Epiphora for Dogs
Epiphora refers to a condition where there is an abnormally high level of tears. Epiphora can be caused by the shape of the eye. Overproduction of tears may be congenital. This can happen due to either distichiasis (turning in of the eyelashes) or entropion (turning in the eyelid). Indiana Birds Distichia is most common in young shelties, miniature poodles, shih-tzus, and Lhasa apsos. Some Chinese sharpies, mastiffs, and pugs are most likely to experience entropion. It could affect the upper or lower lid. This condition could be secondary to irritation of the eyes.
Types and Symptoms
Epiphora can be identified by a sudden overflowing of tears, tear drainage, and/or staining of the face. You may also notice:In brachycephalic breeds, congenital abnormalities can include an excessively large opening in the eyelids that causes increased eyeball exposure. Ectropion is a turning of the eyelid outward. It’s common in Great Danes and bloodhounds as well as spaniels. Some breeds can have entropion at birth. It may be caused by post-traumatic eyelid scarring or facial nerve paralysis.
Causes
Epiphora can be caused by conditions a dog may have. These conditions can include rhinitis/sinusitis which causes swelling near the tear drainage system, trauma or fractures to bones in the face, and foreign bodies in eyes (e.g. grass, seeds, parasites).
Also, tumors of the third eyelid and the conjunctiva, nasal cavity, maxillary bone, sinuses around the eyes, as well as the conjunctiva, eyelids, nose, eyelids, and the nasal cavity will be taken into consideration. An overflowing of tears may be caused by a condition that causes the nasolacrimal (tear duct), to become blocked. Grey German Shepherd This could be due to inflammation from an acquired condition or a congenital abnormality.
Congenital absence of normal openings in the tear drainage system can cause blockage of the Nasolacrimal Drainage System. This is common in bulldogs, cocker spaniels, and poodles. In some cases, extra openings may form in the tear drainage system, such as along the side of your nose, just below the corner of your eye. Another possibility is a lack of openings in the nose from the tear drain system.