Neapolitan mastiffs, English bulldogs and flat-faced crossbreeds such as puggles are at an increased risk of contracting cherry eye compared to other breeds, according to new research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC).
The condition, which results in the appearance of a large pink mass in the corner of a dog’s eye, is a result of the gland on the inner side of the third eyelid prolapsing, becoming red and swollen and covering part of the eye. If left untreated, the condition can cause discomfort and lead to complications such as dry eye, conjunctivitis and eye ulceration, and often requires surgery.
The RVC says its study was the largest exploration of cherry eye in dogs in the world. The research team followed veterinary health records of 905,553 dogs for a year and identified that one in five hundred (1,802) dogs were affected by this condition. However, some breeds were shown to be at much higher risk.
Breeds showing significantly high proportions of dogs affected with cherry eye each year include Neapolitan mastiffs at 4.9%, English bulldogs at 4.8%, puggles (pug x beagle) at 2.1% and jugs (Jack Russell terrier x pug) at 1.2%.
Dogs aged less than one year old were found to be at greatest risk of contracting cherry eye. The breeds with the lowest risk included German shepherd, West Highland white terrier, and English springer spaniel.
Dr Minna Mustikka, senior veterinary ophthalmology resident at the RVC Queen Mother Hospital for Animals and co-author of the paper, said: “Cherry eye, if left untreated, may lead to other chronic eye problems, necessitating even lifelong medications and in worst case scenario, resulting in painful and potentially sight threatening complications. Raising awareness of this condition and its frequency in flat faced breeds is essential.”
