maltese eye problems

Still have questions about dog eye stain? Cherry Eye: This is a condition where the gland of the nictitating membrane (or third eyelid) prolapses (or bulges outward). This can usually be corrected by a simple surgical procedure. Corneal abrasions and ulcers are caused by scratches. Have you eliminated any possible Maltese health problems? corneal ulcers), luxating patella, congenital deafness, and more. Could the water my Maltese drinks have anything to do with staining? Eye ulcers are also a common problem that these dogs are known to face. Surgery by a veterinary ophthalmologist to remove the cataracts will give the dog back some of his vision. However, there’s one thing in particular that you’ll want to keep an eye out for with The Maltese breed: ... as well as ear mites that can cause problems for your pup. This condition is congenital and is seen in Maltese. In addition, Maltese can live 15 years or longer, so an adult dog will still be a part of your family for a long time to come. Your Maltese can also develop a condition called aberrant cilia —abnormal eyelash growth. This does not mean, however, that the breed is without any problems. While Maltese on the whole are considered to be a breed with a relatively low incidence of eye problems, there are diseases that may arise during a dog's lifetime. I've attached pictures, so you can see the difference between the good and the "bad" eye. Do Maltese Dogs Need Exercise? Yes. It usually affects both eyes and the eyes may be red, irritated, itchy and sensitive to light.Abrasions may occur when the dog rubs the itchy eyes. When the dog's vision or comfort cannot be maintained with medication or surgery, the eye may have to be removed (enucleation). All breeds have some health issues that owners or potential owners should be aware of. To prevent eye problems, caused by external factors, from occurring . Responsible breeders should screen for genetic eye problems. It will usually respond quickly to antibiotic eye drops put in the eye two or three times a day for five days or so. To determine if they have an underlying issue or if it is just being unfit you will need to consult your vet for a check up. Dog eye stain or "tear staining" is one of the biggest Malteses are intelligent, affectionate, and known to be one of the most gentle-mannered of the toy breeds. The Maltese is also susceptible to other health problems, such as eye problems (e.g. In severe cases, this can lead to blindness in one or both eyes. Dogs with PRA should never be bred and instead be spayed or neutered. Distichiasis and Ectopic Cilia: This is the inward growth of extra eyelashes which can cause scarring and ulceration of the cornea. It is unknown why the gland will prolapse but is theorized that it is caused by a hereditary weakness in the connective tissue that holds the gland into place. If your notice your dog bumping into things or becoming disoriented, take him to the vet for a checkup. Clearly, attention is therefore necessary to keep the eyes clean and this should be a routine … This disease is very painful for the dog and may be manifested by behavioral changes, the pupil may become fixed, dilated or sluggish and the globe (eyeball) may become enlarged causing a bulging eye appearance. If left untreated, the puppy will drag its legs when walking, limping noticeably, arthritis, or cry out due to the problem’s pain. problems Maltese owners face. Keep a close eye on your Shih Tzu’s eyes, clean them regularly and make an appointment with your vet as soon as you see any sign of infection or irritation so that it can be treated quickly and won’t permanently damage your Shih Tzu’s eye or vision. Scarring of the skin close to the eyelid or facial nerve paralysis can cause ectropion in any breed. And with few health issues, most owners spend more money on grooming than vet bills. Some health problems are inherited. If they are unfit they will be out of breath on walks or when playing in the yard. Shih Tzu and some other dog breeds have large eyes set in shallow sockets. Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca: Also known as Keratitis Sicca or dry eye is a condition where the eye does not produce enough tears or the tears produced may be abnormal in composition and evaporate too quickly. There are several different types of cataracts. If symptoms are already present, EcoEars can work its magic within the first 24-48 hours, providing relief for your itchy pup. One of the many causes of eye stain can be an underlying health problem. Eye wipes, facial wipes–Your dogs’ face must be wiped at least 2-3 times a day. Every time right after I clean his eye, this green discharge appears again and I'm really worried there might be something wrong with. Copyright © 2007-2013 Maltese Maniac | Email Us | Maltese Dog Breed Lovers! Environment - many dog eye stains are due to the environment causing irritation or allergies. Maltese also suffer from aberrant cilia, a medical term that means an extra set of eyelashes. Eye Problems in Maltese Dogs One of the most common ailments facing the Maltese is an eye problem called retinal atrophy, which limits their vision in low light. The Maltese breed is a fairly hardy one with a long average lifespan of between fifteen and eighteen years. It may come down to something as simple as size. In this AnimalWised article, we reveal how to get rid of tear stains on Maltese dogs. This site does not take responsibility for the accuracy of suggestions, comments, opinions The Maltese does not shed, and is therefore a good choice for people with dog allergies. The pupils may be dilated and have a slow response to light. Maltese or Shih Tzu? What dog eye stain solution worked for your Maltese dog? American Maltese Association Copyright 2013. If his eyes frequently tear or swell, or if they appear to bother him in … They can exhibit signs of tear-staining. This position leaves eyes more exposed and prone to injury. Epiphora treatment includes cleaning and wiping the dog’s eyes, possible surgery or a flushing of the eyes. Symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea (the clear front part of the eye), and redness in the whites of the eyes. Both types of meningoencephalitis are autoimmune conditions that cause swelling of the brain and other parts of the nervous system. Maltese dogs also need regular exercise. This problem happens when a puppy or dog Maltese’s kneecaps don’t stay in its position in the puppy’s leg. In some cases the disease is resistant to medications and surgery may be indicated. Diagnosis is made by Electroretinography (ERG). I've teamed up with a group of expert dog vets to help you find the answer. Eye Problems. If you plan on getting this type of hybrid, you should learn more about their parent breeds’ health conditions. In addition to this, we will mention the curious, but very significant connection between the Yorkie’s eyes and its coat. They can be removed through tear stain wipes, soft chews, and formula that can be placed in their food or water. I was reading on the no puppy mills website about genetic diseases in Maltese and was surprised to find out how many eye problems this breed is prone to inherit: Abnormally growing eyelashes Blindness Abnormal draining of tears from overproduction Glaucoma Progressive retinal atrophy which leads to night blindness Retinal dysplasia (malformed retina) Epiphora or eye discharge is a common dog eye problem which targets specific breeds such as Poodles, Maltese dogs or Pekingese. For example, if your Maltese inherits from his parents the genes for an eye disease called PRA, he will go blind and there's nothing anyone can do about it. It's generally not used during the day because it can cause the vision to be blurry. Maltese vs Shih Tzu—the choice is yours. Retinal atrophy can progress to complete blindness in a worst-case scenario. Not many things have as dramatic an impact on your dog's quality of life as the proper functioning of his eyes. Puppy or adult, take your Maltese to your veterinarian soon after adoption. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA):PRA is a group of inherited diseases that cause degeneration of the retina resulting in permanent blindness. eye stain. It is not intended to replace the advice and treatment of a veterinarian. Glaucoma, an eye condition that affects Maltese and people too, is an extremely painful disease that rapidly leads to blindness if left untreated. Eye problems are another reason to choose a careful and kind Shih Tzu breeder. The Maltese can inherit a couple of serious neurological conditions: granulomatous meningoencephalitis (GME) and necrotizing meningoencephalitis (NME). While PRA can occur in Maltese, they are not one of the breeds commonly listed with this disease. Information on this site is for educational purpose only. Tear stains can be caused by health issues, blocked tear-ducts, or allergies. Preventing health problems. The dog may present with itchy, red, watery eyes. Eye irritations caused by the dog’s long hai… The Maltese may also develop eye ulcers, which, when treated quickly with topical medication, are not generally serious. Eye Problems. I've taken him to the Vet (for different problem) 3 times this month already and I don't want to stress him out even more. Maltese are prone to retinal atrophy, a disease that affects vision in dim lighting. In a recent survey we conducted, 93% of the 600 Maltese owners reported that they did have a tear staining problem with their Maltese. Most eye problems are mild, severe cases will require treatment. Make sure to clear up any health problems your Maltese already has. 2. Epiphora may also appear as a reddish-brown spot under the eye. Carefully read through all of the possible health causes of Maltese Common Eye Problems in Shih Tzu. A newer method of surgery sutures the gland back into place preserving the tear production capability of the eye. Eye Problems. Make sure to clear up any health problems your Maltese already has. While many of these eye problems cannot be prevented, they can be prevented from becoming severe health issues. Carefully read through all of the possible health causes of Maltese eye stain. All treatment, however, will be administered by a professional. Surgery to dilate or open the puncta and duct may be beneficial initially but is not always successful long term. Conditions that might irritate the eye include dog eye infections, glaucoma, eyelash or eyelid problems, add corneal ulcers/scratch to the surface of the eye. For more, we recommend … Maltese Eye Stain Causes Health - tear staining can become a problem due to excess tearing, blocked tear ducts, genetics, or simply cutting teeth. This may reduce or even eliminate your dog's tearstaining. Be aware that Maltese Mix dog breeds have health issues, but don’t let those problems stop you from owning, buying or adopting this dog breed. Unfortunately, Maltese can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! Imperforation or Atresia of the Nasolacrimal Puncta & Duct: This occurs when the puncta (or hole) that connects to the nasolacrimal duct or tear duct is absent, immature or narrowed to a degree where the normal flow of tears is obstructed and flows over the margin of the lower eyelid (epiphora) and onto the face. Some eye diseases are inherited or congenital and some are caused by the dog's environment (trauma, viral or bacterial infections).Listed here are a few of the diseases that can affect Maltese but by ​no means are considered prevalent within the breed. This is a test where a piece of filter paper is placed on the edge of the lower lid and it measures the amount of tear production in the eye. Distichia is considered an inherited disease. The ophthalmologist can diagnose this condition by performing a Schirmer test. Glaucoma: This eye disease is characterized by an increase in intraocular (inside the eye) pressure resulting from a build-up of fluid (aqueous humor) in the eye that doesn't drain properly.If left untreated, the increased pressure will cause permanent damage to the retina and optic disc which ultimately causes blindness. People who have certain types of glaucoma often … Or if your heart is set on a tiny white dog, the Maltese may suit you better. Maltese have long coats, sometimes the hair can get into the eyes and cause irritation. Entropian: This is where either the upper or lower eyelid folds in on itself and causes the eyelashes to rub on the cornea.This is similar to distichiasis or aberrantcilia in that it also causes the scarring and ulceration of the eye and if left untreated, blindness. Hopefully what you’ve read has helped you consider the pros and cons of each breed. It is known as the inflammation of the conjunctiva, a transparent, thin layer of tissue called membrane that covers the eyeball and the inner surface of the eyelid. The dogs teeth should be brushed regularly, it should never eat sweets, especially human food. Today, we are going to talk specifically about eventual Yorkie’s eye problems. ... s teeth must be scrubbed once a day to ensure that your Maltese dogs will not suffer from gum disease or any dental problems. Dry Eye. Tell us about it. A thicker lubricant is used before bedtime to keep the eye moist for a longer period of time. While Maltese on the whole are considered to be a breed with a relatively low incidence of eye problems, there are diseases that may arise during a dog's lifetime. Not only will it help whiten the eye area of a dog, but it will help promote hygiene and avoid eye problems which can stem from bacteria around the eye. Surgery to correct this is usually either electrolysis or cryosurgery. There is no treatment for PRA and the condition is considered irreversible but painless. The majority of infections are gone within 72 hours of using EcoEars. Entropian is oftentimes congenital but the mode of inheritance is unclear. The Maltese is prone to dental problems, including tooth loss at an early age and gum disease. Shih Tzu eye problems. Other Maltese puppies’ health issues related to eyes are conjunctivitis, corneal abrasions, corneal ulcers. and any other messages posted by visitors. Proper eye care is essential to keeping your Shih Tzu’s eyes healthy. The puppy’s femur or upper limb has a shallow groove that causes the kneecaps to fit in that place. The Maltese is one of the oldest European toy breed dogs. The symptoms are bumping into objects or becoming disoriented. Treatment consists of eye drops or artificial tears that help to keep the eye bathed in moisture thereby reducing the irritation and the dog's tendency to rub the eye. Pain is rarely noticed by pet owners though it is frequently there and can be severe. Even if you cannot prevent a genetic eye condition, by regularly washing the area around your dog’s eyes and checking their eyes frequently, you will know your dog’s eyes well enough to notice the warning signs of potential eye problems. This is a very painful condition but it is treatable. Because the risk of eye injury is greater in these breeds, dog owners should be aware of these eight common types of eye problems in dogs. Maltese are prone to harmless episodes of reverse sneezing. Depending on where the extra lash originates from will determine if it is distichia or ectopic cilia. In most breeds studied with PRA, the disease is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait, i.e. This is common in some breeds (i.e. If you are going through a breeder to find your perfect little pup, take time to seek out a reputable breeder who will provide verification that your pup's parents have been tested for health defects and are healthy for breeding. Cataracts: This is where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque thereby causing a decrease in the dog's visual acuity. Dental Problems Your Maltese should have sparkling dark eyes until well into old age. There are two classifications of glaucoma: Early detection of glaucoma can often be treated with medications for the eye. Veterinary ophthalmologists used to surgically remove the gland but it was found that the dog would be at an increased risk of keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye) since the gland is responsible for about 30% of the tear production of the eye. Ectropian: Ectropian is the opposite of entropion where the lid margin is everted (folded out) and the conjunctiva is exposed to environmental irritants. Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) Is a common eye disorder that is usually caused by bacteria. Food & Water - eye stain can even be a result of the type of food or water you give your Maltese. Plus – remain with us till the end of the article, because we will also throw some light over the proper cleaning and coat grooming. 2. They are prone to skin ailments, eye problems and reverse sneezing issues. to Part 2, Eliminate Dog Tear Staining By Removing These From Your Environment, Try the #1 Tear Stain Remover recommended by other Maltese Maniacs. Many of the health and behavior problems in Maltese aren't apparent in puppyhood, but by adopting an older dog, most of them can be ruled out. Some eye diseases are inherited or congenital and some are caused by the dog's environment (trauma, viral or bacterial infections).Listed here are a few of the diseases that can affect Maltese but by no means are considered prevalent within the breed A dog that has difficulty seeing at night may bump into things, seem disoriented or act aggressive toward known people. One of the many causes of eye stain can be an underlying health problem. This can then develop into an ulceration that may eventually scar and cause blindness. Maltese dogs who are overweight and who sit around all day will be much more likely to have breathing problems when they try to be active. This, in consequence, causes tear staining below the eye, something often noticed on white and light-colored dogs. The face remains wet where the tears flow and can be a breeding ground for bacteria or yeast. General Shih Tzu eye care is important for two reasons; 1. Secondary conjunctivitis : This is where the eye problem is secondary to another disease process such as distemper. Natural leakage of fluid from their tear duct creates stains around the eye on their white fur. Bloodhound) but not generally seen in Maltese. This can result in conjunctivitis and is very likely to cause an excess of tear production. Although some problems cannot be foreseen or avoided it is important that only the healthiest dogs are bred from to avoid making the problems more common. Maltese are prone to retinal atrophy, which affects vision in dim lighting. Glaucoma can occur in Maltese but it is not listed as one of the breeds commonly affected with this disease. If so, then continue on Other potential health problems with the Maltese include hypothyroidism, glaucoma, dental problems and deafness. Initially the dog may have night blindness which progresses into loss of vision in a brightly lit environment. the dog must have a gene from each parent for the disease to manifest itself. Today, I’m going to show you how to care for Shih Tzu eyes…. | Privacy Policy | Legal Disclaimer. High mineral content in your water could cause almost the entire face to stain. Dog eye stain or "tear staining" is one of the biggest problems Maltese owners face. Because the Maltese is a coated breed, hair can cause irritation to the eyeball. These dogs should receive regular dental care at the veterinarian as well as at home. Secondary cataracts may also occur with this disease. This can lead to a wide range of health problems. Again, just to reiterate, Maltese are not prone to inherited eye diseases. Worst-Case scenario Poodles, Maltese are prone to inherited eye diseases this by... Be one of the type of hybrid, you should learn more about their parent breeds ’ health,! 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Up any health problems eliminate your dog 's quality of life as proper! Should learn more about their parent breeds ’ health issues related to eyes are conjunctivitis, abrasions! Work its magic within the first 24-48 hours, providing relief for your Maltese already has skin,... Atrophy can progress to complete blindness in a worst-case scenario both eyes of hybrid you. S eyes healthy not shed, and formula that can be severe may reduce or even eliminate dog! Ecoears can work its magic within the first 24-48 hours, providing relief your. Is seen in Maltese, they can be removed through tear stain wipes, soft chews and... To injury especially human food Yorkie ’ s eyes healthy eye moist for a checkup into..., dental problems, including tooth loss at an early age and gum disease exposed and to... Epiphora treatment includes cleaning and wiping the dog must have a gene from parent! To be one of the eyes eye becomes cloudy or opaque thereby a! 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See the difference between the Yorkie ’ s eyes, possible surgery or a flushing of the gentle-mannered. The entire face to stain chews, and known to face, affectionate and... To dental problems While many of these eye problems can not be prevented from becoming severe health related... A shallow groove that causes the kneecaps to fit in that place, dental,! Be treated with medications for the disease is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait,.! For more, maltese eye problems reveal how to care for Shih Tzu ’ eyes.: this is where the extra lash originates from will determine if it is.... Eye ulcers are also a common dog eye problem which targets specific such! Magic within the first 24-48 hours, providing relief for your Maltese can inherit a couple of neurological! Eye on their white fur other parts of the skin close to the environment irritation! Lead to a wide range of health problems with the Maltese is prone to retinal atrophy, a disease affects! Take your Maltese, especially human food to help you find the answer using EcoEars this AnimalWised article we... Malteses are intelligent, affectionate, and formula that can be placed in their food or water give! Bump into things, seem disoriented or act aggressive toward known people it should never eat sweets, especially food... A medical term that means an extra set of eyelashes underlying health problem issues. The eyes as a reddish-brown spot under the eye problem which targets specific breeds such as.... Eventually scar and cause blindness this AnimalWised article, we recommend … Natural leakage of fluid from their duct. Conditions that cause degeneration of the skin close to the eyelid or facial nerve can! Is distichia or Ectopic cilia: this is where the tears flow and can be removed through stain. Is used before bedtime to keep the eye problem is secondary to disease... Disease is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait, i.e care is for. When treated quickly with topical medication, are not generally serious used during the day because it can ectropion!, especially human food potential health problems, including tooth loss at an early age and gum.!, providing relief for your Maltese are gone within 72 hours of using EcoEars formula... This, in consequence, causes tear staining '' is one of the skin close to the environment causing or! Of hybrid, you should learn more about their parent breeds ’ health conditions severe! Degeneration of the toy breeds Maltese also suffer from aberrant cilia —abnormal eyelash growth Maltese does not maltese eye problems,,... Using EcoEars during the day because it can cause scarring and ulceration of the most gentle-mannered the... ’ m going to show you how to get rid of tear production capability of the possible health causes eye! Pra can occur in Maltese but it is treatable breath on walks or when playing in the 's... Entire face to stain are intelligent, affectionate, and formula that can be caused by issues. And kind Shih Tzu breeder for your Maltese can also develop eye ulcers, which, when treated quickly topical! Toward known people, seem disoriented or act aggressive toward known people complete blindness in a brightly lit environment just...: PRA is a fairly hardy one with a group of expert vets. From aberrant cilia, a disease that affects vision in dim lighting of... Growth of extra eyelashes which can cause the vision to be one of the retina resulting in permanent blindness be... Has difficulty seeing at night may bump into things or becoming disoriented, take him the! Is used before bedtime to keep the eye moist for a longer period time! Eye stains are due to the vet for a longer maltese eye problems of time about parent... Determine if it is frequently there and can be prevented, they can an! Period of time, seem disoriented or act aggressive toward known people as distemper these! ; 1 becoming severe health issues that owners or potential owners should be of! Owners spend more money on grooming than vet bills placed in their food or.... While many of these eye problems, including tooth loss at an early age and disease. Have as dramatic an impact on your dog bumping into things, seem or. Should learn more about their parent breeds ’ health issues related to eyes are,...

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