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Chalazion in Dogs
Written By Alex Olsson
Published: 04/19/2017Updated: 04/04/2025
Veterinary reviewed by Dr. Linda Simon, MVB MRCVS
What is Chalazion in dogs?
A small bump on your dog’s eyelid might seem harmless, but could it be something more? Chalazion in dogs is a condition that occurs when an oil gland in the eyelid becomes blocked, forming a firm lump that, while typically painless, can be irritating or lead to complications. Knowing how to recognize and manage a chalazion can help keep your pup comfortable and prevent further issues.
Let’s take a closer look at the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery process so you know exactly how to help your furry friend.
My dog's eye is swollen. Is this a Chalazion?
Yes. If you've ever noticed a small, swollen bump on your dog’s eyelid that doesn’t seem to go away? It could be a chalazion, a condition that occurs when an oil gland in a dog's eyelid gets blocked, forming a non-painful but noticeable lump.
While it might look concerning, a chalazion is usually harmless and different from an infection or a dog eye swollen due to other causes.
A chalazion is caused by a blocked meibomian gland, which is responsible for producing oils that keep your dog’s eyes lubricated. When this gland clogs, the oil builds up, forming a cyst-like lump that may appear yellowish or firm under the skin. Unlike a stye, which is often red and painful, a chalazion is typically painless but can still cause irritation.
Symptoms of Chalazion in dogs
Spotting a chalazion early can help prevent discomfort and secondary complications. Here are some telltale signs:
- A firm, round lump on the upper or lower eyelid
- Mild swelling around the affected area
- Yellow or white appearance inside the lump (due to trapped oil)
- Puffy eyelids or a dog eye puffy look
- Increased blinking or squinting
- Excessive eye rubbing or pawing
- Mild redness or irritation around the eye
While a chalazion itself isn’t usually painful, it can become irritating if it grows large enough to press against the eye. If your dog’s eye appears severely swollen, red, or shows signs of infection, it might be something more serious, like an abscess or sebaceous cyst, requiring veterinary attention.
Causes of chalazion in dogs
A chalazion develops when the meibomian glands in the eyelid become blocked, leading to oil buildup. But what causes this blockage? Here are some common culprits:
- Oil gland dysfunction: Some dogs naturally produce more oil, leading to clogged glands.
- Inflammation or allergies: Conditions like conjunctivitis or allergic reactions can contribute to gland blockages.
- Foreign debris: Dust, dirt, or even stray hairs can clog the gland openings.
- Aging: Older dogs are more prone to chalazion development due to natural changes in their tear production and gland function.
- Underlying skin conditions: Dogs prone to sebaceous cysts or chronic skin issues may be at higher risk.
Diagnosis of chalazion in dogs
If you notice a lump on your dog’s eyelid that doesn’t go away or seems to be growing, it’s best to visit a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. Here’s what to expect:
- Physical examination: The vet will closely examine the eyelid lump to determine if it’s a chalazion, a stye, or another type of growth.
- Fluorescein stain test: If there’s any concern about corneal damage, this test helps rule out scratches or ulcers.
- Ophthalmic exam: In some cases, a vet may use specialized equipment to get a detailed look at the eye and eyelids.
- Biopsy (rare cases): If the lump is unusually large or persistent, a biopsy may be performed to rule out more serious conditions like tumors.
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Treatment for Chalazion in dogs
The good news? Most chalazions don’t require aggressive treatment and may resolve on their own. However, if the lump is large or causing discomfort, here’s how it can be managed:
Home care for mild cases
- Warm compresses: Applying a warm, damp cloth to your dog’s eyelid for 5–10 minutes, a few times a day, can help soften and drain the blocked gland.
- Gentle eyelid massage: Lightly massaging the area (if your dog allows it) may encourage the oil to disperse.
- Keep the eye area clean: Use a vet-approved eye cleanser to remove debris and prevent secondary infections.
Veterinary treatment for severe cases
- Topical or oral medications: Anti-inflammatory eye drops or ointments may be prescribed to reduce swelling and irritation.
- Manual expression: In some cases, a vet may gently express the gland to remove the trapped oil.
- Surgical removal: If the chalazion is persistent or affecting your dog’s vision, a minor surgical procedure may be necessary to remove the cyst.
What NOT to do
- Do not attempt to pop or squeeze the chalazion yourself. This can lead to infection and further irritation.
- Avoid over-the-counter human eye drops without veterinary guidance, as some ingredients can be harmful to dogs.
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Recovery and prevention
Most dogs recover well from chalazions, especially if treated early. Here’s what to expect:
- Mild cases often resolve within a few weeks with warm compresses and eye care.
- Surgically removed chalazions heal within 7–14 days, though temporary swelling may occur.
- Preventative measures include:
- Regularly cleaning your dog’s eyes, especially for breeds prone to dog cyst development.
- Keeping their environment dust-free to prevent debris from clogging the glands.
- Monitoring for recurring eyelid issues and addressing them early.
If your pup has a history of eye problems, regular vet check-ups can help catch issues before they become bigger problems.
Chalazion Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Mutt
Eleven Years
58 found this helpful
58 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
No Symptoms
Has a stye or chalazion on her eye doesn’t seem to bother her but it looks like it got a little bigger
Sept. 28, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
58 Recommendations
Thank you for your question.
Growths like that often need to be taken off if they are not going away. If it seems to be getting bigger, it would be best to have your veterinarian look at it before it grows any more, as those are much easier to remove when they are small.
Oct. 9, 2020
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King Charles Spaniel mix
101/2
8 found this helpful
8 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Has A Small Growth On Bottom Eyelash
We at first thought it was a tick but, didn't see any legs on it.
Sept. 27, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
8 Recommendations
Thank you for your question.
Since I cannot see the growth or examine her, It would be best to have her seen by a veterinarian, as they can examine your pet and see what might be causing this, and let you know what treatment might help.
Oct. 11, 2020
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