Eye discharge in older dogs can be worrying for pet owners, especially when it appears suddenly or changes in color and texture.
While mild tearing can sometimes be normal, chronic or unusual discharge may point to underlying health issues that require attention.
We outline the common causes of an old dog’s eye discharge, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Old Dog Eye Discharge — Why It Happens
Eye discharge in old dogs can be caused by age-related tear duct changes, infections, dry eye, conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, or even more serious conditions like glaucoma and tumors. Some breeds are more prone to excessive tearing, but in senior dogs, the causes are often medical rather than cosmetic.
Because vision is vital to your dog’s comfort and safety, any persistent or unusual discharge should be taken seriously.
Older dogs are more vulnerable to complications, and untreated eye issues can quickly lead to pain or even vision loss.
Old Dog Eye Discharge: Common Causes
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, or inflammation of the tissue around the eye, is a frequent cause of eye discharge in old dogs. It can be triggered by allergies, bacterial infections, or environmental irritants like dust and pollen.
Discharge may appear watery, yellow, or green, often accompanied by redness and squinting. An old dog may rub its face against furniture or paw at the eye, making irritation worse.
If untreated, conjunctivitis can lead to further eye damage and secondary infections, so it should not be ignored in senior pets.
Read more: Old Dog Cloudy Eyes (What it means)
Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)
Dry eye occurs when the tear glands do not produce enough moisture to protect the eye. This condition is common in older dogs, especially breeds like Cocker Spaniels and Bulldogs.
Without enough tears, the eye becomes inflamed and produces thick, sticky discharge as a defense mechanism. Owners may notice a dull-looking eye surface, constant blinking, or heavy crusting around the eyelids.
Left untreated, dry eye can cause painful ulcers and permanent vision damage, making early veterinary treatment crucial.
Corneal Ulcers
A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the surface of the eye, often caused by trauma, infections, or chronic dry eye. Senior dogs may be more prone to ulcers due to weaker immune systems or underlying health issues.
Symptoms include squinting, excessive tearing, and a cloudy appearance to the eye. Discharge may be watery at first, but as infection sets in, it can turn thicker or pus-like.
Because ulcers can progress rapidly, especially in older dogs, immediate veterinary care is needed to prevent blindness or chronic pain.
Tear Duct Blockages
Over time, an old dog’s tear ducts can narrow or become blocked, preventing normal drainage of tears. This leads to constant overflow that stains the fur beneath the eyes and causes irritation.
Owners may see clear or slightly mucoid discharge, often worse on one side. While this may not always be painful, chronic wetness can lead to skin infections and discomfort.
Tear duct flushing or minor surgical procedures may be recommended to relieve the blockage and restore proper drainage.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a serious condition caused by increased pressure inside the eye. It can lead to permanent blindness if not treated quickly.
Dogs with glaucoma often develop red eyes, cloudy corneas, and watery or thick discharge. The eye may appear enlarged or bulging, and dogs may show signs of sudden pain, such as whining or hiding.
Because glaucoma is a medical emergency, any suspicion of this condition in an old dog requires immediate veterinary intervention.
Eye Tumors
Older dogs are more likely to develop tumors in or around the eye, which can interfere with tear production or cause secondary infections. Tumors may push on the eye, change its shape, or cause bloody discharge.
Although not as common as other causes, tumors are more serious and often progress silently until discharge and swelling become noticeable.
Veterinary evaluation is essential to determine if surgery, medication, or other treatment is needed to keep your dog comfortable.
What to Do If Your Old Dog Has Eye Discharge
If you notice discharge in your old dog’s eyes, start by gently wiping the area with a clean, damp cloth. Always use a separate cloth for each eye to avoid spreading infection. Avoid harsh chemicals or human eye drops, as these can make the condition worse.
Provide your dog with a clean, dust-free environment to minimize irritation. Using a humidifier in dry climates may also help dogs with mild discharge related to dryness.
If your dog tolerates it, you can use veterinarian-approved saline solutions to rinse debris from the eyes. However, never attempt to treat severe discharge at home without professional guidance.
The most important step is scheduling a veterinary exam. Even seemingly mild eye discharge in an older dog can signal deeper problems that need timely care.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
You should contact your vet promptly if your dog’s eye discharge is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by other concerning signs. Seek veterinary care immediately if you notice:
- Thick yellow, green, or bloody discharge.
- Redness, swelling, or cloudy eyes.
- Squinting, pawing at the eyes, or signs of pain.
- Sudden changes in vision, such as bumping into furniture.
- One eye looking noticeably different from the other.
Because old dogs are more at risk for complications, waiting too long can mean the difference between a simple treatment and permanent vision loss.
Read more: Old Dog Eyes (Common Old Dog Issues)
Key Takeaway
Eye discharge in old dogs can range from mild and harmless to a sign of serious eye disease. Common causes include conjunctivitis, dry eye, corneal ulcers, tear duct blockages, glaucoma, and even tumors.
While gentle cleaning and supportive care at home may help in mild cases, veterinary evaluation is essential to rule out dangerous conditions and protect your dog’s vision.
With the right care and timely treatment, many older dogs with eye discharge can stay comfortable and continue to enjoy their golden years with clear and healthy eyes.