However, these can make certain health conditions much more likely. One condition that vets diagnose quite frequently in practice is an eye problem called entropion. This condition is often seen in breeds with excessive facial folds or exaggerated facial features. Let’s explore entropion and the problems it causes in more detail.
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What‘s entropion?
Entropion is a condition where the eyelid margin rolls inward, causing the eyelashes and hairs from the fur to rub against the surface of the eye (cornea). This is more common in the lower eyelids than the upper ones. When the hair contacts the cornea in this way, it is very uncomfortable for the animal (think how unpleasant it is if you get an eyelash of a piece of dust in your eye!) and can lead to eye ulcers and scarring.
Entropion is different to a condition called ectropion. This is a different eyelid problem whereby the eyelid rolls outwards (away from the eye). This condition can cause the cornea and inner surfaces of the eyelid to become exposed, dried out and sore.
What causes entropion?
It is usually congenital which means the dog is genetically predisposed to it. Some breeds are more prone to entropion than others including Shar Peis, Bulldogs and Pugs. This is usually due to their other facial features like short noses and wrinkled skin. However, some other pedigree breeds also seem more commonly affected by it than others including Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, Springer Spaniels, Chow Chows and Great Danes. Affected animals should not be bred from, to avoid potentially passing these issues on to their offspring.
As well as a genetic predisposition, there are other causes for this entropion including –
- Skin problems – changes in the dog’s skin could cause thickening to occur around the eyes, leading to entropion.
- Age – As dogs get older their skin can become saggier, causing eyelids to roll inwards.
- Trauma – Injuries to the eyelids, or surgery, could possibly lead to entropion.
- Weight loss – Weight changes could potentially cause the skin around the eyes to become more saggy.
- Pain – Painful conditions can cause the eyeball to sink back into the eye socket, which can cause the surrounding skin to roll inwards.
What are the symptoms of entropion?
Dogs that are suffering from entropion show the following symptoms –
- Watery eyes (producing excessive tears)
- Rubbing the eyes (either with their paws or rubbing their face against the carpet)
- Squinting or holding eyes closed
- Discharge from the eyes
- Recurring eye infections
- Inflamed eyes
- Eye ulcers
- Scarring/pigmentation of the eye from chronic irritation
How is entropion treated?
Your vet will be able to diagnose entropion by carefully examining your pet’s eyes. If they find that your dog is suffering from this condition, they will advise treatment.
The most common treatment for this condition is surgical correction. Affected dogs are anaesthetised, with the operation involving the removal of a section of skin from the affected eyelid. This pulls it back out into its correct position, preventing the inward roll.
The most performed surgery is the Hotz-Celsus, with the prognosis being good for most patients. In some cases, two rounds of surgery may be required, to get things as anatomically correct as possible. This surgery is usually performed on dogs that have reached their full adult size, as facial features can change with growth.
For very young animals a temporary procedure may therefore be required to alleviate their symptoms while they are still growing. Some breeds like Shar-Peis can develop entropion from a very early age when they are too young for the corrective operation. In these cases, temporary ‘tacking sutures’ or staples can be placed to pull the eyelid away from the surface of the eye. Some patients’ entropion may resolve as they grow, but if not, they will require surgery.
Research has also been done into the use of dermal fillers like hyaluronic acid, which shows promise. The idea is that an injection can be given near the eyelid margin, introducing a filler which acts to push the eyelid margin out and away from the eye.
As well as a corrective procedure for the position of the eyelid, other treatments may be required for any damage that has occurred to the surface of the eye. Ulcers or infections will need to be treated with antibiotic eye drops, lubricants and pain relief.
What is the prognosis for entropion?
The prognosis for entropion is good when it is managed appropriately and surgically corrected. If left untreated, affected dogs will experience chronic irritation and issues like corneal ulcers. They may even suffer from pigmented scarring which is permanent and can affect vision. If you are concerned that your dog is showing signs of entropion, then seek help sooner rather than later.
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