Cherry eye in dogs

Overview

• Cherry eye is when the gland inside the third eyelid prolapses (pops out) from the corner of the eye.  

• It is uncomfortable and needs to be treated by your vet. 

• Cherry eye is especially common in certain breeds such as English Bulldogs, and Mastiffs.  

• Most dogs with cherry eye need surgery to put the gland back to where it came from.  

• Always contact your vet if you think your dog has cherry eye.   

What is cherry eye in dogs? 

Cherry eye is when a dog’s tear gland prolapses (pops out) from behind their third eyelid, causing a red, swollen lump in the corner of the eye that looks like a cherry. This gland is usually tucked inside the third eyelid and it makes tears to keep the eye healthy. If it has popped out or if it’s removed, it can lead to problems like dry eye. 

What causes cherry eye in dogs? 

Although we aren’t sure exactly what causes cherry eye, we do know that it’s often inherited so tends to run in families and affects certain breeds of dog more than others. Some brachycephalic dog breeds are also more likely to have the condition. It’s especially common in the following breeds: 

• English Bulldogs 

• Mastiff 

• Great Dane 

• Lhasa Apso 

• Beagle 

• Shih Tzu 

• Pekingese 

• Boston Terrier 

• Cane Corso 

• American cocker spaniel 

We strongly recommend avoiding breeding from any dog that has suffered with cherry eye (even if they have had it corrected), as they may pass the condition on. 

Symptoms  

Cherry eye is usually easy to spot because it causes a red swelling in the corner of the eye (see picture above). It can happen in one or both eyes and usually develops before two years of age. You may also notice: 

• Rubbing at the eye due to irritation 

• Conjunctivitis (red and inflamed eye) 

• Eye discharge 

Treatment 

If your dog’s cherry eye is very small and not bothering them, your vet may suggest putting anti-inflammatory and lubricating eye drops in and keeping an eye on it rather than treating it straight away. But if the gland stays out, your dog is more likely to get dry eye. 

Surgery is the most common treatment for cherry eye in dogs. It involves stitching the gland back into place inside the third eyelid. Most surgeries are successful, but sometimes the gland can pop out again and may need another operation. If your dog’s cherry eye is particularly challenging to treat, they may need to visit a specialist eye hospital. 

In the past, it was common to surgically remove the gland, but this is much less commonly done because it can cause dry eye. 

Your vet may give your dog eye drops to keep them comfortable before and after surgery.  

Watch our video on how to give your dog eyedrops. 

After surgery, make sure they wear their buster collar so they can’t rub or scratch their eye, keep it on until your vet says otherwise.  

Outlook 

Fortunately, most cases of cherry eye are curable, even if it takes a few operations or a visit to a specialist eye hospital.  

However, it’s important to be aware that if your dog has had cherry eye in one eye, they might develop it in the other. And that dogs with cherry eye are at a higher risk of developing dry eye. 

Prevention 

Cherry eye often runs in the family, so we strongly recommend not breeding from any dogs that have suffered from it (even if they have had it corrected). 

When to contact your vet 

You know your dog best, always contact your vet if you’re concerned. 

Cost  

Treatment for cherry eye in dogs can become very expensive, so it’s important to speak openly with your vet about the cost of treatment, your finances, and what you think is right for your dog.  

Consider taking out dog insurance as soon as you bring your dog home, before any signs of illness start. This will give you peace of mind that you have some financial support if they ever become unwell. 

Published: April 2026