Best Eye Drops for Dogs: Top 10 Picks for Canine Eye Care for 2024

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

For your dog’s best eye health, think about the top eye drops of 2024: Vets Preferred Advanced Eye Wash, Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Eye Wash, and Ocunovis Gel Drops.

These vet-recommended solutions ease dryness, irritation, and infections while comforting discomfort.

Always talk to your vet to find out if there are any other problems and to make sure the drops are safe for your furry friend.

Trusted brands, right ways to put them in, and taking care of any tear gland problems or allergies are very important when picking the best eye drops for dogs.

Explore further to keep your pup’s vision bright and clear.

10 Best Eye Drops for Dogs

Are you looking for the top eye drop options for your canine companion? Check out our list of the 10 best eye drops for dogs, including popular picks like Vets Preferred Advanced Dog Eye Wash, Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Eye Wash, and Ocunovis Dog Cat Gel Eye Drops.

These products can help address a variety of eye issues in dogs, from dryness to infections.

1. Vets Preferred Advanced Dog Eye Wash

View On Chewy

The Vets Preferred Advanced Dog Eye Wash is a gentle yet effective solution for flushing out dirt, debris, and irritants from your pup’s peepers. This boric acid-based formula soothes and moisturizes irritated eyes, helping to break down those pesky eye crusties and tear stains.

Whether your canine companion is dealing with seasonal allergies or just needs a little freshening up, this eye wash has got you covered. Just a few drops can work wonders, providing soothing relief and keeping those windows to the soul sparkling clean.

It’s a must-have for any dog parent’s toolkit!

Best For: Dogs with irritated eyes, tear stains, or seasonal allergies

2. Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Eye Wash

View On Chewy
Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Eye Wash is a top pick for canine eye care, offering a cost-effective, pain-free, and natural alternative to medicated eye drops. This eye wash is designed to soothe painful irritation, remove foreign dirt and debris, and maintain healthy eyes.

It’s suitable for all pets and helps prevent tear stains, making it a veterinarian-recommended maintenance solution. The active ingredient, Hypochlorous Acid, at 0.009%, works to relieve burning, irritated, or red eyes while the inactive ingredients, Electrolyzed Water, Sodium Chloride, Phosphates, and Sodium Hypochlorite, maintain an inhospitable environment for germs and fight eye infections.

Best For: Pets with irritated, red, or burning eyes, or those prone to tear stains.

3. Ocunovis Dog Cat Gel Eye Drops

View On Chewy

Say goodbye to dry, uncomfortable eyes with Ocunovis Dog Cat Gel Eye Drops. These advanced eye drops are designed to deliver long-lasting lubrication, making them a top choice for canine eye care. The gel formula is easy to apply and creates a sheer, thin application with no blurring, ensuring your pet’s vision remains clear.

Formulated with BioHance Hyaluronic Acid, Ocunovis helps protect and hydrate your dog’s eyes, providing relief for those suffering from dryness or allergies. With 125 drops in the bottle, these eye drops are a convenient and cost-effective solution for maintaining your pet’s eye health.

Some pet owners have reported seeing symptoms improve when using Ocunovis twice daily, and it can be used in conjunction with other medications to treat dry eye conditions. It’s not too thick or too watery, making it easy to control and dispense. While results may take several days of daily use, Ocunovis is a trusted and effective choice for keeping your dog’s eyes healthy and comfortable.

Best For: Pets with dry or uncomfortable eyes.

4. Nutri-Vet Dog Eye Cleansing Rinse

View On Chewy

Nutri-Vet Dog Eye Cleansing Rinse is a sterile ophthalmic eye wash designed to gently cleanse a dog’s eyes and surrounding tissue, providing relief from discomfort caused by dried mucus, foreign material, pollen, and other irritants that can lead to eye infections.

The rinse is formulated with boric acid, which is beneficial in fighting eye infections, irritants caused by foreign particles, and air pollution. Regular use of the rinse can help remove tear stains and slow down their formation.

To use, remove excess matter from the eye corners and apply 2-3 drops in each eye. For irritated eyes, apply several drops in the eye to clean and refresh. It’s suitable for dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes.

Best For: Dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes who need relief from eye discomfort caused by dirt, debris, and other irritants.

5. Vetericyn Plus Dog Cat Eye Wash

View On Amazon

Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Eye Wash is a non-stinging solution that gently cleans your pet’s eyes and surrounding tissue to help relieve irritation caused by burning, stinging, itching, pollutants, and contaminants.

It can also be used for the reduction and appearance of tear staining.

This eye wash is safe for all animal species at all life stages and is safe if licked or ingested.

It doesn’t contain antibiotics or steroids.

Best For: Pets with irritated eyes, pink eye, or other eye irritations.

6. Nutri-Vet Eye Rinse for Dogs

View On Amazon

Nutri-Vet Eye Rinse for Dogs is a sterile ophthalmic eye wash that gently cleanses the eyes and surrounding tissue, helping to relieve discomfort from dried mucous, foreign material, pollen, and other irritants that can lead to eye infections.

This product is specially formulated to create an inhospitable environment for germs and bacteria in the eyes. It contains boric acid, which is very beneficial in fighting eye infections and irritations caused by foreign particles and air pollution.

Regular use of Nutri-Vet Eye Rinse will remove tear stains and slow down their formation.

To use, apply 2-3 drops in each eye for general use, and several drops for irritated eyes to clean and refresh.

Best For: Dogs with irritated eyes, tear stains, or mild-to-moderate conjunctivitis.

7. Burt’s Bees Natural Eye Wash for Dogs

View On Amazon

Burt’s Bees Natural Eye Wash for Dogs is a saline solution that mimics a dog’s own tears, making it gentle and easy to use. This product is made with natural ingredients and is pH balanced for dogs and puppies.

It’s designed to flush out debris from a dog’s eyes and is safe to use, as it’s free of harsh chemicals, sulfates, colorants, and fragrances. The formula is suitable for all dogs and puppies and can help relieve red or itchy eyes.

To use, apply 2-3 drops directly into the affected eye to clean out debris.

Best For: Dogs and puppies with red or itchy eyes or debris in their eyes.

8. Dr Goodpet Eye C Natural Eye Drops

View On Amazon

Dr. Goodpet Eye-C Natural Eye Drops for Dogs & Cats are a popular choice for pet owners looking for a natural solution to support their pets’ eye health. These drops are made with 100% human-grade ingredients, including vitamin C and zinc, which are essential nutrients for maintaining healthy eyes. The formula is preserved with benzalkonium chloride, a common preservative used in eye drops to prevent bacterial growth.

To use Dr. Goodpet Eye-C, simply apply 1 or 2 drops into your pet’s eyes morning and evening, as advised. The drops are designed to provide relief from minor eye irritation and discomfort, making them a suitable option for pets experiencing allergies or colds. While the drops are formulated for both dogs and cats, it’s imperative to consult with your veterinarian before administering any eye drops to verify that they’re appropriate for your pet’s specific needs.

Dr. Goodpet Eye-C Natural Eye Drops are available in various sizes, including a 1-ounce bottle, and can be purchased from trusted retailers such as Chewy, Co-op Market, and Smallflower. As with any eye drop product, it’s essential to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions and consult with your veterinarian for the best results.

Best For: Pets experiencing eye irritation and discomfort, such as allergies or colds.

9. Gold Medal Pets Clean Eyes Solution

View On Amazon

Gold Medal Clean Eyes Solution is a popular choice among pet owners for canine eye care. This sterile, isotonic solution is designed to gently flush away foreign matter and relieve eye irritation caused by various environmental factors. The active ingredient is purified water, which acts as a flushing agent, while inactive ingredients include boric acid, sodium borate, sodium chloride, sorbic acid, and disodium edetate.

This mild irrigating solution is suitable for both cats and dogs and is effective in cleaning debris and matter from irritated eyes or flushing the eye in case of irritation. It’s particularly useful for removing irritants or foreign matter and relieving eye irritation caused by wind, dust, dirt, sun, air pollution, pollen, and ragweed.

Gold Medal Clean Eyes Solution is available in various sizes, including a 4-ounce bottle, which is convenient for regular use at home. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and to consult with a veterinarian before using any eye drops for your dog.

Best For: Canine eye care

10. I-Drop Vet Plus Pet Eye Drops

View On Amazon

Wrapping up our top picks for canine eye care in 2024, let’s shine a spotlight on I-Drop Vet Plus Pet Eye Drops. These aren’t your average drops; they’re like the Swiss Army knife for your dog’s eye health.

Packed in a 10-mL sterile bottle, this lubricating solution is a game-changer. It’s crafted with viscoadaptive biopolymers, making it the go-to for flushing out those pesky irritants and providing long-lasting lubrication.

Think of it as a spa day for your pup’s peepers, offering relief from infections and keeping their eyes in tip-top shape. Remember, though, while it’s tempting to play vet, always consult a professional before diving into treatment.

After all, it’s about keeping those tail-wagging adventurers safe and sound.

Best For: Dogs seeking relief from eye infections and discomfort.

Dry Eye in Dogs

Does your dog’s eyes seem dry, irritated, and painful? Dry eye, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a common eye condition in dogs caused by inadequate tear production. Understanding the causes, clinical signs, and diagnostic tests can help you get the right treatment for your canine companion.

Causes

Dry eye in dogs can be caused by various factors, including eyelid conditions, conjunctivitis, tear duct problems, corneal injuries, and uveitis. It can also be a result of keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) or immune-mediated diseases, infections, medications, hypothyroidism, or nerve damage that impair tear production. The Schirmer tear test (STT) is used to diagnose dry eye, which measures tear film production.

Breeds Predisposed

Some breeds are more susceptible to dry eye, a condition known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), than others. These breeds include the American Cocker Spaniel, West Highland White Terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Lhasa Apso, English Bulldog, English Bull Terrier, and English Cocker Spaniel.

Other breeds that are more prone to KCS include the Yorkshire Terrier, Bulldog, Pekingese, Pug, and Lhasa Apso.

It’s crucial to test these breeds frequently and diagnose dry eye promptly to prevent severe damage to the tear glands and guarantee a more favorable long-term prognosis for the dog’s eyes.

Clinical Signs

Dry eye in dogs can cause painful, red, irritated eyes, excessive blinking, squinting, and holding eyes shut. Dogs may also exhibit thick, yellowish, mucoid discharge, corneal ulceration, and recurrent eye injuries, ulcers, and conjunctivitis. These clinical signs indicate the need for eye drops to provide relief and prevent further complications.

Diagnosis

After noting the indicative signs of dry eye, such as corneal ulceration, it’s time to delve into diagnosis. Here’s how:

1. Schirmer Tear Test: Measures tear production, ensuring those peepers are well-oiled.
2. Corneal Staining: Reveals any damage, because seeing is believing.
3. Intraocular Pressure and Tear Duct Examination: Checks for pressure concerns and duct dilemmas, because every drop counts in keeping those doggy eyes dazzling.

Treatment

Treating dry eye in dogs involves addressing the underlying causes and providing appropriate eye drops. Dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), is a condition where the eye doesn’t produce enough tears to lubricate and protect the cornea. This can be due to various factors such as inflammation, immune-mediated diseases, infections, medications, hypothyroidism, and nerve damage.

To treat dry eye, you can use a combination of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription eye drops. OTC options include saline eye drops, lubricating drops, and tear stimulants. For example, Burt’s Bees Eye Wash is a saline solution that can help flush debris from the eye, while I-DROP VET PLUS is a lubricating drop that can help soothe dry, irritated eyes.

Prescription eye drops may include antibiotics, steroids, anti-inflammatories, glaucoma drops, and tear stimulants. These should be administered under the guidance of a veterinarian, as they may require a prescription and careful monitoring.

It’s essential to consult with a veterinarian before administering any medication to your dog, as their eyes are different from human eyes and require specialized care. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and veterinarian’s advice when using eye drops for your dog.

Eye Drop Application

Regarding the application of canine ophthalmic solutions, adhering to appropriate protocols is crucial for efficacy and safety.

Initiate by sanitizing your hands and verifying the cleanliness of the vial’s tip. Delicately remove any accumulations from the dog’s eye.

Grip the vial with your thumb and index finger, retract the lower eyelid, and dispense the drops directly onto the globe.

Subsequently, release the dog’s head, allowing it to blink, distributing the drops across the eye.

Consult a veterinarian prior to utilizing any ophthalmic solutions, and be cognizant of potential adverse effects, contraindications, and precautions.

Human ophthalmic solutions are unsuitable for canines due to their distinct ocular anatomy and varying requirements.

Choosing the Right Eye Drops

When selecting eye drops for your canine companion, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian to verify you address the underlying condition effectively. Additionally, purchase eye drops from reliable sources, confirm the packaging is unopened and intact, and follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer and your vet’s recommendations.

Consultation

When selecting the most suitable eye drops for your dog, it’s imperative to consult with a veterinarian.

They’re equipped to identify the precise condition affecting your dog’s eyes and recommend the appropriate medication.

Over-the-counter remedies may provide temporary relief but may lack the active ingredients essential for treating specific eye conditions.

Human eye drops aren’t appropriate for dogs, as ingredients deemed safe for humans may not be safe for dogs, and vice versa.

Drops intended to alleviate redness may contain ingredients that could be detrimental to dogs if ingested.

Certain glaucoma eye drops contain brimonidine, a substance that’s toxic to dogs.

Always seek advice from your veterinarian before administering any eye drops to your dog.

Trusted Sources

When selecting the appropriate eye drops for your dog, it’s essential to procure them from reputable sources to guarantee the product’s safety and efficacy.

Seek out well-known brands and retailers specializing in pet healthcare products.

Perusing reviews prior to purchasing can also grant valuable information on the product’s effectiveness and potential side effects.

By choosing products from trusted sources, you can aid in preventing eye irritation, managing dry eye, and eliminating tear stains in your dog.

Unopened Packaging

Unopened packaging is essential when choosing the right eye drops for your dog. Here’s why:

1. Shelf life: Unopened eye drops have a longer shelf life, ensuring they remain effective and safe for use.
2. Storage conditions: Keeping eye drops in their original packaging helps maintain the appropriate storage conditions, such as temperature and light exposure, to preserve their quality.
3. Expiry dates: Unopened eye drops typically have expiry dates printed on their packaging, indicating when they should be used by.
4. Ingredients list: The packaging provides a clear list of ingredients, making it easier to identify any potential allergens or substances that may cause adverse effects in your dog.
5. Potential side effects: Unopened eye drops come with information about potential side effects, allowing you to make an informed decision about their use.
6. Choosing the right eye drops: By ensuring the packaging is unopened, you can be confident that the eye drops are suitable for your dog’s specific condition and haven’t been altered.
7. Surgical correction: Unopened eye drops are essential for post-surgical care, as they can help prevent infection and promote recovery.
8. Allergies in dogs: Unopened eye drops help avoid allergic reactions, as they haven’t been exposed to allergens or irritants.
9. Salivary duct: Unopened eye drops can help manage issues related to the salivary duct, such as infections or blockages.

Directions

When selecting the appropriate eye drops for your dog, it’s essential to adhere to specific guidelines to guarantee their efficacy and safety. Here are four key aspects to contemplate:

1. Consult with a veterinarian: They can assist you in identifying the most suitable eye drops for your dog’s particular condition and ocular anatomy.
2. Procure from reputable sources: Acquire eye drops from established vendors to avoid fraudulent products.
3. Inspect packaging: Verify that the eye drops are unopened and the packaging is undamaged to prevent contamination.
4. Follow manufacturer and veterinarian instructions: Utilize the eye drops as prescribed for maximum effectiveness and safety.

Eye Health Support

You’ll want to contemplate eye washes, lubricants, and tear stain removers to aid your dog’s eye health. Regular eye washes can purge irritants and maintain appropriate moisture levels, while lubricating drops coat the eye surface to prevent dryness. Tear stain removers treat unsightly staining around the eyes, frequently caused by excessive tear production or blocked tear ducts.

Eye Washes

Eye washes, also referred to as eye health support, are crucial for maintaining your dog’s eye well-being. These products can aid in flushing out debris, alleviating irritation, and even addressing specific eye conditions. Here are some essential factors to keep in mind when selecting an eye wash for your dog:

1. Saline Solution: This forms the foundation of most eye washes. It assists in cleaning your dog’s eyes safely and gently, and it’s generally non-irritating.
2. Aloe Vera: Recognized for its soothing qualities, aloe vera can help reduce irritation and inflammation in your dog’s eyes. It also contributes to hydrating the eyes.
3. Boric Acid: This compound possesses antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it valuable in eye washes for dogs susceptible to eye infections. However, its concentration must be kept very low to prevent irritation.
4. Witch Hazel: This natural astringent can help soothe irritation and reduce swelling.
5. Chamomile: Known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, chamomile can also be beneficial in an eye wash.

When using an eye wash, it’s imperative to avoid any products that contain alcohol or harsh chemicals, as these could irritate your dog’s eyes. As always, seek advice from your veterinarian before introducing any new products into your dog’s eye care regimen.

Lubricants

When your pup’s peepers seem parched, lubricating eye drops can be a sight for sore eyes. They boost tear production, tackling dryness head-on to keep those doggy orbs glistening. Say goodbye to redness and irritation with a few well-aimed drops, ensuring your furry friend’s eyes stay as bright and clear as a cloudless sky.

Tear Stain Removers

Tear stains can be a common concern for pet owners, especially those with light-colored or white-coated dogs. These stains are often caused by excess tear production, which can be due to various factors such as blocked tear ducts, shallow eye sockets, allergies, or certain breeds’ predisposition. To effectively tackle tear stains, it’s crucial to understand the root causes and consider natural remedies and grooming tips.

Coconut oil, for instance, is a gentle and moisturizing natural remedy that can help soften and remove tear stains. Apply a small amount of coconut oil to the stained areas and gently massage it into the fur daily until the stains fade. Chamomile tea can also soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation, making it an excellent natural remedy for tear stains. Brew a weak chamomile tea solution, allow it to cool, then apply it to the stained areas with a cotton ball.

Incorporating turmeric into your dog’s diet can also help reduce tear staining from the inside out. Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Regular grooming is imperative for preventing and managing tear stains. Keep the area around your dog’s eyes clean by gently wiping with a damp cloth daily and trim any overgrown hair around the eyes to minimize irritation and tear buildup.

Herbal remedies such as parsley, dandelion, and eyebright can be effective in reducing tear stains in dogs. These herbs contain natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate tear staining when added to your dog’s diet. Apple cider vinegar is another versatile natural remedy known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water, then use a clean cloth to gently wipe the area around your dog’s eyes.

For a more permanent solution, consider a balanced diet that supports the immune system and reduces the production of mucous that leads to tear stains. Opt for high-quality dog food free from artificial additives and fillers, and consider switching to a grain-free or hypoallergenic diet if your dog has food sensitivities contributing to tear stains.

Allergies in Dogs

Allergies can cause discomfort and distress for dogs. Here are some key points to take into account:

• Allergy Triggers: Environmental factors like pollen, dust mites, and mold can cause allergic reactions in dogs. Food allergies, such as those to chicken or beef, can also trigger allergic responses. Skin allergies, like atopic dermatitis, can be caused by various irritants.
• Allergy Testing: If you suspect your dog has an allergy, consult with a veterinarian. They may recommend blood tests or skin tests to identify the specific allergen.
• Environmental Allergies: Keeping your dog indoors during high pollen seasons can help reduce exposure to environmental allergens. Regular bathing and grooming can also help remove allergens from their fur.
• Food Allergies: Avoid feeding your dog foods that have caused allergic reactions in the past. Read labels carefully and consult with a veterinarian for guidance on dietary changes.
• Skin Allergies: Treating skin allergies often involves managing the underlying cause, such as environmental or food allergies. Topical treatments, like medicated shampoos, may also be recommended.

Eye Infections

Eye infections in dogs can be caused by various factors:

Bacterial infections

Viral infections

Foreign bodies that enter the eye

Symptoms of eye infections in dogs include:

Redness

Discharge

Squinting

Pawing at the eye

Holding the eye closed

Treatment for eye infections in dogs depends on the cause.

Topical antibiotics are typically used for corneal ulceration.

It is essential to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment of eye infections in dogs.

Glaucoma in Dogs

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can cause blindness in dogs.

It’s characterized by increased pressure within the eye, which damages the optic nerve and leads to vision loss.

Glaucoma can be caused by various factors, including genetics, trauma, and certain medications.

Symptoms include redness, squinting, and sensitivity to light.

Diagnosis involves a thorough eye exam, including pressure measurement.

Treatment may include medications, surgery, or a combination of both.

Prevention includes regular eye exams and monitoring for risk factors.

Tear Gland Issues

Dogs can suffer from a variety of eye issues, including tear gland problems. One common condition is dry eye, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). It occurs when the dog’s immune system attacks the tear glands, leading to inadequate tear production.

Symptoms of dry eye include redness, mucous discharge, and corneal ulcers. Treatment may involve immunosuppressants, artificial tears, and in some cases, surgery to redirect saliva glands to the eye.

Other conditions that can affect tear gland function include infections, ulcers, and glaucoma. Always consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment of your dog’s eye issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)