Dog Entropion"Dog entropion is a condition where the eyelid appears to have rolled back into the eye socket. It can be inherited or in older dogs muscle atrophy. The condition can be corrected with surgery." Entropion is a dog eyelid problem where there is a rolling back of the eyelid. It tends to be found in certain breeds (see below). There are several types of entropion: Genetic Entropion: genetic condition found in certain breeds. Conformational Entropion (also called anatomic entropion): occurs in dog breeds that have faces with thicker skin or eyes that are deeply set (eg; St. Bernards, Shar peis). Geriatric Entropion: found in older adult dogs due to a weakening of the muscle (atrophy) or a loss tissue in the eye. A more minor problem is when the same problem occurs in the lower dog eyelid. This condition is called canine ectropion. Breeds with Canine EntropionThe following breeds have an above average incidence of canine entropion:* Shar Pei
Picture of Dog Entropion Eyelid Problem
Canine Entropion TreatmentThe goal of treatment is to realign the eyelids into normal position. This can be accomplished through canine entropion surgery where some muscle and skin is removed in order to achieve the desired result.Best practice is to perform the operation on dogs when they are at least 4 months old. The condition needs to be corrected in order to avoid corneal ulcers which can form if the eyelid's eyelashes cause irritation on the surface of the eye. Other problems include eye pain, spasms where your dog appears to wink, conjunctivitis, and keratitis (inflammation of the cornea). Your dogs eyesight can be harmed if the condition causes scarring which impairs eyesight. It is possible that once your dog is older they will need to undergo corrective surgery again is the growing process causes the condition to reappear. SourcesAVCOHereditary Diseases of the Canine Eyelid and Cornea Peter Bedford, Professor Royal Veterinary College Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences Hawkshead Lane, UK From Dog Entropion to More on Dog Eye Health |
Can't Find It? Search Our Dog Health Library