Frenchies and other bulldog breeds are more exposed to eye problems as their shorter snouts cannot protect them as much from scratches and things that can get into them. Because their eyes are so vulnerable, it’s important to be aware of the dangers that your puppy might face and know how to act when there are warning signs.
In this article, we explain the five most common French Bulldog eye problems, and share how you can recognize and treat them effectively. We spend a lot of time looking at our puppies every day, so changes around the eyes are often one of the first things we notice. Redness, extra tearing, squinting or discharge may seem small at first, but with Frenchies we always prefer to check what’s causing it rather than wait too long, it’s time to visit the vet!
Key Takeaways
- French Bulldogs are prone to several eye conditions due to their facial structure.
- Common issues include watery eyes, cherry eye, dry eyes, and corneal ulcers.
- Regular cleaning, vet visits, and proper eye drops can prevent complications.
1. Watery eyes in French bulldogs
Some dogs simply produce more tear than others. If that’s the case with your Frenchie, you may notice brown tear stains under their eyes. This constant tearing discolors the fur, especially between the wrinkles. That is even more noticeable in white or light-colored Frenchies.
Besides being an aesthetic issue, excessive tearing can lead to health problems. Moist fur creates a perfect environment for bacteria, increasing the risk of eye infections.
Watery eyes are something we see quite often in Frenchies, so what we usually pay attention to is whether the tearing is normal for that puppy or whether it suddenly becomes much heavier than usual. A sudden change is always worth a closer look.
How to prevent tear stains
Luckily, this issue is easy to manage with regular cleaning. We recommend cleaning your Frenchie’s tear stains at least once a week.
You can use sanitizing wipes, but our top suggestion is to apply a 2% boric acid eye wash using a cotton pad. Whatever product you use around the eyes, make sure it is specifically suitable for eye-area use and follow your vet’s advice if your Frenchie already has irritation or another eye problem.
If you’d like to learn how you can clean you puppy’s tear stains properly, check out our video tutorial, where Tom, the breeding expert at TomKings, demonstrates the technique.
2. Inflamed eyes in French bulldogs
You can usually recognize eye inflammation by the redness in your Frenchie’s eyes. This may have several causes, from environmental irritants to illness. For example, if your Frenchie has a runny nose, sneezes or coughs frequently as well, they may have caught a cold and will need antibiotics prescribed by a vet.
The most common cause your puppy’s eyes might be inflamed is when something gets into them. Sometimes it is obvious, for example, during bath time if shampoo accidentally enters the eyes. In such cases, use antibiotic eye drops like Tobradex, which is available at most vets and pharmacies.
This is one reason we’re always very careful around the face during bath time. Frenchie eyes are quite exposed, so even something as simple as shampoo, dust or a tiny piece of debris can cause noticeable irritation.
When to visit the vet
If you’re unsure why your Frenchie’s eye might be inflamed, it’s very important to visit a vet as soon as possible. That’s because a damaged cornea may be made worse by using regular eye drops. Your vet will examine the eye under a microscope and recommend safe treatment. If there’s no damage, then it’s safe to use an eye drop.
Inflamed eyes may also produce white, yellow or green discharge. When we see squinting together with redness or discharge, that’s not something we would simply watch for several days. In these cases, an antibiotic eye drop is typically needed, but only after a vet has ruled out corneal damage!
3. Cherry eye in French bulldogs
French Bulldogs have naturally loose facial skin, which sometimes causes the mucous membrane around their eyes to become visible. This membrane is normally red due to its blood supply and isn’t a cause for concern on its own.
However, a common condition in bulldog breeds is cherry eye, which occurs when the third eyelid’s gland slips out of place. It’s usually very easy to spot: you’ll see a small, red, swollen lump in the corner of your Frenchie’s eye, similar in shape and color to a cherry.
Once you know what cherry eye looks like, it’s usually quite easy to recognize. We always tell families not to panic when they first see that red lump, but not to ignore it either.
Early treatment at home
As bad is it may look, cherry eye doesn’t usually cause any pain to you pup. If you notice and treat it early, a gentle massage can even help move the gland back into position. This should be done carefully and only if you’re confident about the method.
If you’re not confident doing this, we’d much rather have a vet show you what to do than keep touching an already irritated eye.
When to see a vet
If massage doesn’t work or your puppy starts rubbing the eye, take them to a vet, as they could easily damage the gland. Vets typically perform a quick surgery to attach the gland back in place using an invisible, absorbable suture, so it won’t need to be removed. Recovery is typically fast with antibiotic eye drops.
Some surgeries remove the cherry eye entirely, but this is not recommended. The third eyelid is crucial for tear production, so removing it can lead to chronic dry eyes, which may require lifelong care.
4. Dry eyes in French bulldogs
When a Frenchie has dry eyes, it means their tear glands aren’t producing enough moisture to keep the eyes lubricated. This condition may result from various causes, like medications, previous cherry eye surgery, or sleeping with their eyes open.
Dry eyes in Frenchies can lead to redness and irritation. If left untreated, it can even result in inflammation and further complications. It can be really painful for your fur baby, so you should treat it as soon as possible.
Treatment options
Our recommendation for dry eyes is using preservative-free artificial tears, which are available at most pharmacies. Apply 1-2 drops into each eye twice daily, or more often if you have the time (e.g. on weekends).
After 1–2 months, visit your vet to check your Frenchie’s tear production levels. If their eyes are back in the normal range, you can stop using the drops. Otherwise, continue as advised by your vet.
5. Corneal ulcer in French bulldogs
A corneal ulcer is one of the most serious and painful eye problem in Frenchies. It typically develops after an injury to the eye, chemical irritation (like shampoo), or as a complication of untreated dry eyes.
Your Frenchie may keep one eye closed or try to rub it frequently to relieve the pain. You might also see discharge or notice they’re avoiding light. These are all signs of possible corneal damage.
Why immediate care is critical
Corneal ulcers can worsen quickly and even cause permanent vision loss if not treated in time. That’s why it’s crucial to see your vet at the first signs of trouble.
Your vet will likely prescribe antibiotic eye drops, which you’ll need to apply multiple times a day. Follow the dosage carefully and keep a close eye on your Frenchie’s symptoms.
If you’d like to learn more about Frenchies, join our Facebook group called TomKings Frenchie Family to read our Frenchie parents’ experiences.
FAQ
Why do French Bulldogs have watery eyes?
Their facial structure makes them more prone to excessive tearing and tear staining.
Is cherry eye painful for French Bulldogs?
It’s usually not painful but can lead to complications if left untreated.
Can dry eyes in Frenchies be cured?
While often manageable with artificial tears, vet check-ups are necessary for long-term care.
What causes corneal ulcers in French Bulldogs?
Trauma, shampoo irritation, or untreated dry eyes are common causes.
Why are my French Bulldog’s eyes red?
Red eyes can be caused by irritation, allergies, infection, dry eye or an injury. If the redness persists or your Frenchie is squinting, see your vet.
Why are my Frenchie’s eyes goopy?
Eye discharge can come from irritation, allergies, dry eye or infection. Yellow or green discharge should be checked by a vet.
How do you treat gunky eyes in a French Bulldog?
Gently clean away discharge with a clean, damp pad. If it keeps returning or becomes yellow or green, have your vet examine the eye.
Are French Bulldogs prone to eye problems?
Yes. Their short muzzle and prominent eyes make French Bulldogs more prone to irritation, injury and several eye conditions.
What eye problems are common in French Bulldogs?
Common French Bulldog eye problems include watery eyes, cherry eye, dry eye, inflammation and corneal ulcers.
How do you treat French Bulldog eye irritation?
Mild irritation may improve after gently rinsing and cleaning the eye area, but persistent redness, discharge or squinting should be checked by a vet.
What eye drops are safe for French Bulldogs?
Use eye drops recommended by your vet. Preservative-free artificial tears may be suitable in some cases, but medicated drops should only be used after veterinary advice.
Can I give my French Bulldog eye drops without seeing a vet?
Not medicated eye drops. Some eye conditions can get worse with the wrong treatment, so it’s safest to have the eye checked first.
When should I worry about my French Bulldog’s eyes?
See a vet if your Frenchie is squinting, keeping an eye closed, rubbing it repeatedly, or has persistent redness, swelling, cloudiness or discharge.
How long does a dog eye infection last?
It depends on the cause and treatment. Many improve within a few days of proper treatment, but symptoms that persist or worsen need veterinary attention.
What can I use for my French Bulldog’s irritated eyes?
You can gently clean around the eye with a clean, damp pad. For eye drops or medication, ask your vet which product is appropriate.
The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies, or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article.
