04/15/2026
🐾 A close look: What are those extra hairs??? 🐾
These two photos show a classic case of distichia — extra eyelashes that grow from the wrong place (the meibomian glands along the eyelid margin) and rub directly against the eye.
You can clearly see the dark, abnormal hairs irritating the cornea and conjunctiva. This poor pup’s eye is red, watery, and uncomfortable because those rogue lashes are constantly scratching the surface.
Common signs of distichiasis in dogs:
• Excessive tearing / watery eyes
• Redness or inflammation
• Squinting or pawing at the face
• Corneal ulcers (in severe cases)
It’s especially common in breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Shih Tzus, Bulldogs, and many others. Most dogs develop these within the first few years of life.
If your dog has chronically watery or red eyes, don’t assume it’s just allergies — ask your vet to flip the eyelid and check for distichia!
Has your dog ever dealt with this? Drop a comment below 👇
