"My dog always has gunk coming out of her eyes. Can you tell me what it is and what I can do?" – Wesley

Answer:

Dogs have eye discharge, just like people do.  It is just a natural secretion, and it is the body’s way of cleaning out the eyes.  Any dust or dirt that gets in your dog’s eyes should get washed away in the secretions.  However, I know it is not always the prettiest thing to look at.  Here is how you can clean up that "gunk" and keep your dog looking pristine and pretty:

If you have a white dog: there are many products out there that are created for white dogs.  When your dog tears, the tears create brownish stains on their white hair.  Tear stains are also an area that may become a hotbed for bacteria. Some dogs, such as Poodles, Cockers, and small Terriers, don’t have the proper mechanism for draining the tears out of the lachrymal gland (tear duct). The excess tears spill down the lower eyelid causing unsightly staining. Trimming hair around the eye, keeping the eye clean, and using a tear stain remover like Synergy Tear & Fur Stain Remover can all help. There are also supplements that you can add to your dog’s daily food such as Angels’ Eyes Tear-Stain Eliminator for Dogs and Cats  that work from the inside out!  Just a pill a day and the stains go away! )I found this hard to believe at first, but it really does work!)

For all dogs: Remember to wipe just the outside of the eye. If the eye itself needs cleaned, you can get an eye wash like Eye Clear that is meant just for dogs. Never wipe the eye itself.  You could scratch the cornea and cause more damage. Just use a cloth soaked in warm (not hot) water and gently wipe the outside of the eye.  Many dogs with protruding eyes, such as Pekingese, Pugs, and Boston Terriers may need eye drops.  Their eyes are more exposed to the elements, and so they may be more prone to getting dirt, dust and bacteria in their eyes.  Don’t use human eye drops, use drops that are specially made for dogs such as Pet Vision Lubricating & Cataract Eye Drops.  You can also canine eye drops at your local pet store, or you can ask your vet to recommend something. 

Note: If your dog seems to be tearing excessively and is constantly wet under the eyes or if you notice unusual redness or swollen areas in or around the eye, you need to consult your vet.  If you notice a cloudy-ness in your dog’s eyes, he/she may be developing cataracts.  Please check with your vet to see what your options are.