Swollen Under-Eye of Canine

by Jen
(New York, NY)

Reader Question: What Is Causing The Area Underneath This Dog's Eye To Swell?

I'm dog sitting and noticed a small swelling below the dog's right eye. As time progressed, the mark swelled into 3 larger marks, including a mark near the other eye. I've gave him a Benadryl, but wondering if more serious treatment is needed. I'm suspecting that it's either allergies or a bee sting, but am looking for any helpful feedback.

Veterinarian Answers Reader Question Regarding Swollen Under-eye Of Dog

Hi,

It’s hard for me to say what might be going on with your client’s dog without examining him. You’re right, a bug bite or allergic reaction might be to blame, and if that’s the case, I’d expect his symptoms to be as bad as they’re going to be within 24 hours or so and then get better rather rapidly. If you cannot get in touch with the owners to ask what they would like you to do, I think playing it “better safe than sorry” is your best option, particularly since you are dealing with a problem near the sensitive tissues of the eye.

A veterinarian can examine the dog and give you and the owners an idea if it’s something that will get better on its own or with minimal treatment, or if these symptoms are the first sign of a potentially serious condition.

Best of luck,

Jennifer Coates, DVM