What is Cherry Eye
Cherry eye is the colloquial term for this condition, but the official name is prolapse of the third eyelid gland.
In addition to the upper and lower eyelids, dogs have a third eyelid and associated gland, which helps keep the eye lubricated. When the structures around the gland weaken, it can fall from its normal position and stick out, looking somewhat like a little cherry.
Cherry Eye can affect one or both of your dog’s eyes. Any breed is susceptible to this condition, even dogs with long noses. However, cherry eye tends to be more common in younger dogs and certain breeds like flat face dogs (French bulldogs, Shar Pei, Pugs or Cocker spaniels and Beagles).
Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC
Published September 2025 | Review date September 2028
This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
Symptoms of Cherry Eye in dogs
Red or pink, swollen mass in the inner corner of the eye
Eye irritation due to paw at his/her eyes, rub his/her face on furniture
Increased tear production
A watery or even pus-like discharge may be present
The affected eye and surrounding tissue may appear swollen and inflamed
When to contact your vet
When any signs from the above list are present or if your dog is in pain or bleeding from it.
Diagnosis
Full visual eye exam
Specific tests to check on possible other conditions such as Dry eye and /or Corneal ulcers
Treatment of Cherry Eye in Dogs
Cherry eye surgery: surgical treatment under general anaesthesia is the primary (and only permanent) treatment. This involves carefully placing the gland back into its normal position and securing it with sutures.
Gland removal is generally avoided and considered only as the last resource due to the risk of dry eye later in life.
Your vet may prescribe topical medication before or after the surgery to manage inflammation and prevent infection before and after surgery.
While surgery is highly successful, recurrence is possible, and some dogs may require a second surgery. Factors like breed and surgical technique can affect the chance of recurrence. Dogs who have had cherry eye in one eye are also at a higher risk of developing it in the other.
Prevention
Cherry eye in dogs is unpreventable due to its genetic basis; proactive measures can minimise the risk of complications and recurrence, such as early detection and intervention, using a harness, which can reduce pressure on the neck and eyes.
Outlook
With prompt surgical intervention, the outlook for cherry eye is generally positive, and most dogs recover well. In some cases, the gland may re-prolapse after surgery or prolapse in the other eye, requiring further intervention. Some dogs with cherry eye are at a higher risk of developing dry eye, even after successful surgery. Lifelong lubrication may be needed in some cases.