Is my dog going blind? 5 signs to watch out for

From a sudden injury to old age or diseases such as diabetes and glaucoma, your dog’s eyesight can be affected by many things

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Have you noticed a difference in the way your dog behaves or interacts with people and other dogs? They may be having problems with their eyesight.

There are a number of reasons why blindness in dogs can become an issue, especially as they get older. But what are the signs to look out for – and how can you help?

How to tell if your dog is going blind

The onset of blindness is often gradual, making it harder for owners to spot. Plus, your dog’s acute sense of smell and hearing will compensate for a loss of vision – so it’s even more important to be aware of the early signs of blindness in dogs.

1. Changes in behaviour

Is your dog barking and growling more than usual, or perhaps acting afraid when approached? Alternatively, you may have noticed them becoming overly clingy.

Likewise, your dog may be anxious when going up or down stairs, or when approaching new surroundings. Keep an eye on them when they jump up or down from chairs and sofas at home – do they seem hesitant? These can all be signs of dwindling vision.

2. Bumping into things and slowing down

Your dog may seem clumsier, or perhaps acting more confused or unsure of familiar spaces.

They may start walking more slowly than usual, or have a more cautious approach when moving about the house or out on a walk. They also might be apprehensive about going out for walks at night.

3. Changes in the appearance of their eyes

Have you noticed your dog has stopped making eye contact with you? Take a closer look at their eyes – the appearance may have changed, with white spots appearing or pupils not responding to light. Also, look for redness and swelling, and milky or cloudy eyes.

4. Trouble finding their toys or bowls

Does your dog seem to be sniffing out their bowls and toys, rather than approaching them in the usual way?

5. Lack of energy

If your dog has become more lethargic or is showing a lack of interest in playing, this could also be a sign that something’s up.

If you’ve noticed any of this behaviour in your dog, it’s best to seek advice from your vet. If you have Petplan dog insurance, you can log into your My Petplan account and utilise Pet Expert Chat, our video vet service which allows you to get veterinary, behaviour and nutrition advice 24/7.

How to help a dog experiencing sight loss

Dogs usually cope well with a gradual loss of sight and can lead long, happy lives if they have no other health issues – but there are certainly things owners can do to help.

Don’t change their environment

From the placement of furniture to where their food and water bowl sit, keep everything in its usual place so that your dog knows how to navigate rooms. Make sure pathways through the house are always clutter-free, removing sharp edges and any possible hazards.

Dog-proof your home

Use baby gates at staircases, or consider textured mats at the top and bottom of stairs to alert your dog to a change in flooring. Always protect the space around fireplaces.

Keep talking

Your blind dog will know where you are by the sound of your voice. You might also want to take time to teach your dog new verbal directions such as ‘left’ or ‘right’ to help them get around.

Be their eyes outside the house

During walks, help your dog navigate obstacles. Make your garden a safe and fun environment for them to play, too.

Keep the lead on during walks

Always supervise interactions with other dogs, as your dog won’t be able to pick up on the usual body language and signals dogs send to each other. Stick to usual routes that your dog knows, and consider getting a special collar or lead that tells others your dog is blind.

Ring a bell

A small bell from a cat collar attached to your jacket means your dog will always know where you are. If you have another dog, you can attach a bell to their collar, too. In the house, use bells or chimes on doors to avoid unexpected anxiety when someone arrives.

Purchase new toys

Take time to find new ways to interact with your dog and help them have fun. Throw a ball with a bell inside to make it easier for them to chase after, and play scent-based games by hiding their favourite treats in the house and garden for them to sniff out. Enrichment activities are a great way for you and your blind dog to bond and build trust.