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My dog's red, shut eye with discharge & ear scratching: Vet needed?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Pinscher | Male | neutered | 8 years and 1 month old | 15 lbs

My dogs eye is completely red and purple, has a lot of discharge, and he usually keeps it shut. He also scratches his ear on the same side a lot. I just want to know what I can do at home to make him better.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on August 13th, 2019

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be due to an eye injury or conditions such as a corneal laceration, corneal ulcer, conjunctivitis, dry eye (also known as KCS), among many other conditions. There is nothing you can do at home. He needs to be evaluated as soon as possible as this is likely serious and his eye health may be in jeopardy. I highly recommend that you have Tank evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Further therapy would be based on the findings. Good luck and best wishes!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on November 3rd, 2017
It does look like Tank's eye is very irritated. There are several possible causes for this, including allergies, something stuck under the eyelids, corneal ulcer or abrasion, among several others. I would recommend that you have Tank checked out by a vet, since corneal issues can get worse very quickly. Until you see a vet, you can use warm compresses to soothe the eye and remove any discharge. You can also use a saline eye wash to flush out the eye of any debris that may be causing irritation. If Tank is rubbing his eye with his paws or on the furniture/ground, then he may need to wear an e-collar to prevent further damage to the eye.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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