Cherry Eye in Dogs

Category
Eye
Breeds documented
6
Published sources
5

Overview

A tear-producing gland normally hidden within the third eyelid can slip out of position. The third eyelid is a thin membrane at the inner corner of the eye. The displaced gland creates the pink or red swelling known as cherry eye. One or both eyes may be affected, and irritation or reduced tear production can follow because the gland helps keep the eye moist.

Signs to watch for

  • A round pink or red lump at the inner eye corner
  • Redness around the eye
  • Discharge from the eye

Most common in young dogs, usually before 2 years of age.

When to get help Book a vet visit soon if a pink swelling appears at the inner eye corner.

Diagnosis and tests

A vet usually recognizes cherry eye by examining the smooth, rounded swelling at the inner edge of the lower eyelid. A tear test may check how well the eye produces tears. The examination also checks for abnormal third-eyelid cartilage, which can create a similar swelling and sometimes occurs alongside cherry eye.

Breeds with documented risk

6 breeds

By breed size
  • 2 Small
  • 3 Medium
  • 1 Giant

Inheritance

  • Not yet known

    None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.

Sources

  1. Cornell Riney Canine Health Center: Cherry eye in dogs: vet.cornell.edu
  2. Basset Artésien Normand: ecvo.eu
  3. Braque D'auvergne: saksanseisojakerho.fi
  4. Bulldog: doi.org
  5. Puggle: petmd.com