Blind Dog: Causes, Treatment and Best Care (2025)

In this Waggy's blog, we explore how to manage blindness in dogs, a condition that affects many canines, especially in their older years. Discover the main causes of vision loss, how to spot the first symptoms, and what treatments can help improve their quality of life. Plus, we share practical strategies and tips for caring for your blind dog, adapting their environment and using products that promote their well-being. If you're looking for expert advice on how to improve your dog's life, this article is for you!

Why can a dog go blind? Causes

A dog can go blind for a number of reasons, some of the most common include:

1. Eye diseases

• Cataracts : Opacity of the lens that can partially or completely affect vision.

• Glaucoma : Increased pressure in the eye, causing damage to the optic nerve.

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) : Gradual degeneration of the retina that can lead to blindness.

• Corneal ulcers : Lesions on the cornea that, if left untreated, can affect vision.

• Retinal detachment : Can occur due to trauma, eye disease, or hypertension.
  

 

2. Systemic diseases

• Diabetes : Diabetes in dogs can cause cataracts and eventually blindness.

• Hypertension : May cause hemorrhages or retinal detachment.

• Infections : Some diseases, such as herlichiosis or leptospirosis, can affect vision.

3. Genetic factors

• Some breeds are more prone to eye diseases, such as the Cocker Spaniel (cataracts), the Poodle (progressive retinal atrophy) or the Siberian Husky (uveitis).

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4. Traumas

• Bumps, bites or accidents can damage the eyes or optic nerve, resulting in vision loss.

5. Aging

• As dogs age, it's common for them to experience a decrease in mobility due to the natural wear and tear of joints and tissues. To help maintain their quality of life, it's essential to provide them with proper care that promotes their joint well-being. Products like Waggy's Mobility, calming dog treats , offer a natural formula designed to improve dogs' joint health, helping to maintain their agility and comfort in advanced stages of their life.

If a dog shows signs of vision loss, such as bumping into objects, instability when walking or changes in the appearance of its eyes, it is important to go to the veterinarian for a timely diagnosis and treatment.

Are there foods that cause blindness in dogs?

Yes, some foods can affect dogs' eye health and even contribute to vision problems if consumed in large quantities or over a prolonged period. Some of the main causes include:

Nutritional deficiencies:

• Lack of vitamin A : It is essential for eye health. A diet poor in this vitamin can cause vision problems and even night blindness.

• Poorly balanced homemade diet : Some homemade diets without veterinary supervision may not provide the essential nutrients for the dog's visual health.

You may be interested in: best food for dogs .

Toxic foods:

• Onion and garlic : They can cause damage to red blood cells and affect ocular circulation.

• Chocolate : Its theobromine content can cause neurological problems and affect vision in severe cases.

• Grapes and raisins : They can cause kidney failure, which also affects eye health.

• Xylitol Sweetener : May cause severe hypoglycemia, affecting brain and eye function.

Accidental poisoning:

Substances such as ethylene glycol (antifreeze) can cause blindness as part of severe poisoning.

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If you notice signs of vision problems in your dog, such as difficulty moving or changes in eye color, consult a veterinarian immediately. Maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding dangerous foods is key to eye health.

If your dog finds vet visits stressful, it may be helpful to look into alternatives for their well-being. Some owners consider supplements like Waggy's CBD Olive Oil for Dogs , but their use should always be supervised by a veterinarian.

 

Symptoms of blindness in dogs

Blindness in dogs can develop gradually or suddenly, depending on the cause. As those responsible for their well-being, it is essential to pay attention to certain changes in their behavior and appearance that could indicate problems with their vision.

One of the most obvious signs is that your dog starts to bump into furniture, walls, or other objects. If your dog used to be confident and now seems hesitant to walk or is fearful in new spaces, your dog may be losing his vision. It's also common for him to avoid going up or down stairs or become disoriented even in familiar places. To compensate for a lack of vision, many dogs rely more on their sense of smell and hearing, so you might notice that he follows sounds more intently or relies on his nose to recognize his surroundings.

Changes in the eyes can also be a clear sign of vision problems. If you notice that your dog's pupils are constantly dilated and do not react well to light, or if his eyes look cloudy, red or have discharge, it is advisable to visit the vet. Conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma or eye infections can cause these symptoms and, if not treated in time, lead to total blindness.

Another important sign is difficulty finding food or water. A dog with vision problems may take longer to locate his bowl or even avoid drinking water because he can't see the bowl well. You may also notice that he becomes more clumsy when moving around the house or gets frustrated when trying to reach objects that he used to play with easily.

Finally, changes in activity level can be a sign of visual impairment. Some dogs become more sedentary and lose interest in playing, while others may become anxious or irritable due to the insecurity they feel about not being able to see well. If you notice any of these signs, it is essential to go to a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis. Some causes of blindness can be treated if detected early, improving your pet's quality of life.

Treatment and care for a blind dog

Blindness in dogs can be partial or total, and its treatment depends on the cause. In some cases, if vision loss is detected early, there are medical or surgical options that can help restore vision or at least prevent it from getting worse. However, when blindness is irreversible, the most important thing is to provide our dog with a full and safe life through adaptations to its environment and special care.

• Treatment options depending on the cause : If blindness is caused by cataracts, your veterinarian may recommend surgery to remove the cloudy lens and restore vision. In cases of glaucoma, treatment often includes eye drops to reduce intraocular pressure, although in advanced situations it may be necessary to remove the eye to prevent pain. Eye infections can be treated with antibiotics or anti-inflammatories, while systemic diseases such as diabetes require proper monitoring to prevent further damage to vision.

• Care and adaptation at home : When blindness is irreversible, it is essential to help our dog adapt to its new condition. One of the first measures is to keep the furniture in its place so that it can memorize the layout of the home and move more safely. It is also advisable to avoid leaving objects on the floor that could represent an obstacle or risk of being hit. The use of smell and hearing becomes key to its orientation, so speaking to it in a calm and constant tone will give it confidence. You can also place rugs or different textures on the floor so that it associates certain areas with their location. In addition, toys with sounds or special fragrances can help it continue playing and stay active.

• Walks and outdoor safety : For walks, it is important to always keep your dog on a leash and talk to him to guide him safely. Avoid sudden changes in direction and warn him if there are steps or edges. If you have a garden, make sure there are no dangerous objects that he could trip over.

Although blindness can seem like a challenge, dogs are highly adaptable and can lead happy lives with proper care. With patience, love, and minor adjustments to their environment, your dog can continue to enjoy their daily life with confidence and well-being.

Can my dog ​​recover from blindness?

Recovery from blindness in dogs depends on the cause. If it is caused by cataracts, infections, or nutritional deficiencies, there are treatments such as surgery or medications that can partially or fully restore vision. However, if blindness is caused by degenerative diseases, advanced glaucoma, or severe trauma, it is usually irreversible. In these cases, even if vision does not return, dogs can adapt very well with proper care and continue to live full, happy lives.

How long does it take a blind dog to adjust?

The adjustment time for a blind dog varies depending on their personality, age, and the cause of their blindness, but on average it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Younger dogs tend to adjust more quickly, while older dogs may require more time and support. With stable routines, positive reinforcement, and adjustments at home, many dogs are able to move around confidently in a short time, using their sense of smell and hearing to orient themselves.

Positive reinforcement is essential to help a blind dog adjust to his environment and build his confidence. Using natural dog treats like Waggy's Bites, made with 100% natural ingredients and rich in high-quality protein, not only motivates your pet during training but also contributes to his overall health. Available in salmon and tuna flavors, these healthy bites are ideal for rewarding your dog while reinforcing desired behaviors.

 

Do dogs get depressed when they go blind?

Yes, some dogs may experience temporary depression after losing their vision, especially if the blindness occurs suddenly. They may become more withdrawn, lose interest in playing, or show signs of anxiety and insecurity. However, with patience, positive reinforcement, and adjustments to their environment, most dogs manage to regain their confidence and lead full lives using their other senses to navigate.

How long can a blind dog live?

The life expectancy of a blind dog is not significantly affected in many cases, as long as its overall health is maintained in good condition. With proper care, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary attention, a blind dog can live a full life and reach the same life expectancy as a dog that does not have vision problems, which is usually between 10 and 15 years, depending on the breed and overall health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, blindness in dogs can be a challenge for both them and their owners, but with the right care, many dogs can adapt successfully and go on to enjoy an active and happy life. The causes of blindness can vary, from eye diseases to systemic conditions, so it is essential to detect any signs in time to seek treatment. In the event that blindness is irreversible, positive reinforcement, environmental adaptation and specific care are key to their well-being. Products such as Waggy's Bites can be useful in motivating and reinforcing behaviours, ensuring that your dog maintains their confidence. With the right approach, your blind dog can live a life full of love, security and joy.