Blindness in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms and What To Do

Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee

Just like people, some dogs will face vision loss at some point in their lives. This may be a natural part of aging, but blindness in dogs can also be caused by disease or trauma. In fact, the condition of your dog's eyes often provides the first clue about an underlying health issue.¹

Because eyes are truly the windows to your dog's soul (and health), it's important to recognize the signs of vision loss so you can see a veterinarian immediately. Sometimes early treatment can restore your pup's vision. But even if it doesn't, blind dogs can still live happy, fulfilling lives with proper veterinary care and lots of love from their pet parents.

What Is Blindness in Dogs?

Dogs can experience different types of vision loss. Some dogs lose their vision gradually over time as they get older. Others may suffer a sudden onset of blindness that constitutes a medical emergency. This can be tougher for a pet to deal with because they don't have time to adjust. But with proper guidance and treatment, they can learn to thrive again.¹

Causes of Blindness in Dogs

Blindness can have a wide range of causes. Here's a look at the most common culprits.

Age-related

As dogs age, they may face a variety of conditions that can threaten their vision. Some develop cataracts. Senior dogs can also develop a condition that looks similar to cataracts (lenticular sclerosis), but this one doesn't hurt their vision. Your veterinarian can tell the difference.²

Older dogs are also more prone to glaucoma, which is increased pressure in the eye that can lead to blindness. They can also develop corneal endothelial degeneration (CED), which can be painful and require saline ointments or even a corneal transplant.³

Genetic conditions

Some dog breeds are more prone to vision issues than others:⁴

• Collies can develop an inherited condition called Collie eye anomaly.
• Golden Retrievers are prone to retina problems.
• Breeds like Beagles and Cocker Spaniels are more prone to glaucoma.³
• Breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, French Poodles, Welsh Springer Spaniels and Boston Terriers are more prone to cataracts.²

Injuries

Severe eye injuries can lead to blindness.⁴ For example, an animal scratch or even a bump into a sharp plant can leave an abrasion on your dog's cornea. Most heal fast, but deeper abrasions may lead to dog blindness, especially without treatment.⁵

Health issues, infections and diseases

A variety of health issues can cause blindness, such as:⁴

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)⁶
• Infections⁶
• Optic nerve disease
• Uveitis (eye inflammation)
• Tumors around the eyes
• Cancer⁶
• Dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca): This develops when your dog's eyes produce fewer tears. A variety of diseases cause it.³
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): A painless, inherited condition causing the retinas to slowly deteriorate, leading to blindness.¹
• Sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS): A fast-onset disease that causes the retinas to deteriorate, leading to total blindness in days or weeks.¹
• Retinal detachment
• Glaucoma¹
• Conjunctivitis: Also called pink eye, this rarely causes blindness unless it's a severe or untreated case.⁷
• Cherry eye: A prolapsed third eyelid that looks like a red mass in the corner of your dog's eye. Cherry eye doesn't cause blindness, but if untreated, secondary issues might.⁸
• Dogs with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts.²

Symptoms of Blindness in Dogs

Dogs can't tell you that their vision is suffering. But many telltale symptoms can point you to a problem that needs veterinary attention.

Physical signs of blindness

Signs of vision loss can vary depending on the cause:¹

• Cloudy eyes
• Swollen or inflamed eyes
• Pawing at the face
• Dilated pupils
• Slow reactions to bright light
• Yellow or green eye discharge (such as in cases of glaucoma)

Behavioral changes associated with blindness

Sometimes the first sign of vision loss is a change in your furry best friend's behavior:⁶

• Bumping into objects¹
• Sudden issues finding dishes or toys
• A normally confident dog becoming timid¹
• Changes in routine, like not reacting to squirrels or birds
• Not looking you in the eye
• Easily startled¹
• Reluctant to get off your bed or couch, or into your car
• Sudden aggression
• Confused or dazed¹

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you're even a little concerned about your dog's vision, see a veterinarian right away. Sometimes quick action is the only thing that can save a dog's eyesight.¹

Your veterinarian may use an ophthalmoscope to look into your dog's eyes. They may also use a tonometer to check eye pressure. Blood samples or a CT scan may be needed to check for underlying health conditions.⁴

Ultimately, your dog's treatment will depend on the cause of blindness. Cataracts can be surgically removed with few complications.² Severe dry eyes may need surgery or chronic medication to manage.³

If your dog's vision loss is permanent and the eye is causing pain, your veterinarian may recommend removing the eye.⁴

Prevention of Blindness in Dogs

Regular veterinary checkups to catch underlying health issues early is the best way to prevent blindness. And you can do your part at home by focusing on nutrition and activity. For example, keeping your dog active and at a healthy weight can minimize the risk of diabetes (a common cause for cataracts in dogs), protecting their vision in the long run.⁹

However, not all forms of vision loss can be fixed. But even in those situations, your veterinarian can recommend ways to manage the vision loss or treat associated pain, improving your dog's quality of life.⁹

Caring for a Blind Dog

Blind dogs can live long and happy lives. They just need a little extra loving care and supervision. Younger dogs may adjust to their new normal faster, while older dogs may take more time. Just be patient. Your dog may be fearful or aggressive at first, so they'll need your calm presence to comfort them.¹⁰

Ensuring a safe environment

The first thing you should do for a dog with vision loss is make their environment safer:¹⁰

• Use a baby gate to block off hazards like stairs, pools or fireplaces.
• Always stay with your dog when outside.⁶

• To reduce anxiety, keep the floor free of junk that your dog might bump into.

• Your dog may find comfort in sticking to the schedule they're familiar with. If you can, keep mealtimes, bedtimes and outings the same.
• Keep bowls and dishes in the same place and don't move the furniture around.
• If your pup loves being in a crate at night, keep that tradition.
• Consider adding a water fountain so your dog can use the sound to quickly find water.

Training and adaptation

Your dog may need some gentle retraining to adapt to their new normal. Your veterinarian can help you determine what approach is best.

If you have stairs that can't be avoided, you may need to cover them in nonslip fabric and reintroduce them slowly. Try placing a treat on a stair and slowly encourage your dog to explore one step at a time. Keep your hand on your dog's chest or abdomen for support.¹⁰

If your dog loves walks, fit them in a halo or bumper vest that extends a lightweight tube around their head to protect them from bumping into walls. These special devices for visually impaired dogs can help them "feel" their surroundings and protect them from running into things. You should also keep your dog on a short leash while walking.¹⁰

Enhancing other senses

Without vision, your dog will depend on other senses. Lean into that. Set up carpet runners around your house so your dog can navigate by feel.⁶ Sound machines or radios that stay in the same location can also help by providing an audio landmark. Wind chimes outside can do the same.¹⁰

Get toys that stimulate your dog's other senses, like puzzle toys with treats, snuffle mats, squeaky toys and scented bubbles.⁶ When you take out the toys, refer to them by specific names so your dog can learn those cues. These sensory toys can be especially helpful for dogs that become depressed or withdraw after vision loss.¹⁰

Socialization

Dogs with vision loss will also need to relearn socialization now that they're more easily startled. If you have other pets, have them wear collars with jingling tags or bells so they can't sneak up on your pup.¹⁰ You may want to talk to a veterinarian or pet trainer to learn the best socialization tactics.

Caring for a Blind Dog Is Rewarding

When it comes to blindness in dogs, proactive care is key. In some cases, vision loss can be alleviated with fast treatment. But if your dog still loses their vision, don't despair. Dogs are resilient and can bounce back, finding new ways to thrive. You'll simply need to give extra care and love to your furry best friend as they adjust. Caring for a blind pet can be rewarding, and your dog will pay you back with lots of love and appreciation.

Pets Best Is Here To Help

At Pets Best, our dog insurance plans can be customized for your pet's unique needs. In addition, Pets Best policyholders can speak to a veterinary expert anytime through a 24/7 Pet Helpline. This can be a big help when you have questions about your dog's vision.

Pets Best sources/citations

1. "Blindness in dogs — Signs & symptoms of vision problems," (5/2020), Carolina Veterinary Specialists in Charlotte, https://www.charlotte.carolinavet.com/site/charlotte-emergency-vet-blog/2020/05/25/blindness-in-dogs-vision-problems

2. "Cataracts in dogs," Courtney Barnes et al. (n.d.), VCA Animal Hospitals, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cataracts-in-dogs

3. "Common ocular conditions in geriatric pets," (11/2021), Veterinary Vision Center, https://veterinaryvisioncenter.com/common-ocular-conditions-in-geriatric-pets/

4. "Blindness in dogs," (9/2023), The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals, https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/symptoms/blindness-in-dogs

5. "Corneal ulcers: A pet owner's guide for treatment success," Angela Beal (1/2022), Today's Veterinary Practice, https://todaysveterinarypractice.com/pet-owner-resources/sentrx-corneal-ulcers-handout/

6. "Blind dog day," (8/2023), Good Friends Animal Hospital, https://goodfriendsanimal.com/blind-dog-day/

7. "Pink eye (conjunctivitis) in dogs: Symptoms & causes," Joshua Montgomery (12/2023), BetterVet, https://bettervet.com/resources/pet-conditions/pink-eye-in-dogs

8. "Eyelid protrusion (cherry eye) in dogs," Brittany Grenus (8/2022), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/eyes/c_multi_prolapsed_gland

9. "Dog vision loss: A comprehensive guide," (3/2024), Northwest Animal Eye Specialists, https://www.northwestanimaleye.com/site/blog/2024/03/29/dog-vision-loss

10. "Caring for a blind pet," Caryn E. Plummer (n.d.), ACVO Vision for Animals Foundation, https://www.visionforanimals.org/coping-with-a-blind-dog/