Droopy Dog Eyelids (Ectropion): Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Droopy eyes can give dogs a soulful, wise or sad appearance. For certain breeds, especially those with loose or wrinkly skin, this characteristic is part of their charm. But for some dogs, droopy eyelids indicate ectropion, a condition that can lead to discomfort or eye health problems. If your dog has ectropion, the condition can be treated to help restore comfort and preserve their vision. 

What Is Eyelid Ectropion in Dogs?

Ectropion is a condition that causes a dog’s lower eyelid to roll outward, exposing the inner eyelid surface and conjunctiva — the pink tissue lining the inside of the eyelid — leaving it vulnerable to irritation, dryness and infection. While slightly droopy eyelids may be normal for some dogs and may not cause problems, chronic eye issues and discomfort can result if the lid turns out too far.

Common Causes of Ectropion in Dogs

Most dogs with ectropion are born with it, due to longer-than-normal lower eyelids. Breeds prone to this condition often have loose, sagging facial skin and long, floppy ears.

Occasionally, ectropion develops later in life because of scarring or inflammation around the eyes, facial nerve problems or sagging skin related to normal aging. 

Dog breeds prone to ectropion

Ectropion is an uncommon problem in dogs overall, but the following breeds are more likely to have the condition:¹

• Basset hounds
• Clumber spaniels
• Great Danes
• Neapolitan mastiffs
• Saint Bernards

Symptoms of Ectropion in Dogs

Dogs with ectropion have a distinct appearance. The most noticeable sign is a drooping lower eyelid, which may make the pink conjunctiva lining the eyelid visible. 

Conjunctiva exposure can lead to other symptoms, including:

• Pawing at the face
• Redness or swelling of the conjunctiva
• Squinting or frequent blinking
• Tearing or mucous buildup

Untreated ectropion may lead to chronic conjunctival inflammation (conjunctivitis), scratches or abrasions on the eye surface (corneal ulcers) or vision problems in severe cases. If your dog has droopy eyelids with accompanying signs of irritation, schedule a visit with your veterinarian.

Diagnosing Ectropion in Dogs

A diagnosis of ectropion in dogs begins with a physical exam. Your veterinarian will perform a complete eye examination, including an assessment of the shape and position of your dog’s eyelids. The diagnosis is usually straightforward based on the dog’s appearance.

To check for complications or secondary eye conditions, your vet may recommend additional eye tests, including:

• Fluorescein stain test to check for corneal ulcers or scratches
• Schirmer tear test to measure tear production and rule out dry eye

Once your vet diagnoses ectropion and determines the extent of your pup’s condition, they can recommend an individualized treatment plan.

How to Treat Ectropion in Dogs

Treatment for ectropion depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, daily home care is often enough to keep the eyes comfortable. In severe cases, your veterinarian may recommend surgery.

Non-surgical options

In most cases of ectropion, non-surgical management is sufficient. Since droopy eyelids can cause the eyes to dry out and collect irritating debris, home care focuses on keeping the eyes clean and moist. Management includes:

• Applying lubricating eye drops or ointment several times per day
• Rinsing daily with a sterile eye wash
• Treating inflammation or infections with topical eye medications

These simple medical management and home care strategies are effective for most dogs with mild ectropion. 

Surgery

Surgery is not typically necessary for ectropion, but it can help dogs with severe cases. In one study, only around 4% of affected dogs included needed surgical correction.¹ However, your veterinarian may recommend ectropion surgery if your dog has:

• Dry eye
• Ectropion that occurs with entropion (“diamond eye”)
• Repeated infections or corneal damage

Your primary veterinarian can perform surgery in straightforward cases, or they may refer you to a veterinary ophthalmologist for specialist care. During surgery, the operating veterinarian removes a wedge of tissue from the eyelid margin and sutures the edges to shorten the eyelid’s length.

How Much Does It Cost to Treat Ectropion in Dogs?

Medical therapy for ectropion usually includes periodic eye exams and over-the-counter or prescription medications. The table below shows the national average costs* associated with eye care in dogs.²

The cost of ectropion surgery can vary widely based on where you live, the severity of your pet’s condition and whether a clinic, general practitioner or board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist performs the procedure.

Preventing Ectropion in Dogs

Since ectropion is typically a condition that dogs are born with, there’s not much you can do to prevent it. If you have a dog with ectropion or a breed prone to the condition, you can take simple steps at home to avoid complications, including:

• Addressing eye problems promptly
• Keeping the eyes and face clean
• Monitoring your dog’s eyes regularly for signs of irritation or infection
• Working with your veterinarian to manage your dog’s eye health

Breeders should avoid breeding dogs with ectropion to help prevent problems in the puppies. If you plan to adopt a dog breed prone to eyelid issues, talk to the breeder about their health screening protocols.

Supporting Your Dog’s Eye Health

Droopy eyelids can give your dog an endearing appearance, but for some, ectropion can cause discomfort or eye health issues. Knowing what’s normal for your dog, performing diligent home care and working closely with your veterinarian can help ensure your dog’s eyes stay healthy for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eyelid Ectropion

For more information on ectropion, here are answers to some questions pet owners commonly ask.

CareCredit Credit Card Financing for Dogs

The CareCredit credit card provides a convenient way to pay for your dog's vaccinations and other health and wellness expenses, including exams, medications and products at providers in the CareCredit network.** Continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App. You can find a provider on the go, manage your CareCredit account and easily access the Well U blog for more great articles, podcasts and videos. Use our Acceptance Locator to find a veterinarian that accepts CareCredit to help keep your pet healthy and happy for a lifetime of love.

In addition to pet care, you can also use your CareCredit credit card for dentistry, cosmetic, vision, hearing, health systems, dermatology, pharmacy purchases, spa treatments and so much more within the CareCredit network. How will you invest in your health and wellness next?

Author Bio

Angela Beal, D.V.M., has more than 20 years of experience as a veterinarian. Leveraging her background in private practice and academia, she uses her passion for writing to convey information to pet owners to help them keep their pets healthy and happy.