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Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca, KCS) in Dogs

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 17.02.2026

When to visit the vet?

Urgent see a veterinarian within 24 hours

RED in case of severe eye pain, corneal ulcers/clouding, or sudden significant deterioration in vision.

Unsure about what’s wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our Symptom Checker for more clarity

Definition

The “dry eye” or Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is a condition in dogs where the tear glands do not produce enough tear fluid, leading to a dry and inflamed eye surface.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Basics and possible causes

Tear fluid is crucial for the health of the eye’s surface. It consists of three layers: an oily outer layer, a watery middle layer, and a mucous inner layer. Each of these layers has a specific function, providing the eye with necessary nutrients, protecting against infections, and keeping the eye’s surface smooth.

A disruption in the production or composition of this tear fluid can lead to the development of KCS. Often, the watery component is reduced, leading to insufficient lubrication of the eye’s surface.

The causes of KCS can be varied. A common cause is an autoimmune reaction, where the dog’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. attacks and damages its own tear glands. This form of KCS occurs more frequently in certain dog breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels, West Highland White Terriers, and Shih Tzus.

Other causes can include infections, certain medications, systemic diseases, or surgical procedures that affect the nerve supply to the tear glands. Hormonal disorders such as hypothyroidism can also play a role.

Typical accompanying symptoms

Redness of the eyes: The eyes appear red and irritated due to the inflammation of the conjunctiva and cornea.
Eye discharge: There may be viscous, slimy, or purulentPurulent refers to pus or the production of pus, which may indicate a bacterial infection. Purulent inflammatory conditions are often painful and may have significant swelling and redness. discharge, often seen in the corners of the eyes.
Forced blinking: Dogs blink more frequently or squint because the eye surface is irritated and dry.
Corneal opacity: The cornea may appear milky or cloudy, indicating damage from dryness.
Crusted eyelids: Especially in the morning, the eyelids may be stuck together or crusted.
Pain sensitivity: Dogs may react sensitively to touch and generally show painful behavior in the area of the eyes.

When to see a vet?

A visit to the vet is necessary as soon as symptoms of dry eye are noticed, as early treatment is crucial to avoid permanent damage to the cornea. Left untreated, KCS can lead to serious complications such as ulcers or even loss of vision.

If the dog shows signs of Pain, such as frequent squinting, rubbing the eyes, or sensitivity to light, a vet should be consulted immediately. A sudden loss of vision or significant clouding of the cornea also requires immediate veterinary help.

Symptom recognition for the pet owner and veterinary diagnostic procedure

A pet owner can recognize symptoms such as redness, discharge, and frequent blinking. However, the exact diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made by the vet, who performs specific tests to assess tear production. The Schirmer tear test is a simple and effective method where a special paper strip is placed in the eyelids to measure the amount of tear fluid produced.

Additionally, the vet may use a fluorescent solution to make any damage or ulcers on the cornea visible. A comprehensive eye exam helps to rule out other eye diseases that could cause similar symptoms.

In some cases, blood tests or further diagnostic procedures may be necessary to identify systemic causes or underlying conditions that could contribute to KCS.

What the pet owner can do and professional therapy options

As a first step, pet owners can use tear substitutes / artificial tearsTear substitutes / artificial tears are preparations used to moisten the surface of the eyes. They are especially useful in dogs and cats with dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) to relieve irritation and support eye health. to help moisturize the eye’s surface. However, these should only be considered a short-term solution and do not replace the need for veterinary intervention.

It is important to keep the dog’s eyes clean by gently removing excess discharge with a soft, damp cloth. This can help prevent secondary bacterial infections.

Some environmental adjustments can also be helpful, such as avoiding drafts or dry air in the dog’s surroundings. A humidifier can help increase humidity indoors.

Long-term treatment and management of KCS requires working with a vet to determine the appropriate medication and treatment strategy. Anti-inflammatory medications and immunomodulatorsImmunomodulators are substances that affect the immune system by increasing or decreasing its activity. They are used in dogs and cats to treat autoimmune diseases, allergies, or as cancer therapy. are often prescribed to stimulate tear production and reduce inflammation.

Outlook on current research

Current research on Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) in dogs focuses on improving diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. methods and therapeutic approaches for treating this condition. One of the innovative developments in diagnostics is the use of advanced imaging techniques, such as high-resolution optical coherence tomography, which allows for a detailed view of the tear film structure. These techniques offer a more precise diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of the severity of the condition and can help to better tailor individual treatment.

In the treatment of KCS, research is focused on developing new medications that can stimulate tear production. A promising approach is the use of immunomodulatorsImmunomodulators are substances that affect the immune system by increasing or decreasing its activity. They are used in dogs and cats to treat autoimmune diseases, allergies, or as cancer therapy., which not only relieve symptoms but also act on the inflammatory processes that cause KCS. These medications are designed to improve tear gland function and reduce inflammation, leading to better long-term control of the disease.

Another exciting research approach is the use of stem cell therapies, which have the potential to regenerate damaged gland tissue. InitialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. studies show promising results, with a significant improvement in tear production observed in treated dogs. This therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. could represent a long-term solution for dogs suffering from severe KCS that do not respond to conventional treatments.

Research into the genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. of KCS is also providing valuable insights. By identifying genetic markers associated with a higher risk of developing KCS, preventive measures could be developed. This could be particularly important for breeding dogs to reduce the spread of the disease in certain breeds.

In summary, current research on KCS in dogs is progressing on several fronts, with the goal of providing better diagnostic tools and more effective treatments. These advances could lead to significant improvements in the quality of life for dogs with KCS in the near future.

Frequently asked questions

1. What is dry eye in dogs?

Dry eye, also known as Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), is a condition in which tear production is reduced, leading to dryness, irritation, and inflammation of the eye surface.

2. How do I know if my dog has dry eye?

Symptoms of dry eye in dogs include redness of the eyes, frequent blinking, eye discharge, eyelid edema, and visible discomfort or rubbing of the eyes.

3. What causes dry eye in dogs?

Dry eye can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, autoimmune diseases, infections, or as a side effect of certain medications.

4. Which dogs are most often affected by dry eye?

Certain breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus, are genetically more susceptible to developing KCS. Older dogs are also at higher risk.

5. How is dry eye diagnosed in dogs?

Diagnosis is usually made through a Schirmer tear test, where tear fluid production is measured using a special test strip, as well as a thorough eye exam by a vet.

6. What treatment options are there for dry eye in dogs?

Treatment often includes the regular use of eye drops or gels that stimulate tear production or moisturize the eyes, as well as, in some cases, the administration of anti-inflammatory drugs.

7. Can dry eye be cured in dogs?

In many cases, dry eye can be effectively treated, but not always cured. Most dogs require continuous treatment to control symptoms and avoid complications.

8. Are there natural remedies for dry eye in dogs?

Some owners use natural approaches, such as giving omega-3 fatty acids to support tear production. However, it is important to discuss such approaches with a vet to ensure they are safe and effective.

9. What complications can occur with untreated dry eye?

Untreated dry eye can lead to serious complications, including chronic eye inflammation, corneal ulcers, and in extreme cases, blindness.

10. How can I help my dog with dry eye?

In addition to medical treatment, you can help your dog by regularly cleaning his eyes, watching for signs of deterioration, and making sure he lives in an environment that is free of irritants such as smoke or dust.