What are Corneal Ulcers in Dogs?

The cornea is the transparent, front portion of the eye. In dogs, corneal ulcers are painful lesions that develop on its surface.  

Main causes of corneal ulcers are:  

• Trauma such as scratches, pawing, foreign objects (like thorns), or blunt trauma  

• Underlying eye conditions such as dry eye, eyelid abnormalities (entropion or ectopic cilia), and spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defects (SCCEDs)  

• Bacterial or viral infections 

Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published September 2025 | Review date September 2027 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet