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What is entropion?
Entropion is an abnormal "in-rolling" of the eyelid. This in-rolling causes the hairs of the eyelid to abrade the surface of the eye.
What causes entropion?
Entropion is usually due to an inherited faulty eyelid conformation that manifests in young adult dogs. Occasionally, entropion results from an eyelid spasm due to some other painful eye condition.
Are certain breeds of dogs prone to entropion?
Yes. The Bloodhound, Bulldog, Retrievers, Chow Chow, Rottweiler, and Shar Pei are prone to entropion, although any breed may be affected.
How do I recognize that my dog has entropion?
Most pet owners notice that the affected eye is partially held shut and has excessive tearing. Both eyes are usually affected simultaneously. Breed related entropion usually affects dogs under 1 year of age.
How is entropion diagnosed?
A thorough examination of the eye is performed to make certain there are no other painful conditions present that are causing an eyelid spasm. If the eye has no other problem, then a diagnosis of inherited entropion is made.
How is entropion treated?
Most dogs with entropion require surgical correction. This surgery involves removing a small portion of the skin to tighten the eyelid. Temporary eyelid tacking may be used in very young dogs. Definitive surgical correction is often delayed until the dog has a more mature head conformation at 6 months of age. If uncorrected, subsequent corneal ulceration, pigmentation, and scarring may produce vision loss.
Should I show my dog if it has had entropion?
No. the American Kennel Club considers entropion surgery a "cosmetic" surgery and prohibits these animals from participating in AKC sanctioned shows and events.
Should I breed my dog if it has had entropion?
If a dog has had entropion due to an eyelid spasm, there is no restriction placed on breeding. The American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists, in conjunction with the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF) have made breed-specific breeding recommendations with inherited entropion. Ideally, no dog with inherited entropion should be bred, since this may result in offspring with entropion.
Will entropion recur?
In most cases, no. Some breeds of dogs such as the Chow Chow and Shar Pei may have severe and complex entropion that requires several corrective surgeries.
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