Weepy Eyes in Dog

Question:

Hello, I have a Shima puppy, 7 mo. old.  she has very weepy eyes and I would like to know if there is anything that can be done for this condition or is it just a trait of the breed? Shima's are a new breed cross of Shih tzu and Maltese, is there is anything at all I can do for her? There is an odor to the discharge, and the vet said to wash the eyes several times daily as the discharge can make it sore. That sounds kind of toxic to me so am wondering if it can be cleared up.. PLEASE HELP!!  
Thank you, Dixie B.

Response

Hello Dixie,
Thank you for your inquiry to Holistic Pet Info. Unfortunately small breed dogs do have the predisposition for tear staining and chronic discharge from the eyes. If your veterinarian has diagnosed the weepiness as tear staining and not an infection, I recommend i-Clenz by Pet Alive. If there is an infection present Eye-Heal by Pet Alive may help clear a minor infection.

Also, allergens coming from the diet can often cause ocular discharge. Look closely at your dog food and treats for preservatives such as BHT, BHA or ethoxyquin and food coloring. These additives also may cause chronic ear infections and chewing on the feet. Best of luck.

Sincerely,
Colleen Smith DVM, CVA

Follow up question:

Thank you so much for your response, for some reason she has not been having weepy eye for several days now, not sure what is going on there but it is nice not to have the odor and wettness.  Can I ask you another question? is it ok to feed them fruit? she loves cantalope, bananas, kiwi (no seeds) and pear's, is this odd or what? is it ok mostly? again, Thanks.  Dixie

Hello Dixie,
Yes, you can give her fruit, though I recommend low acid fruits and not too many at once. The fructose in the fruits can cause some loose stool. I also advocate green leafy and orange vegetables; the natural fiber is excellent for digestion. Natural vitamins and minerals are always preferred in the food rather than by supplementation. As you offer her new foods, always make a note of an increase or decrease of the tearing, as they may be allergens exacerbating the eye discharge.
Sincerely,
Colleen Smith DVM, CVA