Tear Ducts
A dogs tears are produced by the lacrimal gland, which lies above the outer corner of the eye and the third eyelid. Normally, the tears sweep across the surface of the eye to the inner corner of the eye and from there two small ducts carry the tears to the main tear duct, which drains into the nasal cavity. In Bulldogs, however, the normal workings of this system are disrupted by the abnormal features of the short face. Tear ducts may be constricted, compressed, clogged, or completely absent. If any of the conditions are present, the tears will not be able to drain correctly at the inner corner of the eye which results in the tears running over the lower eyelid and into the deep facial folds, which can cause an infection called Pyoderma.
If you notice your Bulldog experiencing tearing problems, also consider that any irritation or infection of the lids or eye, such as entropion or ulcers, could cause the lacrimal gland to produce an abnormal amount of tears, which will result in the same drainage overflow as a tear duct problem.
A veterinarian can do simple tests to help determine the problem. Sometimes flushing the eyes is successful but others may require surgery.
If you notice your Bulldog experiencing tearing problems, also consider that any irritation or infection of the lids or eye, such as entropion or ulcers, could cause the lacrimal gland to produce an abnormal amount of tears, which will result in the same drainage overflow as a tear duct problem.
A veterinarian can do simple tests to help determine the problem. Sometimes flushing the eyes is successful but others may require surgery.