The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.
Learn more »
Dogs can start to experience vision impairment or blindness as they age. It’s often a startling transition for both dogs and their owners, and it requires special care and attention to help dogs adjust.
Dogs often exhibit specific signs when they’re starting to lose their vision. Knowing the common signs can help you provide early treatment for your dog, which can slow down disease progression and help you maintain your dog’s quality of life. If you have any suspicions that your dog is losing their sight get them checked over by your veterinarian. We’ve listed seven signs of vision loss in dogs and have tips for how you can help your dog navigate the changes that come with it.
The 8 Signs That Your Dog Might Be Going Blind
1. They Get Startled Easily
If your dog’s vision starts to weaken, you may notice that they get scared more easily. They may flinch in surprise if you approach them from the side or behind to pet them. Some dogs may get startled when a car drives past them while they’re out on a walk.
You can help your dog feel more relaxed by avoiding approaching them from behind. If you have to wake them or get their attention, call their name or gently tap their bed or the floor instead. Directly touching your dog when they’re unaware can end up frightening them.
Image Credit: Jill Gulles, Shutterstock
2. They’re Hesitant to Walk
Having impaired vision may cause your dog to feel more hesitant about walking around. You may notice decreased activity, and dogs that once enjoyed going on walks may no longer want to go outside. Some dogs can develop a fear of going up and down the stairs.
You may have to assist your dog by walking with them around the house with a leash. It’s also helpful to rearrange furniture to prevent your dog from bumping into it and then not changing the layout so they can learn it. If you have stairs in your home, use gates at the top and bottom to protect them from tripping down the stairs.
3. They’re Sniffing More Frequently
Your dog is likely to rely on their other senses when they experience vision impairment. Dogs have powerful noses that help them navigate their environments, so it’s common for dogs to sniff more after vision loss. They may pause to sniff before they resume walking. Some dogs may sniff around when they enter a new room. Your dog may also take extra time to sniff their toys and treats before eating them.
Image Credit: Zontica, Shutterstock
4. They Bump into Walls
Since vision impairment affects spatial awareness, your dog may bump into walls more frequently, even if they have partial vision. They can also trip on things on the floor, such as toys and carpet rugs.
It’s helpful to create clear and simple pathways around your house so that your dog can avoid bumping into objects. You can use non-slip mats or hallway rugs to create paths that lead to your dog’s food and water bowls, beds, and other areas that they frequent. Your dog will be able to navigate on their own as they get used to feeling the mats and rugs.
5. They Have Cloudy Eyes or Discharge Around Eyes
It’s common for dogs’ eyes to cloud over slightly as they age. This occurrence is often attributed to nuclear sclerosis, but it doesn’t usually cause vision impairment. Cataracts also cause a milky or cloudy appearance but do affect vision. However, other medical issues can cause cloudiness and discharge around the eyes. Eye diseases can also cause swolleness, redness, and discharge around the eyes.
Cataracts, glaucoma, and anterior uveitis are all medical conditions that can cloud your dog’s eyes, and they can be quite painful. If you notice your dog’s eyes looking cloudy, it’s best to take them to your veterinarian to determine the cause and receive proper treatment.
Image Credit: selvaco, Shutterstock
6. They Resist Jumping Up and Down Furniture
Because your dog’s spatial awareness can be affected by vision impairment, they may become more hesitant to jump up and down from furniture. They often require assistance in order to use furniture without hurting or injuring themselves.
If your dog is becoming resistant to jumping up and down from furniture, buying dog stairs can be helpful for them. Dog stairs can help dogs maintain their independence and confidence, as they can get onto furniture on their own without anyone’s help.
7.
They Have Increased Clinginess
Dogs may experience heightened clinginess when they have vision impairment, resembling separation anxiety. They may become more attached to their owners and reluctant to be alone, constantly seeking their presence. It’s crucial to show compassion to your dog without reinforcing excessive dependence. Making adjustments to your home and routine can aid your dog in coping with vision loss without becoming overly reliant on you.
Image Credit: Aleksey Boyko, Shutterstock
They Have Difficulty Finding Familiar Objects
Dogs with vision impairment may struggle to locate familiar objects in their surroundings. They might have trouble finding their food and water bowls, and may even miss potty pads accidentally. One way to help your dog locate their food is by warming it up, as the stronger smell makes it easier for them to sniff it out.
How to Help Dogs Through Vision Loss
See Your Veterinarian
If you suspect vision loss in your dog, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian. Vision loss can indicate various health issues, and a proper diagnosis from a vet is crucial. While some cases of vision loss may be temporary and treatable, others could lead to permanent blindness.
Image Credit: Zontica, Shutterstock
Make Adjustments to Your Home
If your dog’s vision loss is irreversible, it’s crucial to adapt your home and routine accordingly. Your vet can assist in creating a safe environment for your dog, and collaborating with a dog trainer can introduce new activities to prevent anxiety or depression. Clearing obstacles, using rugs for navigation, and installing safety gates can help your dog navigate the home safely.
Use Protective Devices
With vet approval, consider using an anti-collision ring or dog protective eye goggles to protect your dog from collisions and eye injuries.
Image Credit: aabeele, Shutterstock
Be Patient and Compassionate
Patience and compassion are key when helping a dog adjust to vision loss. Dogs may experience fear and anxiety during this transition, and your support and encouragement can aid in their adaptation. Slow and incremental vision loss may be easier to adjust to than sudden blindness.
Conclusion
Vision loss in dogs is a significant event requiring attention and care. Prompt veterinary consultation is vital to diagnose and address the underlying causes. While adjustments are necessary, dogs can lead fulfilling lives even with vision impairment.
Featured Image Credit: ThamKC, Shutterstock
original sentence: The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.
Rewritten sentence: The lazy dog is jumped over by the quick brown fox. following sentence:
