My dog's eye swells after playing outside. Is it just allergies?

Poor Alpha! The most common reasons for swollen eyes are bee strings/bug bites or an allergic reaction (of which you generally never know the cause). Trauma or something stuck in the eye could also cause swelling in the area. Carefully check the area for any stingers or marks. You can apply a cold (not cold) compress to the area. Unfortunately, unless you find a stinger, you won't know the cause. You must also protect the area from rubbing with an elizabethan collar since rubbing could make it worse. I recommend to play it safe and have Alpha examined by the veterinarian today. The doctor will check the eye as well as look for clues as to the cause. If an allergic reaction is suspected, he will likely receive an injectable antihistamine and possible a steroid or anti-inflammatory. Just like with humans, some pets may experience an anaphylactic reaction. Monitor your dog for signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, general weakness or a progression of swelling. If you see any of those signs this could indicate a serious anaphylactic reaction and you need to take him into the vet immediately. Also, if the swelling doesn't go down after 24 hours, take him into your vet. Best of luck.

Yes, it could be allergy related. The best thing to do is rinse out his eyes a couple times per day with an eye wash like this: https://worldtails.securevetsource.com/itemView/view/198943_Home.pml?productId=118452 You could also use an oral antihistamine like Claratin (loratadine) 10mg once per day.

Do not give any or apply anything into Oliver's eyes without the advice of your veterinarian. Contact your vet about giving an antihistamine in addition to Apoquel to Oliver for relief. There are OTC antihistamines that can be used in dogs as well as several prescription options. Discuss dosing with your vet as, legally, we are unable to recommend medications and dosing in the absence of a patient-vet-client relationship and a physical exam.

That looks like chemosis - swelling of the conjunctiva. The underlying cause, I don't know. All the things I can think of that can cause chemosis should easily resolve with topical steroids. Since it is not resolving, then yes, I think a consult with a veterinary ophthalmologist would be necessary at this point. Best wishes.

These types of reactions are not usually associated with seasonal allergies. I would expect that she perhaps had an insect sting or a spider bite. If the swelling returns she should be seen by a veterinarian. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

It's a little difficult to tell exactly what might be red and swollen in your picture. It looks like the redness and swelling may be around the eye as opposed to actual eye itself. If this is the case, an allergic reaction or eyelid infection would be two of the more common causes. If it is the white of his eye that looks swollen conjunctivitis, a corneal abrasion, or inflammation in the eye would all be possibilities. If the swelling worsens or if you notice swelling around the other eye or the muzzle I'd recommend seeing a veterinarian as soon as you can since this would increase the concern for an allergic reaction which should be treated promptly. Otherwise I think you're okay to wait to see your regular veterinarian if the swelling is still present in the morning, unless he seems painful or begins squinting.

Poor Huck. It's possible that he has a pollen allergy or inflammation of his eyes. I would recommend he be seen by your veterinarian to rule out more serious issues like an ulcer or foreign material in the eyes. If it is just allergies they can prescribe topical eye drops to bring him comfort. I would place a cone on him to prevent him from traumatizing his eyes.