Eye Care Tips for Small Dogs

Keeping Sochi's Eyes Healthy

Hey everyone! It’s Shay here, and today I wanted to talk about something that’s super important to me—keeping Sochi's eyes healthy. If you’ve got a small dog like Sochi (my sweet Shorkie!), you probably know that their big, expressive eyes are one of their cutest features. But those beautiful eyes need some extra TLC to stay in tip-top shape.

The Challenges of Small Dog Eye Care

One thing I quickly learned when I got Sochi is that small dogs, especially those with longer hair like Shorkies, can have a few challenges when it comes to their eye health. Their eyes are often more exposed, and their long fur can easily get in the way, causing irritation or even infections if not properly cared for. Plus, small dogs tend to have big, round eyes that are closer to the ground, which means they’re more likely to get debris in them while exploring.

Keeping Sochi's Eyes Clean

To keep Sochi's eyes healthy and comfortable, I make sure to clean them regularly. Every day, I take a few minutes to gently wipe around her eyes using a soft, damp cloth or a pet-safe eye wipe. This helps remove any buildup of discharge or debris that might be irritating her. It’s especially important to keep an eye on any tear staining, which can be more common in small breeds.

Another important part of Sochi’s eye care routine is keeping her fur trimmed. Her hair grows quickly and can easily poke into her eyes, which causes discomfort and makes her rub her face against furniture or her paws. I use a small pair of grooming scissors to trim the fur around her eyes, being extra careful not to get too close. When her eyes are free from irritation, she’s visibly happier—her playful energy really shines through!

Signs to Watch Out For

It’s also important to keep an eye out (pun intended!) for any signs that something might be wrong. If Sochi’s eyes look red, if she’s squinting a lot, or if there’s an unusual amount of discharge, I know it’s time to call the vet. Eye infections can develop quickly, especially in small dogs, so I always err on the side of caution when it comes to her eye health.

How Happy Eyes Make a Happy Sochi

When Sochi’s eyes are clean and healthy, she’s such a happy pup. There’s nothing like seeing her bright, clear eyes as she runs around the house or cuddles up for a nap. It’s amazing how much her mood changes when her eyes are comfortable—she’s more playful, more curious, and overall just more herself. I can tell that when her eyes are in good shape, she feels better, and that makes all the effort worthwhile.

Tips for Small Dog Eye Care

If you have a small dog like Sochi, here are some simple tips to keep their eyes healthy:

• Daily Cleaning: Use a soft cloth or pet-safe wipes to keep the area around their eyes clean.

• Trim the Fur: Keep the fur around their eyes short to prevent irritation.

• Regular Check-Ups: Watch for signs of redness, excessive tearing, or discomfort, and consult your vet if anything seems off.

Eye care is just one part of keeping our furry friends happy and healthy, but it’s an important one! Taking a few minutes each day to check on Sochi’s eyes has made a world of difference in her comfort and happiness. So, here’s to keeping those puppy eyes sparkling and bright!

S.W.