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Caissie Canine Instruction: Why do dogs get “Eye-boogers”?



We begin this week’s “RUFF TAILS” featuring a beautiful American Bully XL puppy named Jagger.


Everyone calls me Jags.

I want to say “hi” to everyone and fur friends as well. I have been told I am confident and fearless by many of my new friends.



My dad says some people may want to avoid me when I

get bigger because of how I look, but my dad said it’s okay, because I am SPECIAL!!!!!



Welcome to Doggie Dialogue:


A dog’s eyes function much like ours. Dogs can get dry eye, infections, and inflammation. Dogs do get eye discharge and most people refer to this as “eye boogers”.


Normal dog eye discharge is usually white to grey and consists of mucus and trapped debris. The tear glands create tears constantly throughout the day to help flush out this debris.


When eye discharge accumulates on the inner corner of the eye, and tends to get crusty, this is “eye boogers”. Most dogs will have this type of discharge in the morning because the mucus doesn’t get wiped away when your dog/dogs are sleeping.


Eye discharge that differs in colour, or is excessive, may signify an underlying health issue. Excessive, clear, and watery eye discharge can be the cause of allergies, physical irritation, or a foreign object.


If eye discharge is green or yellow this is usually a sign of corneal infection. (dry eye/conjunctivitis)


If your dog has red eyes or inflammation that covers the eyeball, this can be a virus or bacterial infection, please see your vet.



Some breeds like Labradors, Pugs, and Boston Terriers may have a constant low-grade discharge because how their eyes and surrounding hairs are situated on their face.




We have found the best way to clean your dog’s “eye boogers” are the following:

  1. Wash your hands before touching your dog’s eyes

  2. Use a wet, warm, soft tissue or cotton ball to wipe the corner of your dog’s eyes

  3. If the “booger” is hard and crusty then we recommend using a sterile saline (you can get this at your vet’s office)



Keeping your dog’s hair around the eyes groomed is the best way to prevent debris from accumulating.


Cleaning the eyelids with a warm, wet cotton ball daily helps prevent the crusts and further irritation of the skin.

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