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Why is my dog's eye closed and leaking fluid? Is it serious?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Female

My friends dog's eye is closed(been closed for 1-2 days ) and wont open. There is only "tear" like substances coming out of the eye why is this?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 13th, 2018

It's not possible know exactly what's happening with the eye, but it's definitely hurting badly if it's swollen shut. It could have gotten hurt from something hitting the eye, or she has an infection in the eye, or in the tissues surrounding the eye. The only way to tell what this is, is to have a veterinarian examine the eye. I recommend having this done in the next 24 hours to help prevent her from being in pain and possibly save the eye from irreparable damage.

I hope that helps and Dogz gets better soon.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner
Published on January 3rd, 2018
Dogs can get a build up of material in the glands of their eyelids that will cause swelling. This can be a buildup of normal material which does not normally cause pain and inflammation or bacteria which are usually painful and inflamed and will often appear red on the inside of the eyelid. I would recommend having your veterinarian examine Mo's eyelid just to make sure that it is not inflamed or infected which would indicate that some treatment is needed.
Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 8th, 2017
Poor guy. What you describe sounds likes a condition called Entropion. This is a folding in of the eyelid, particularly the lower eyelid. This folded in eyelid has eyelashes attached and rubs on the eye cornea causing irritation. The clear liquid you see is a result of irritation caused by the rubbing eyelashes. An infection isn't present yet; however, Max still has an eye issue and needs to be evaluated by your vet. Typically pets with Entorpion require eye surgery to correct the lid, so talk with your vet about your options and cost for treatment.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on January 16th, 2018
That is likely to be due to a mild to moderate conjunctivitis, probably secondary to a trauma or infection. A check up would be needed as appropriate treatment would include antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops. Corneal injuries must be ruled out as well.
Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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