Cherry Eye in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and What Pet Owners Should Know

​What Is Cherry Eye in Dogs?
If you notice a red, pink, or swollen lump in the corner of your dog's eye, your dog may have a condition commonly called cherry eye.

Cherry eye occurs when the gland associated with a dog's third eyelid, also called the nictitating membrane, becomes displaced or prolapses. The gland typically appears as a smooth, reddish mass near the inner corner of the eye.

Although cherry eye may look alarming, it is usually not an emergency by itself. However, any new mass, redness, swelling, discharge, or irritation around a dog's eye should be evaluated by a veterinarian because several eye conditions can look similar.

What Does Cherry Eye Look Like in a Dog?
The most recognizable sign of cherry eye is a small, red or pink mass protruding from the inner corner of the eye.

Pet owners may notice:
A round red or pink lump in the corner of the eye
Swelling around the eye
Increased tearing
Eye discharge
Redness or irritation
Squinting or blinking more than usual
Pawing or rubbing at the eye
A visible third eyelid
Dryness or irritation of the eye

Cherry eye may initially appear in one eye, but some dogs can eventually develop the condition in both eyes.


What Causes Cherry Eye in Dogs?
The exact cause of cherry eye is not completely understood. It is generally associated with weakness or failure of the connective tissue that normally holds the third-eyelid gland in position.

Some dogs appear to have a genetic or breed-related predisposition.

Cherry eye is more commonly seen in younger dogs and certain breeds, including:
Bulldogs
Boston Terriers
Cocker Spaniels
Beagles
Shih Tzus
Lhasa Apsos
Pugs
Bloodhounds
Mastiffs

However, any dog can develop cherry eye.

Is Cherry Eye Painful for Dogs?
Cherry eye itself may not always be painful, but it can cause irritation and discomfort.

Because the affected gland contributes to the dog's tear film, leaving the condition untreated can potentially contribute to inadequate lubrication of the eye. Chronic irritation can also cause inflammation and other eye problems.

A dog that is squinting, rubbing its eye, keeping the eye closed, or showing obvious discomfort should be evaluated by a veterinarian promptly.

Can Cherry Eye in Dogs Go Away on Its Own?
Cherry eye sometimes temporarily moves back into position, but it commonly returns or remains prolapsed.

Do not attempt to push the gland back into place yourself. Manipulating the eye can cause additional irritation or injury.

A veterinarian can determine whether the mass is actually cherry eye or another eye condition and recommend the appropriate treatment.

How Is Cherry Eye Treated?
Treatment depends on the individual dog and the condition of the eye.

Veterinary Eye Examination
The first step is having a veterinarian examine the dog's eye. The veterinarian may evaluate the third eyelid, tear production, cornea, and surrounding tissues.

This helps rule out other conditions that can cause a red or swollen eye.

Medication
In some cases, a veterinarian may prescribe medication to reduce inflammation or treat secondary irritation or infection.

Medication may help manage symptoms, but it does not necessarily correct the underlying prolapse.

Surgery
Surgical replacement of the prolapsed gland is commonly recommended when cherry eye persists.

The goal is generally to reposition and preserve the gland rather than remove it.

Preserving the gland is important because it contributes to tear production. Removing the gland can increase the risk of inadequate tear production and potentially contribute to dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca.

Your veterinarian can explain which surgical technique is most appropriate for your dog.

Should the Cherry Eye Gland Be Removed?
In most cases, simply removing the prolapsed gland is not considered the preferred approach because the gland plays an important role in producing tears.

Modern treatment generally focuses on repositioning and preserving the gland whenever possible.

Your veterinarian will determine the best treatment based on your dog's eye health and individual circumstances.

What Happens If Cherry Eye Is Left Untreated?
An untreated prolapsed gland can become increasingly irritated and inflamed.

Potential complications can include:
Chronic eye irritation
Inflammation
Reduced tear production
Dry eye
Corneal problems
Eye discharge
Recurring eye discomfort

Not every dog with cherry eye will develop these complications, but early veterinary evaluation can help protect your dog's long-term eye health.

When Should You Take Your Dog to the Veterinarian?
Contact your veterinarian if you notice a new lump, redness, swelling, or discharge from your dog's eye.

Seek prompt veterinary attention if your dog:
Is squinting or keeping the eye closed
Appears to be in pain
Is constantly rubbing or pawing at the eye
Has significant swelling
Has thick or excessive discharge
Has a cloudy or bluish-looking cornea
Has suffered an injury to the eye
Suddenly appears to have vision problems
Has a rapidly worsening eye condition

Eye problems can progress quickly, so it is better to have an unusual eye change examined rather than assume it is harmless.

Can You Prevent Cherry Eye in Dogs?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent cherry eye because genetics and the dog's individual anatomy can play a role.

However, pet owners can help protect their dog's eyes by:
Scheduling regular veterinary examinations
Keeping the hair around the eyes properly groomed
Avoiding exposure to irritants
Preventing dogs from rubbing or scratching their eyes
Seeking veterinary care when eye abnormalities appear
Following veterinary instructions after treatment or surgery

Protect Your Dog's Eye Health
Seeing a bright red lump in your dog's eye can be frightening, but cherry eye is a treatable condition. The most important thing is recognizing the signs and having your dog's eye evaluated by a veterinary professional.

Never ignore persistent redness, swelling, discharge, squinting, or changes in the appearance of your dog's eye. Prompt veterinary attention can help identify the problem and protect your dog's vision and comfort.

If you suspect your dog has cherry eye, contact your veterinarian for an examination and personalized treatment recommendations.