cotton pad: Wet the washcloth or cotton pad with warm water and gently wring out the excess water.
- Gently clean the eye: Hold your dog’s eye open and gently wipe the area around the eye, removing any discharge or debris. Be sure to be gentle to avoid irritating the eye or causing scratches.
- Dry the eye: Use a dry towel to gently pat the eye dry. This will also help remove any remaining discharge and prevent any moisture from causing irritation.
- Repeat with the other eye: Repeat the process on the other eye, using a clean washcloth or cotton pad.
It’s important to note that if you notice any signs of discomfort, redness, swelling, or discharge, contact your veterinarian as these may be signs of an underlying eye infection or condition that requires medical attention.
Ways of Caring for Your Pekingese Eyes
The following are some common ways of caring for your Pekingese eyes:
1. Regular Eye Examinations
Routine visits to a reputable veterinarian are essential for preserving the overall health of your Pekingese eyes.
The veterinarian will thoroughly examine the eyes for any signs of infection, inflammation, or other underlying disorders during these checks.
Early discovery of potential issues enables early treatment and avoidance of subsequent difficulties.
2. Keep the Eyes Clean
Due to their shallow eye sockets and large eyes, Pekingese dogs are prone to tear stains.
Tear stains happen when tears overflow and discolor the fur around the eyes.
To avoid tear stains, keep the area surrounding the eyes clean. Use a soft cloth or specialist pet wipes to gently clean the eyes.
This treatment removes any dirt, debris, or dried tears, keeping the region around the eyes clean and preventing discoloration.
3. Maintain a Proper Diet
A nutritious and balanced diet is critical for your Pekingese general health, including eye health.
Ensure that their food contains necessary vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, which is essential for eye health.
Vitamin A is essential for normal vision and the prevention of some eye diseases.
Consult your veterinarian to select the appropriate food for your Pekingese, taking into account their individual nutritional requirements.
4. Provide Adequate Eye Protection
Pekingese dogs’ eyes are more prone to injury, especially during outside activity.
It is critical to protect their eyes from dust, wind, and other objects.
When necessary, consider using specially designed dog goggles or a canine visor to protect their eyes.
These eye protection devices can help avoid corneal abrasions and other eye problems.
Learn more about how to care for your Pekingese dog.
5. Be Mindful of Allergies
Allergies in Pekingese dogs can harm their eyes and create discomfort.
Pollen, dust mites, particular foods, and environmental irritants are examples of common allergies.
Excessive itching, redness, swelling, or discharge are all symptoms of ocular allergies.
If you suspect allergies, see your veterinarian to determine the best course of action.
To relieve your Pekingese symptoms, they may prescribe antihistamines, eye drops, or dietary adjustments.
6. Prevent Eye Trauma
Pekingese dogs are more prone to ocular injuries due to their prominent eyes.
It is critical to avoid situations that could result in unintended injury.
Avoid rough play and expose them to potentially dangerous locations where items or other animals could hurt their eyes.
Furthermore, exercise caution when handling your Pekingese and discourage children from pulling or tugging on their faces, since this can strain the eyes and potentially cause injury.
7. Promote Good Hygiene
Good cleanliness is essential for preventing eye infections in Pekingese dogs.
Trimming the fur around their eyes on a regular basis keeps it from impeding their eyesight and causing irritation.
Long hair around the eyes can collect dirt and debris, increasing the likelihood of eye infections.
Maintain a well-trimmed fur that does not come into contact with the eyes.
Additionally, clean their bedding and living areas on a regular basis to reduce the presence of bacteria or fungi that could cause eye infections.
8. Monitor Tear Production
Excessive tearing is a typical problem in Pekingese dogs, causing tear stains and discomfort.
If you detect any sudden variations in the number of tears produced, seek veterinary care.
Chronic tear staining may indicate an underlying condition that requires care, such as blocked tear ducts, eyelid abnormalities, or corneal irritation.
Your veterinarian can determine the reason for severe tearing and recommend solutions.
9. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
To avoid any potential danger, use pet-safe solutions when cleaning near your Pekingese’s eyes.
Harsh chemicals, such as those found in household cleaners, can irritate the eyes and aggravate existing conditions.
Consult your veterinarian for information on dog-specific eye care products.
These items are soft and safe, ensuring good eye hygiene while causing no injury or pain.
10. Provide Adequate Lighting
Lighting is critical for your Pekingese vision. Make sure their surroundings are well-lighted, especially at night or in dimly lit settings.
Inadequate lighting can cause mishaps and make it harder for your Pekingese to navigate their environment.
By providing appropriate illumination, you may create a safer environment that will benefit their visual acuity.
Learn more about foods Pekingese dogs should avoid.
Benefits of Caring for Your Pekingese Eyes
The following are some common benefits of caring for your Pekingese dog eyes:
- Regular eye care can help prevent eye infections, which can be uncomfortable and painful for your dog.
- Proper eye care can prevent eye injuries, such as scratches or foreign objects getting into the eye.
- Keeping the area around the eyes clean can prevent tear staining and other cosmetic issues.
- Monitoring your Pekingese eyes can help you detect any changes in their health, such as the development of cataracts or other eye diseases.
- Regular eye exams with a veterinarian can catch potential problems early when they are more easily treated.
- Proper care can help prevent eye diseases that could lead to vision loss.
- Preventative eye care can help ensure your Pekingese can continue to see and enjoy their environment.
- Maintaining good eye health through proper care can reduce the risk of needing potentially expensive eye surgeries later in life.
- Overall, regular eye care can help keep your Pekingese comfortable, healthy, and happy.
It’s important to note that each Pekingese is different, and your dog’s specific eye care needs may vary depending on their health, environment, and other factors.
If you have concerns about your Pekingese’s eyes, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian for personalized guidance.
Learn more about Pekingese grooming tips.
How to prevent eye problems in Pekingese dogs
Pekingese dogs are prone to various eye problems due to their flat faces and long hair.
These issues can range from minor irritations to more serious conditions that could potentially lead to blindness.
Here are some ways to prevent eye problems in Pekingese dogs:
- Keep the eye area clean: Make sure to clean the eye area regularly to prevent any buildup of dirt, dust, or other foreign particles that could cause irritation.
- Trim the hair around the eyes: Long hair can easily irritate Pekingese eyes, so regular trimming of the hair around the eyes will help to prevent this.
- Use eye drops: Artificial tears can be used to help keep the eyes moist, particularly in Pekingese dogs that suffer from dry eyes.
- Keep the face dry: Ensure that the face is dry after your dog drinks water or eats to prevent moisture buildup, which can cause infection.
- Shield the eyes from the sun: Use dog goggles to protect your Pekingese’s eyes from harmful UV rays when taking them outside in sunny conditions.
- Monitor allergies: Pekingese dogs may have allergies that could result in eye problems. Keep an eye out for any signs of allergies and treat them accordingly.
- Watch for signs of infection: Keep an eye out for symptoms such as redness, swelling, or discharge from the eyes. Early detection and treatment of infections can help to prevent more serious issues.
- Regular vet checkups: Regular visits to the vet can help to catch any eye problems early.
- Be aware of genetic conditions: Pekingese dogs have certain genetic conditions that can lead to eye problems. Knowing your dog’s medical history and breeding lines will help you be aware of any potential issues and take preventative measures.
Related Questions
Why is it important to care for Pekingese eyes?
Pekingese dogs have large, bulging eyes, which are prone to a variety of health problems, including infections, allergies, and glaucoma. Proper eye care is crucial to maintain your Pekingese’s eye health and ensure their vision is not compromised.
How often should I clean my Pekingese eyes?
You should clean your Pekingese eyes regularly, at least once a week, to avoid a buildup of dirt, dust, and debris. Additionally, if you notice any signs of discharge or redness around their eyes, you should clean them more frequently using a vet-approved eye wash solution.
Can I use human eye drops to treat my Pekingese eye problems?
No, you should never use human eye drops on your Pekingese, as they contain chemicals that could be harmful or even toxic to your dog. Only use vet-approved eye drops or ointments to treat any eye problems your dog may have.
What are some signs that my Pekingese may have eye problems?
If your Pekingese is squinting, rubbing their eyes, has redness or swelling around their eyes, or has discharge or cloudiness in their eyes, they may have an eye problem that requires attention from a veterinarian.
Can Pekingese develop cataracts?
Yes, Pekingese are more likely to develop cataracts than other dog breeds due to their genetic predisposition to the condition. Additionally, cataracts can be caused by injuries, infections, and other underlying health problems.
Is it okay to let my Pekingese ride with their head out of the car window?
No, it’s not a good idea to let your Pekingese ride with their head out of the car window. This puts them at risk of eye injuries from debris, wind, and bugs, and even a small accident could cause serious damage to their eyes. It’s best to keep them safely secured in the car with a seat belt or a crate.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as you can see, caring for your Pekingese’s eyes is crucial for their health and happiness.
Taking the time to regularly clean their eyes, keeping hair out of their face, and monitoring any unusual symptoms can help prevent potential eye infections or diseases.
Remember, our furry friends rely on us to keep them healthy, so let’s show them the love they deserve by giving them the best care possible.
With these simple tips, your Pekingese eyes will shine brighter than ever before!