The breed confirmation of many beloved dog breeds has changed significantly over the past 100 years. Dachsunds are shorter, Bull Terriers have a more sloped face, and the rear end of German Shepherds has changed. Bulldogs are more severely brachycephalic and Shar-Peis are wrinklier.
These changes can have serious
health consequences. Eyelid problems are a major breed-related health issue that has increased over the past decade. Due to the evolution of desired breed traits, sagging eyes and painfully turned inward lids (called “ectropion”) have become more common in many breeds. Indiana Birds
Eyelid problems such as eyelid mass, excessive eyelashes growing toward the cornea (dystocia), or large eye openings (macropalpebral fractures) aren’t all genetic. However, they have become more common.
Most dogs with mild to moderate
ectropion or even mild entropion will suffer from chronic irritation over their entire lives. They may also experience frequent infections and “dry eyes” due to the tear ducts not being near their eyes. Corneal ulceration is caused by eyes that are too dry, or the eyelid hairs constantly rubbing against the delicate cornea.
These eyelid problems can lead to pain (typically) or even loss of vision (not as often as you might think). Bad lid conformation can lead to poor vision and require plastic surgery (called Blepharoplasty). This is not an inexpensive procedure. Certain breeds are more susceptible to each disorder than others.
Ectropion in Dogs
(Basset Hound and Bloodhound) These breeds have a sad look with long ears, sad eyes, and floppy skin. These “desirable confirmation breeds” are known for having excessively large eyes, which can lead to ectropion. Sometimes, surgical correction is required.
(Clumber English and American Cockers Springer) These dogs have wrinkled faces and droopy ears. There is often a lot of skin all over the body. Ectropion is a condition where the skin becomes droopy. This can lead to severe skin problems that often require surgical correction.
Bully Breeds
Bull Terrier, Bulldog, Bull Terrier. These dogs have a muscular, stocky build and brachycephalic (squished face) conformation. Bull Terriers, Boxers, and Bulldogs have a round and extended skull. This abnormal head shape can cause outward rolling of the eyes and may need surgery.Ectropion is also common in Labrador Retrievers and Gordon Setters as well as Shih-Tzus.
Dogs and Entropion
The size and conformation of American Staffordshire, Yorkies, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier breeds can vary, but these pups are very susceptible to entropion. This may require surgery.
(Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Flat-Coated Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Gordon Setter and Irish Setter.) Although sporting breeds are similar to terrier breeds in size and appearance, they can form entropion. They should be checked if they have reddened their eyes, increased tear production or excessive tearing.
Bully Breeds
These dogs are a mix of Bulldogs, Bulldogs, and French Bulldogs. Their worried, flat faces have won the hearts of Americans. Can Dogs Have Broccoli These “adorable” traits can lead to breathing difficulties, skin and joint problems, as well as entropion. As with many other breeds, surgery is sometimes required.
Spaniels
English Springer, English Toy, Tibetan, English Cockers, English and American Cockers, English Springer and English Toy Spaniels are more likely to be prone to both entropion or ectropion. Inflammation and infection can result from the eyes rolling inward or outward due to loose skin and macropalpebral fissures. To reduce the rolling of the skin, it is possible to have the skin around your eyes surgically tightened.
