Conjunctivitis in Dogs Dubai: Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention Guide

What is conjunctivitis in dogs?

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the protective membrane lining your dog’s eyelids and covering the eye’s white portion. In Dubai, this condition is primarily triggered by bacterial infections, allergic reactions to regional pollen (particularly during February-April and October-November), and environmental irritants such as sand particles and dust storms.

Unlike human conjunctivitis, most forms in dogs are non-contagious. However, some infectious varieties can spread between dogs, making prompt diagnosis essential.

Additional Dubai-specific causes include dry-eye syndrome from constant air conditioning, chemical irritation from swimming pools, and sand exposure during shamal winds.

Symptoms

Watch for these key signs of conjunctivitis:

• Eye discharge: ranging from clear to yellow or green
• Pink or red colouration of the conjunctiva
• Pawing or rubbing at the affected eye
• Frequent blinking or squinting
• Swelling around the eye area
• Increased tearing when moving between air-conditioned rooms and outdoor environments
• Crusty buildup around the eyes after outdoor activities

Both eyes are usually affected, though sometimes it’s just one. If symptoms persist beyond 24 hours, consult your veterinarian.

Are some dogs more at risk than others?

Any dog can develop conjunctivitis, but certain factors increase the risk.

Higher-risk breeds:

• Certain breeds are prone due to genetic conditions like dry eye, allergic conjunctivitis, or cherry eye: Shar-Peis, English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Great Danes, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Hounds.
• Brachycephalic (short-faced) breeds have protruding eyes susceptible to wind-borne irritants and trauma: French Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus.

Age Factors:

• Elderly dogs
• Puppies: poorly developed immune defences, accident-prone!

Risks in Dubai:

• Dogs spending significant time outdoors during sandstorms
• Pets with existing allergies
• Dogs who swim in chlorinated pools

How do vets diagnose conjunctivitis?

• Eye check: The vet inspects your dog’s eyes and the surrounding structures/skin.
• Detailed exam: Using a special light and magnifying tool (ophthalmoscope) to check deeper eye structures.
• Cornea test: Applying some drops of Fluorescein dye, which highlights scratches or damage on the eye’s surface.
• Checking tear production: A ‘Schirmer tear test’ measures tear production to detect dry eye.
• Checking pressure inside the eye: ‘Tonometry’ checks for glaucoma or other serious pressure-related issues.

Advanced diagnostics

Vets will sometimes take samples from the eye to send to a laboratory for special testing:

• Bacterial culture and sensitivity: checking for bacterial infection and identifying the most effective antibiotic for targeted treatment
• Cytology: checking for abnormal cells
• Allergy testing: recurrent or chronic (long-lasting) conjunctivitis may be associated with food and environmental allergies
• Virus testing
• Blood samples: Occasionally necessary for persistent and complex cases

Some dogs may require sedation for thorough examination, particularly if a foreign object is suspected.

Recommended products

For managing conjunctivitis at home:

Cleaning solutions:

• Sterile saline
• Veterinary eye wipes
• Preservative-free artificial tears for air-conditioned environments

Protection:

• Buster collars to prevent self-trauma
• Dog sunglasses for breeds with prominent eyes during outdoor activities

Environmental aids:

• Air purifiers and humidifiers to counter dry air from constant air conditioning

We recommend speaking with your Dubai veterinarian before introducing any new products at home.

Vet treatment for conjunctivitis in dogs

Treatment of conjunctivitis varies by underlying cause.

Bacterial conjunctivitis:

• Antibiotic eye drops or ointments, applied 2-4 times daily
• Oral antibiotics for severe cases

Allergic conjunctivitis:

• Antihistamine eye drops
• Topical steroid eye drops, under veterinary supervision
• Prescription medicine to control itching

Environmental irritation:

• Lubricating eye drops to gently flush irritants from the eye
• Anti-inflammatory medication for comfort

How to care for a dog with conjunctivitis at home

You can support your pet’s recovery by providing extra care alongside your veterinary surgeon’s treatment plan.

Daily care:

• Gently clean your dog’s eyes with sterile saline 2-4 times daily, or when discharge builds up. DIY saline solution: Boil one cup of water, add one teaspoon of salt, and cool completely before use.
• Apply warm compresses for 5-10 minutes.
• Remove accumulated discharge with a clean cotton pad.

Environmental management:

• Limit outdoor exposure during sandstorms.
• Maintain regular grooming and keep long hair out of the eyes.
• Clean air conditioning filters frequently.

Cautions:

• Never use human eye drops without veterinary approval.
• Always wash your hands before and after applying or administering your dog’s treatment.
• Use a cone collar consistently until the problem has settled completely.

How to help prevent your dog from getting conjunctivitis

Daily care:

• Clean your dog’s eyes regularly to remove dirt and debris.
• Protect eyes from sand, dust and other irritants.
• Keep living spaces clean and well-ventilated, with good air filtration.
• Watch for early signs of eye irritation, redness, or discharge.

Seasonal considerations:

• Limit outdoor exposure when the pollen count is high to reduce irritation.
• Rinse eyes after beach visits to remove sand and salt residue.
• Adjust indoor humidity to keep eyes comfortable in dry or air-conditioned environments.

Long-term strategies:

• Schedule veterinary check-ups every 6–12 months.
• Manage underlying allergies that may worsen eye issues.
• Keep vaccinations up to date to support overall health.

When to worry

Contact a vet immediately if your dog develops:

• Severe sustained squinting
• Clear signs of pain: head pressing, intense pawing, whimpering
• Sudden vision changes: bumping into things
• Respiratory symptoms: including panting and wheezing/noisy breathing

Schedule a prompt veterinary consultation if your dog:

• Shows no improvement after 3-4 days of treatment
• Develops worsening symptoms despite medication
• Suffers from recurring episodes of conjunctivitis

Worried about your pet’s eyes? Book a checkup or emergency appointment at Modern Vet Hospital in Dubai. Their experienced team can diagnose eye problems, treat conjunctivitis, and provide ongoing care tailored to your pet’s needs. From routine eye exams to urgent treatment, Modern Vet Hospital is your trusted clinic in Dubai for attentive, compassionate care.