How to Tell If Your Dog Is Blind: Recognizing the Symptoms

To determine if your dog is experiencing vision loss, start by observing their behavior, testing their reaction to movement, examining their eyes, using food to test their sight, or consulting a veterinarian. Symptoms of dog blindness include a dull appearance in the eyes, a reluctance to move around, and a more withdrawn personality. During this time, your role as a pet parent becomes even more important. Spend extra time with your dog and assist them with their daily routines.

As dogs age, they, like humans, experience the degeneration of various organs, particularly in their vision. This can lead to conditions like presbyopia, cataracts, and glaucoma, potentially resulting in blindness. If your dog's eyes appear dull, their movements become slow, and they are less active than usual, it may indicate a risk of blindness, and you should seek immediate veterinary attention.

How to Assess if Your Dog is Blind

1. Observe Their Behavior

Pay close attention to your dog's movements. If they frequently bump into walls or other obstacles, it suggests a significant decline in their vision.

2. Hand Movement Test

Try waving your hand in front of your dog's eyes. Normally, their eyes should follow the movement. If there's no response, it could indicate blindness.

3. Examine Their Eyes

Use a bright light, like a flashlight, to observe your dog's pupils. A normal reaction is for the pupils to contract when exposed to light. If this doesn't occur, it might signal a vision problem.

4. Food Test

Place your dog's favorite treat nearby and use hand gestures or commands to guide them to it. If they struggle to locate the food, it could mean they're experiencing vision loss.

5. Veterinary Checkup

If you notice any decline in your dog's vision, consult your vet for a thorough examination and treatment as soon as possible.Bonus resource:Pet Knowledge