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Partial globe prolapse in Dogs

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 16.02.2026

When to visit the vet?

Emergency see a veterinarian immediately

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Definition

The condition in which a dog’s eyeball is partially outside the orbital cavityThe orbital cavity is a bony structure in the skull that surrounds the eye and its adnexa. It protects the eye and provides attachment points for the eye muscles. is known as exophthalmos or proptosis. In this case, the eyeball shifts forward from its normal position.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Proptosis (Prolapse of the Eyeball)

Basics and possible causes

Exophthalmos occurs when the eyeball is pushed out of the orbital cavityThe orbital cavity is a bony structure in the skull that surrounds the eye and its adnexa. It protects the eye and provides attachment points for the eye muscles.. This can be caused by traumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries., such as a blow or a fall. CongenitalCongenital means "present from birth" and refers to characteristics or conditions that are already present at birth. This can include genetic disorders, developmental anomalies, or infections transmitted by the mother. anatomical features, especially in brachycephalic breeds like pugs and bulldogs, can also contribute to this. These dogs naturally have shallower orbital cavities, which increases the risk.

Another risk for exophthalmos can arise from inflammatory conditions that cause swelling in the orbital area. Tumors, abscesses, or inflammation of the muscles or nerves around the eye can also lead to a protrusion of the eyeball. Infections, particularly bacterial ones, can also affect the structures around the eye and push the eyeball outward.

Hormonal conditions, such as Cushing’s syndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment. or hyperthyroidism, can also be involved in eye protrusion in rare cases. These conditions lead to a thickening of the tissue or fluid accumulation, which exerts pressure on the eye.

Typical accompanying symptoms

Swelling around the eye: Often, the area around the affected eye is swollen and red, indicating inflammation or traumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries..
Inability to close the eye: With a protruding eyeball, the dog may have difficulty closing the eyelid completely, which can lead to dryness and further damage.
Tearing and discharge: Excessive tearing 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 may occur if the eye is irritated or infected.
Change in eye color: The conjunctiva and cornea may change color, e.g. blue or reddish, indicating impaired blood circulation or oxygen supply.
Behavioral changes: The dog may show signs of discomfort or pain, such as increased blinking, rubbing the eye with its paw, or avoiding touch.

When to see a vet?

A visit to the vet is urgently required if the dog’s eyeball protrudes from the orbital cavityThe orbital cavity is a bony structure in the skull that surrounds the eye and its adnexa. It protects the eye and provides attachment points for the eye muscles. to avoid irreversible damage. The faster the treatment is carried out, the better the chances of preserving the dog’s vision and eye health.

Immediate veterinary care is also necessary if the dog shows obvious pain, cannot close the eye properly, or if signs of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., such as pus or blood, are visible. A veterinarian should also be consulted if there are accompanying symptoms such as loss of appetite or lethargy.

If the dog has a pre-existing condition that leads to an increased risk of exophthalmos, such as known hormonal imbalances or previous eye problems, an immediate examination is necessary to prevent the situation from worsening.

Symptom recognition for the pet owner and veterinary diagnostic procedure

Pet owners usually recognize exophthalmos by the noticeable protrusion of the eyeball. Changes in the dog’s behavior, such as increased blinking or rubbing of the eye, can also indicate the condition. Accurate observation and description of the symptoms to the veterinarian are crucial for a correct 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..

The veterinarian will first perform a thorough physical examination, specifically assessing the eye structure and the condition of the surrounding tissues. An ophthalmological examination using special instruments allows for the inspection of the cornea, conjunctiva, and the internal structures of the eye.

Imaging procedures such as X-rays or ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. may be required to assess the condition of the orbital cavityThe orbital cavity is a bony structure in the skull that surrounds the eye and its adnexa. It protects the eye and provides attachment points for the eye muscles. and surrounding structures. In some cases, an MRI or CT may be necessary to identify the cause of the protrusion, especially if a tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. or deeper inflammation is suspected.

Additionally, blood tests may be performed to rule out or confirm systemic causes, such as hormonal disorders or infections. These tests help in developing a comprehensive treatment strategy.

What the pet owner can do and professional therapy options

Until the visit to the vet, the pet owner should try to protect the affected eye as much as possible. It is important to prevent the dog from rubbing the eye or further injuring it through external influences. An Elizabethan collar can be useful to prevent scratching.

The eye can be carefully covered with clean, slightly moistened gauze to protect it from dirt and further irritation until professional treatment can be provided. However, it is important not to apply any medications or ointments without a veterinarian’s instructions, as this could worsen the situation.

A calming stay in a quiet environment can help the dog reduce stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., which in turn can reduce pressure on the eye. The pet owner should ensure that the dog does not engage in too much physical activity to avoid further injury.

Prompt and correct veterinary intervention is crucial for successful treatment. The pet owner should therefore lose no time and seek professional help immediately to ensure the best possible prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. for the affected eye.

Outlook on current research

Current scientific research is working intensively on developing new surgical techniques and treatment approaches to address the symptom of a partially prolapsed eyeball in dogs. This symptom, also known as exophthalmos, can be triggered by various factors, including genetic predispositions and traumas. Research focuses on understanding the exact physiological mechanisms that lead to this protrusion and how these mechanisms can be specifically addressed.

A significant part of the research deals with the role of inflammatory processes in the eye and surrounding tissues. Studies have shown that inflammation plays a significant role in damaging the tissues that support the eyeball and hold it in the orbital cavityThe orbital cavity is a bony structure in the skull that surrounds the eye and its adnexa. It protects the eye and provides attachment points for the eye muscles.. Researchers are now investigating new anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. and their effectiveness in reducing symptoms and stabilizing the eyeball.

Another promising area of research is the study of genetic markers associated with exophthalmos. Through genome sequencing studies, scientists hope to identify specific genetic abnormalities that occur more frequently in certain dog breeds. This information could lead to the development of genetic tests in the future, enabling early risk detection and supporting preventive measures.

Additionally, research is being conducted in regenerative medicine to develop new treatment options. The use of stem cells to regenerate and repair damaged tissue in and around the orbital cavityThe orbital cavity is a bony structure in the skull that surrounds the eye and its adnexa. It protects the eye and provides attachment points for the eye muscles. is an exciting field of research. In the future, these approaches could not only alleviate symptoms but also lead to a full restoration of the normal eyeball position.

Research teams worldwide are also working on improved imaging techniques to better assess the exact position and condition of the eyeball. Advances in diagnostic imagingDiagnostic imaging includes medical procedures that create images of the inside of the body to diagnose, monitor, or treat diseases and injuries. Examples include X-ray, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)., such as high-resolution computed tomography (CT)Computed tomography (CT) is an imaging technique that uses X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the body. It enables a detailed view of bones, organs, and other structures and is used for the diagnosis of injuries, diseases, and for planning medical interventions. and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs., allow for a detailed analysis of anatomical structures and help in planning individual treatment strategies.

Interdisciplinary collaboration between veterinarians, ophthalmologists, geneticists, and biotechnology researchers is opening up new perspectives for treating dogs with exophthalmos. By exchanging knowledge and technologies, innovative therapeutic approaches are being developed that could both improve the quality of life for affected dogs and provide new insights into comparable diseases in humans.

Frequently asked questions

1. What does it mean if my dog's eyeball is partially outside the orbital cavity?

This means that the eyeball protrudes from its normal position in the orbital cavity, which is medically referred to as exophthalmos. It can be triggered by various causes such as injuries, infections, or genetic factors.

2. Is exophthalmos painful for dogs?

Yes, exophthalmos can be painful for dogs, especially if it is associated with inflammation or infection. Pressure on surrounding structures can also cause discomfort.

3. Can all dog breeds be affected by exophthalmos?

Although any dog breed can be affected, certain breeds, especially those with short skulls (brachycephalic breeds) like pugs and bulldogs, are more susceptible due to their anatomy.

4. How is exophthalmos diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually made through a combination of clinical examination and imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI to assess the position of the eyeball and the condition of the surrounding tissues.

5. What are the treatment options for exophthalmos in dogs?

Treatment depends on the cause and may include medications to reduce inflammation, surgical interventions to correct the eyeball position, or a combination of both.

6. Can exophthalmos heal on its own?

In some cases, especially if caused by temporary swelling, the condition may improve. However, medical treatment is required for structural or severe causes.

7. How can I help my dog recover from exophthalmos?

Follow your veterinarian's instructions exactly, including administering medication and performing recommended care practices. A quiet environment can also contribute to recovery.

8. Can exophthalmos be prevented?

While genetic factors cannot be prevented, reducing the risk of injury and timely management of infections can help minimize the occurrence of exophthalmos.

9. Does exophthalmos affect my dog's vision?

Yes, exophthalmos can affect vision, especially if complications such as corneal injuries or infections occur. Early treatment is important to avoid permanent damage.

10. Is exophthalmos life-threatening in dogs?

While exophthalmos itself is not necessarily life-threatening, untreated causes or complications can lead to serious health problems. Timely veterinary care is crucial.