When is eye problems in a dog an emergency?

Call a vet straight away if: the eye is bulging out of the socket (a risk in pugs, shih tzus and other flat-faced breeds); a deep wound or something stuck in the eye.

When should my dog see a vet today?

Book a vet visit the same day if: red eye, or keeps the eye shut or squints; yellow or green discharge; the eye looks cloudy or blue; pawing at the eye or rubbing it on the floor.

Can I wait and watch at home?

Usually yes, for up to a day, if: small amount of clear discharge or tear staining; eye is open, not red, no pain. If anything changes or worries you, book a vet.

Can I give my dog human medicine?

No. Many human medicines, including paracetamol and ibuprofen, are poisonous to dogs and cats. Only give what a vet prescribes after examining your pet.

Can a vet see my dog at home in Pune?

Yes. Sniffi's vets visit homes across Pune, or you can book a quick teleconsult first. Call +91 91751 29919 or book online.

Dog Eye Discharge and Red Eyes: When to See a Vet

Updated 2026-10-05. General information, not a diagnosis.

Eyes can get worse quickly. A little clear tear staining is common in some breeds, but a red, painful or cloudy eye should be seen by a vet the same day.

Not sure how serious it is? Describe it in your own words and get an answer in a minute.

Check symptoms free

Call a vet now if

The eye is bulging out of the socket (a risk in Pugs, Shih Tzus and other flat-faced breeds)
A deep wound or something stuck in the eye

Call +91 91751 29919

Book a vet visit today if

Red eye, or keeps the eye shut or squints
Yellow or green discharge
The eye looks cloudy or blue
Pawing at the eye or rubbing it on the floor

Usually fine to watch at home for a day if

Small amount of clear discharge or tear staining
Eye is open, not red, no pain

Common causes of eye problems in dogs

Conjunctivitis from infection, dust or allergies
Scratches and ulcers on the surface of the eye
Dry eye
Eyelid and eyelash problems
Glaucoma and other eye diseases

Only a vet who examines your dog can tell which one it is.

What you can do right now

Gently wipe away discharge with a clean, damp cloth, a fresh one for each eye
Stop your dog rubbing the eye
Do not use human eye drops or ointments

Talk to a Sniffi vet

Pune's home vet service. Pick what suits you.

📞 Book a quick teleconsultA vet calls you back 🏠 Schedule a home visitA vet comes to your home

Questions pet parents ask

When is eye problems in a dog an emergency?: Call a vet straight away if: the eye is bulging out of the socket (a risk in pugs, shih tzus and other flat-faced breeds); a deep wound or something stuck in the eye.
When should my dog see a vet today?: Book a vet visit the same day if: red eye, or keeps the eye shut or squints; yellow or green discharge; the eye looks cloudy or blue; pawing at the eye or rubbing it on the floor.
Can I wait and watch at home?: Usually yes, for up to a day, if: small amount of clear discharge or tear staining; eye is open, not red, no pain. If anything changes or worries you, book a vet.
Can I give my dog human medicine?: No. Many human medicines, including paracetamol and ibuprofen, are poisonous to dogs and cats. Only give what a vet prescribes after examining your pet.
Can a vet see my dog at home in Pune?: Yes. Sniffi's vets visit homes across Pune, or you can book a quick teleconsult first. Call +91 91751 29919 or book online.

Also searched as: dog eye infection · dog red eye · kutte ki aankh se paani