The Japanese Chin has many characteristics that make them unique from other dogs. One of these characteristics is their bulging oversized eyes. Although these eyes may look cute and give the Chin a unique look, they are also responsible for causing the dog health problems.
There are a couple of problems the Japanese Chin is affected by due to these oversized eyes. Because of the large size of the eyes, they extend out of the socket further than they should. This makes it very easy for the eye to be scratched in any number of ways. When brushing or combing the hair on or around the dog's face, it is important that the eye isn't scratched. This can happen very easily since they seem to extend out so far.
The Japanese Chin should be kept out of tall grass or unfamiliar territory as these are also ways the dog can scratch the eye. Many Chin are brought in to the vet with scratched eyeballs. The eyes usually get corneal scratches since this is the part of the eye that will usually be scratched first. There are also other ulcerations that the Chin is subject to getting, which can be just as serious. If the scratches are minor, they can usually be treated with antibacterial ointment made for dogs' eyes. If the scratch or ulceration appears to be more than a minor injury, the dog may require immediate medical attention for a vet.
Unfortunately, the oversized eyes are a trait that exists in the Japanese Chin gene pool, and can't be avoided. If the dog is around small children or individuals not familiar with the Chin, they should be instructed as to the danger of the dog's eyes being scratched. If the eye receives serious damage or damage that is not immediately treated, it can lead to more serious eye trouble or possible blindness.
The oversized eye orbits allow too much moisture to accumulate on the face as well as the skin folds by the nose. The flattened face, characteristic of the Japanese Chin dog, traps moisture in the face, which can result in fungal problems. The face of the dog should be washed with a damp cloth to keep the area clean. The folds around the nose and eyes should be cleaned with a cotton swab. Always make sure the face is thoroughly dried when you are done cleaning it. Failure to properly dry the face may cause the same problem you are trying to eliminate.
The Japanese Chin will commonly develop discharge by the eye as well. Washing the eye area with distilled water or bottled water will help clean the eyes. There are also certain oils on the market that are effective in cleaning out the folds by the eyes.
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