9 Most Common Eye Problems in French Bulldogs: Treatment Tips

What’s the first thing you see on a French bulldog’s face? We’re guessing it’s those big ol’ eyes. But did you know those little peepers are prone to problems? Knowing about eye problems in French Bulldog is key to their overall health. In this post we’ll introduce you to the 9 most common Frenchie eye problems, and each condition, symptoms and treatments.

Why French Bulldogs Get Eye Problems?

French Bulldogs are prone to eye problems due to their face shape. Their flat faces and big eyes make them more likely to get injured or infected. The brachycephalic head combined with shallow eye sockets increases the risk of conditions like cherry eye, corneal ulcers and conjunctivitis. Certain coat colours like merle Frenchies are more prone to genetic eye problems.

The merle gene which creates the mottled coat pattern can be associated with vision problems like microphthalmia and coloboma. These genetic predispositions combined with environmental factors make eye care crucial for French Bulldog owners. Regular check ups and proper care can manage and prevent many of these common eye problems.

What Are The 9 Most Common Eye Problems in French Bulldogs?

1. Cherry Eye

Cherry eye is a common condition in French Bulldogs where the gland of the third eyelid prolapses and forms a red swollen mass in the corner of the eye. This can be scary looking but is usually manageable.

Symptoms:

• Red or pink mass: This is the most obvious symptom, in the inner corner of the eye.
• Excessive tearing: The eye will produce more tears than usual.
• Eye irritation: Your Frenchie will paw at their eye.

Treatments:

• Surgical reposition: The most common treatment is to reposition the gland back into place and secure it. This will keep the gland functioning and prevent dry eye.
• Surgical removal: In severe cases the gland may need to be removed but this can lead to dry eye syndrome later.

Note: Cherry eye is also common in English Bulldogs and requires similar treatment.

2. Corneal Ulcers

Corneal ulcers are painful sores that develop on the surface of the eye, usually from trauma, infection or foreign objects. This is very painful and needs to be treated ASAP to prevent further damage.

Symptoms:

• Squinting: Your dog may keep their eye partially closed due to discomfort.
• Redness: The eye may appear red and inflamed.
• Cloudiness: A cloudy or bluish appearance can indicate an ulcer.
• Excessive tearing: Increased tear production is a common response to irritation.

Treatments:

• Antibiotic eye drops: Used to prevent or treat infection, depending on the ulcer’s cause.
• Pain relief medication: To alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
• Surgical intervention: In severe or non-healing cases, surgery may be required to repair the cornea.

3. Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)

Dry eye, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is characterized by insufficient tear production, leading to chronic irritation and potential damage to the eye surface.

Symptoms:

• Redness: Eyes may look bloodshot or irritated.
• Mucous discharge: Thick yellow discharge is common.
• Squinting: Your Frenchie will squint a lot.
• Dull eyes: Eyes will lose their sparkle.

Treatments:

• Artificial tears: Apply lubricating eye drops regularly to keep moisture in.
• Medications: Cyclosporine or tacrolimus will stimulate tear production.
• Cleaning: Cleaning the eyes will remove discharge and reduce risk of secondary infection.

4. Entropion

Entropion is when the eyelid rolls in and the eyelashes rub the eye. This can be very uncomfortable and if left untreated can cause damage to the surface of the eye.

Symptoms:

• Squinting: Squinting from the eyelashes irritating the eye.
• Tearing: Excessive tearing from the irritation.
• Redness: The eye will look inflamed.
• Corneal ulcers: In severe cases ulcers will develop from constant friction.

Treatments:

• Surgical correction: The best treatment is surgical repositioning of the eyelid to prevent further irritation.
• Lubricating eye drops: These will help with discomfort and protect the eye until surgery is possible.

5. Distichiasis

Distichiasis is when extra eyelashes grow on the edge of the eyelid and brush against the eye causing irritation. This can be uncomfortable and damaging if not addressed.

Symptoms:

• Tearing: Watery eyes from irritation.
• Squinting: Your Frenchie will squint or blink a lot.
• Redness: Eyes will look red and irritated.
• Corneal irritation: Constant rubbing of the eyelashes will cause more issues.

Treatments:

• Plucking: Temporary removal of the extra eyelashes to relieve irritation.
• Cryotherapy or electrolysis: Permanent solutions to destroy abnormal hair follicles.
• Monitoring: Regular check-ups to make sure no more growth.

6. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the lining of the eye, often caused by infection, allergies or irritants. This is usually treatable but can be uncomfortable for your dog.

Symptoms:

• Redness: Whites of the eyes will be red.
• Swelling: Eyelids will swell and the eye will look puffy.
• Discharge: Depending on the cause discharge will be clear or pus-like.
• Squinting: Your dog will squint from discomfort.

Treatments:

• Antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eye drops: Prescribed based on the underlying cause, whether bacterial or allergic.
• Cleaning the eyes: Cleaning the eyes regularly will remove discharge and prevent further irritation.
• Avoiding allergens: If allergic, avoid the allergen.

7. Cataracts

Cataracts in French Bulldogs are the clouding of the lens of the eye which can affect vision. This can occur in older dogs but can also occur in younger dogs due to genetic factors.

Symptoms:

• Cloudy or blue eyes: Eyes will look milky or cloudy.
• Difficulty seeing in low light: Night vision will deteriorate first.
• Bumping into things: Your dog will start bumping into furniture or walls.

Treatments:

• Surgery: Cataract surgery is removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial one which will improve vision.

Regular veterinary check-ups: Monitoring the progression of cataracts helps manage the condition effectively.

8. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition where the pressure inside the eye increases and if left untreated can cause pain and vision loss. Needs to be treated ASAP to prevent complications.

Symptoms:

• Redness: The eye will be bloodshot.
• Tearing: Excessive tearing.
• Cloudy cornea: The surface of the eye will be hazy.
• Enlarged eye: In advanced cases the eyeball will be bigger.
• Pain: If your dog is rubbing or pawing at the eye.

Treatments:

• Medications: Prescription eye drops to reduce pressure and symptoms.
• Surgery: In severe cases surgery may be needed to relieve pressure or even remove the affected eye.

9. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a genetic condition where the retina degenerates over time and causes vision loss. There’s no cure but early diagnosis can help manage the condition.

Symptoms:

• Night blindness: Initial symptoms are difficulty seeing in low light.
• Dilated pupils: Pupils will be bigger than normal.
• Bumping into objects: As vision deteriorates your dog will navigate poorly.

Treatments:

• No cure: Treatment is supportive care and management.
• Antioxidant supplements: May slow down retinal degeneration.
• Environmental adjustments: Create a safe environment for your dog to adapt to vision loss.

How to prevent eye problems in French Bulldogs?

To prevent or manage eye issues in French Bulldogs regular eye care and vet visits are key. Here are some tips to keep your Frenchie’s eyes healthy:

1. Regular Cleaning

• Wipe the eyes: Gently wipe around the eyes with a damp, soft cloth to remove discharge.
• Avoid irritants: Keep your Frenchie away from dust, pollen and smoke which can irritate the eyes.

2. Monitor for Symptoms

• Watch for signs: Check regularly for redness, swelling or unusual discharge.
• Consult a vet: Get professional advice ASAP if you see any abnormal symptoms.

3. Balanced Diet

• Nutritious food: A healthy diet overall including eye health.
• Supplements: Antioxidants or omega-3 fatty acids for eye health.

4. Safe Environment

• No injuries: Make sure your home and yard is free from hazards that can cause eye injuries.
• Supervised play: Monitor interactions with other pets to prevent rough play that can cause trauma.

5. Regularly Clean Your French Bulldog’s Tear Stains

• Remove Tear Stains: With our French Bulldog Tear Stain Remover, you’ll be able to effectively remove tear stains around your Frenchie’s eyes. 

Eye problems in French Bulldogs: Conclusion

Eye problems in French Bulldogs are common but with proper care and attention many can be managed or prevented. Knowing these conditions, symptoms and treatments will have your Frenchie living a happy healthy life.

Get your vet if you see any eye problems in Frenchies. Note that even small issues can grow into a big one if you leave it untreated. With care your Frenchie will be your playful loving companion.