Skip to main content

How to give your dog eye drops

Estimated Reading Time 1 minutes
How to give your dog eye drops

Does your dog have an eye problem that needs to be treated with eye drops? Here are some tips and advice to help you give the drops safely and effectively.

Are you concerned about your pet? Meet a vet online!

  • Included free as part of many pet insurance policies
  • Help, treatment and if you need it, a referral to your local vet
  • Open 24/7, 365 days a year

How to apply the eye drops

  • Start by washing your hands so that you don’t accidentally bring dirt or bacteria near your dog’s eyes.
  • Support your dog’s head with one hand under the chin. With the same hand, use your thumb to gently pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
  • Take the bottle of eye drops in the other hand and rest your hand against the dog’s head before applying the drops to the eye. Avoid touching the eye with the applicator tip.
  • Gently release the eye and allow it to close, which will spread the treatment across the eye. Give your dog a small treat as a reward.
  • Dry the area around the eye with a cotton pad.

Still have questions?

Book a video appointment to have a chat with one of our vets.


Published: 28/02/2020
Last updated: 23/03/2021

Contact a UK vet online right now!

What can we do for your furry friend?

  • Assess how they are in that exact moment
  • Answer your questions, offer advice, and make a plan about your concerns
  • Recommend easily available, over-the-counter pet health products when sufficient
  • Make a referral to a local vet when necessary
Book an appointment
  • Included free as part of many pet insurance policies Included free as part of many pet insurance policies
  • Help, treatment and if you need it, a referral to your local vet Help, treatment and if you need it, a referral to your local vet
  • Open 24/7, 365 days a year Open 24/7, 365 days a year
Download app for iosDownload app for android