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My dog's eye is red, drops aren't working. Should I see the vet again?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 1 year and 7 months old | 40 lbs

Since I adopted my dog almost a month ago (1.5yo Beagle/Corgi mix), his left eye has had some redness around the edges (outer membrane mostly). I've seen little to no swelling. The vet gave me eye drops for him, but they don't seem to have made any difference at all. The eye doesn't seem to bother him, and there is no abnormal discharge (both eyes just get the normal sleepy goo occasionally). Should I ask the vet to take a closer look (he's been in 3 times), or am I just being paranoid?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on November 9th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be due to something like conjunctivitis for example. However, there are some other diseases that really need a very thorough evaluation of the eye to diagnose. I think that if he has not improved on the current therapy, it may be a good idea to check in with your veterinarian. If they are concerned based on their knowledge of his case, they could consider having you consult with a veterinary ophthalmologist. They would be able to perform a thorough evaluation and recommend accordingly. Good luck and have a great day!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on December 27th, 2016
This symptom most likely indicates an inflammation or an infection, as his eye are already in a bad shape I would not recommend waiting with this issue or trying home remedies, he needs prescription eye drops- take him to your vet to get it treated.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on May 3rd, 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.
Hope this answer was helpful, but 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
Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 21st, 2019
If he's not squinting his eyelids or pawing at his face, its probably not terribly bothersome, though of course I can't speak for him regarding his comfort level. I recommend you flush his eyes daily with something like this: https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/vetericyn-plus-eye-wash-for-dogs
and then try applying this a couple of times a day for a few days. https://www.petco.com/brand/vetericyn#
this may help if he has some mild conjunctivitis or irritation. You can also talk to your vet about trying him on an antihistamine for possible allergies. Over the counter antihistamines are not labeled for use in dogs, so I would encourage you to talk to your vet about it. Here is a resource for typical recommended dosages of some common antihistamines. http://www.aahneenah.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/antihistamines_dogs.pdf

thanks for asking PetCoach!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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