First aid

Eye injury and chemicals in the eye: dog first aid

Use this when your dog is squinting, holding an eye shut, has a red or runny eye after an injury, or got a chemical in its eye.

Get your dog to a vet as soon as you can

Verdict: First aid · Emergency: get help now
Signs: Holding the eye shut or squinting, redness, discharge or a watery eye, swollen eyelids and pawing at the eye.
First step: If a chemical got in the eye, flush it right away with lots of clean water or saline for at least 20 minutes. All steps
Sources: Blue Cross, Merck Veterinary Manual, Pet Poison Helpline. Reviewed 9 October 2026.

If a chemical got in the eye, flush it right away with lots of clean water or saline for at least 20 minutes.
Stop your dog rubbing or pawing at the eye. Use a cone if you have one.
Call your vet now, and bring the product label if a chemical was involved.
Take your dog to the vet even if the eye seems better.

Eye problems can get worse very quickly. Chemicals can burn the surface of the eye, so fast flushing and a vet check are important.

Guide reviewed 9 October 2026. Page updated 7 November 2026.

General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.