Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Eye surface differences in dogs with different head shapes
By Li, Yan-Hui et al.·Published in Veterinary ophthalmology·2025·Institute of Veterinary Clinical Sciences·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Investigation of ocular surface parameters in dogs with different cephalic conformations using veterinary ocular surface analyzer (OSA-VET).
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A study found that brachycephalic dogs, like Bulldogs and Pugs, often have eye problems, including a thinner tear film and less stable tears, which can lead to dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca). The researchers tested 68 dogs with different head shapes and discovered that those with shorter noses had lower tear film quality compared to dogs with longer noses. While the tear production was similar across all groups, the brachycephalic dogs showed signs of meibomian gland issues, which help produce tears. This information can help veterinarians better diagnose and treat eye conditions in these breeds.
People also search for: brachycephalic dog eye problems · dry eye treatment for Bulldogs · tear film stability in Pugs
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To compare ocular surface parameters in dogs with different cephalic conformations and evaluate correlations among tests. ANIMALS STUDIED: Sixty-eight privately owned dogs. PROCEDURES: The study categorized canine eyes into three groups based on the craniofacial ratio (CFR): brachycephaly (≤0.52), mesocephaly (>0.52 to <0.67), and dolichocephaly (≥0.67). All eyes were examined using an ocular surface analyzer (OSA-VET) to determine lipid layer thickness (LLT) of the tear film, tear meniscus height (TMH), non-invasive tear breakup time (NIBUT), and meibomian gland loss rate of the lower eyelids (MGLRL). Schirmer tear test 1 (STT-1) and tear film breakup time (TBUT) were also performed. Statistical analyses involved one-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis H test, post hoc Holm-Sidak test, and Pearson correlation coefficient. RESULTS: While STT-1 showed no significant difference among dog groups, brachycephalic dogs had significantly lower values in TBUT, NIBUT, and LLT, and a higher TMH, compared to mesocephalic and dolichocephalic dogs. Additionally, brachycephalic dogs exhibited a significantly higher MGLRL than dolichocephalic dogs. Correlations among tests were generally weak to moderate (r < .6) except for a strong correlation between CFR and LLT (r = .641, p < .001), and between TBUT and NIBUT (r = .899, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Brachycephalic morphology predisposes dogs to a significantly thinner lipid layer and diminished tear film stability, likely due to factors such as impaired meibomian gland function and increased ocular exposure compared to other cephalic conformations, thereby increasing their risk of keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). OSA-VET shows a valuable tool to provide more comprehensive and precise diagnosis for canine ocular surface disorders.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39013802/