By Brittany Schlesener, DACVO
Short skull animal, or “brachycephalic,” breeds like Pugs, Boston Terriers, French Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, and Persian cats are beloved for their big, soulful eyes. But those same adorable features come with unique health challenges. Their eyes are more exposed and vulnerable to injury and disease.
Why Brachycephalic Dog Breeds Are at Higher Risk
Brachycephalic pets have:
- Shallow eye sockets → Eyes that protrude outward
- Incomplete eyelid closure → Poor tear distribution and rapid evaporation
- Abnormal eyelid anatomy → Extra folds and hairs rubbing the cornea
Common Eye Issues in Brachycephalic Dog Breeds
- Corneal ulcers – Scratches or wounds on the clear surface of the eye, often caused by trauma, the inability to protect the eye fully, or poor tear film health.
- Pigmentary keratitis – Brown pigmentation spreads across the cornea, often from chronic irritation, which can lead to blindness.
- Dry eye (KCS) – Inadequate tear production leads to inflammation, discharge, and discomfort.
- Proptosis – Because the eyes protrude, trauma can cause the entire eye to displace forward, entrapping the eyelids behind the globe and requiring emergency intervention.
What Owners Can Do
- Schedule regular veterinary eye exams
- Use artificial tear drops if recommended
- Avoid harsh play or rough handling around the face
- Watch closely for pawing at the face, squinting, eye redness or cloudiness
How Veterinary Ophthalmologists Help
Specialists can prescribe medications to protect the cornea, perform corrective procedures (such as medial canthoplasty surgery to shorten eyelid openings, cryotherapy to address irritation from abnormal hairs, or entropion surgery to reduce hairs rubbing on the corneas), and manage chronic conditions to preserve comfort and vision.
Take-Home Message
If you own a brachycephalic breed, extra attention to eye health is a must. With proactive care, you can help your pet avoid painful complications and keep those big, beautiful eyes shining bright.
About Us
Fetch Specialty & Emergency Veterinary Centers is a family-owned practice providing elevated specialty care, emergency medicine, and critical care in three convenient locations throughout Florida and South Carolina. Our board-certified veterinarians and highly skilled support staff all share a deep appreciation for pets, people, and the human-animal bond. We recognize how much you love your pet as a part of your family, and that’s why we love what we do!