What it is
Along the edge of each eyelid sit tiny glands that make an oily film to stop the eye surface drying out. In distichiasis, hairs grow out of the openings of these glands, forming a second row of lashes that points towards the eye. The tendency is inherited, and the extra lashes appear in young dogs, though they can also show up later.
How much it matters depends on the lashes. Fine, soft hairs may lie against the eye without harm, while stiff ones scratch the clear front of the eye, the cornea, with every blink. That constant rubbing causes redness and watering, and in time can lead to sores or scars on the cornea.
A dog with sore eyes may squint in bright light, shy away from being touched around the face or seem less keen to play. Groom the hair around the eyes gently, so that it does not fall into them.
Signs you may notice
- Watery eye
- Red eye
- Blinks a lot or squints
- Rubs the eye with a paw
- Fine hairs along the eyelid edge
- Cloudy patch on the eye
You may notice a watery or red eye, more blinking, squinting, or the dog rubbing its eye with a paw. Looking closely, you can sometimes see fine hairs poking out from the eyelid edge towards the eye.
When to see a vet
Book a vet visit if your dog's eye keeps watering or looks red, or your dog squints or rubs it. Go sooner if you see a cloudy or bluish patch on the eye or your dog keeps it shut.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own dog's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.