French Bulldogs are known for their adorable faces, playful personalities, and loving nature. However, they are also prone to certain health issues—one of the most common being cherry eye. This condition can be alarming for owners, but with the right knowledge and treatment, it can be managed effectively.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about cherry eye in French Bulldogs, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

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What is Cherry Eye in French Bulldogs?

Cherry eye is a condition where a dog’s third eyelid gland prolapses, meaning it moves out of its normal position and becomes visible as a red, swollen mass in the corner of the eye.

French Bulldogs, along with other brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds, are more prone to cherry eye due to their unique eye structure and genetic predisposition.

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Causes of Cherry Eye in French Bulldogs

The exact cause of cherry eye isn’t fully understood, but it is believed to be due to weak connective tissues that fail to hold the third eyelid gland in place. Some common factors that contribute to cherry eye in French Bulldogs include:

✔️ Genetics – Some French Bulldogs inherit weak tissue around the eye, making them more susceptible.
✔️ Inflammation or Irritation – Allergies or infections can cause swelling, leading to the gland popping out.
✔️ Excessive Scratching or Rubbing – If a French Bulldog frequently rubs its eyes, it can trigger the condition.
✔️ Eye Trauma – A sudden injury or impact to the eye may cause the gland to shift.

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Symptoms of Cherry Eye in French Bulldogs

If your French Bulldog develops cherry eye, you’ll likely notice the following symptoms:

🔴 A red, swollen mass in the corner of the eye (resembling a small cherry)
😢 Excessive tearing or watery eyes
👁️ Squinting or blinking more than usual
🚫 Dry eyes due to impaired tear production
🩹 Rubbing or pawing at the eye due to discomfort

Cherry eye can affect one or both eyes, and if left untreated, it may lead to infections or long-term eye damage.

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Treatment Options for Cherry Eye in French Bulldogs

Massage Technique (At-Home Method)

If caught early, gently massaging the gland back into place may help. Use a clean, warm compress and apply gentle pressure in a circular motion. However, this is not a permanent fix, and the gland may prolapse again.

Medication (For Mild Cases)

Your vet may prescribe anti-inflammatory eye drops or ointments to reduce swelling and irritation. This can help temporarily, but it won’t fix the root cause.

Repair (Most Effective Treatment)

Surgery is the most common and effective treatment for cherry eye in French Bulldogs. The two main surgical options are:

Tucking Method – The gland is repositioned and stitched into place.
Pocket Technique – A small pocket is created to secure the gland without removing it.

‼️ Important: Removing the gland completely is NOT recommended, as it produces essential tears. Without it, your French Bulldog could develop dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), a lifelong condition requiring constant treatment.

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Preventing Cherry Eye in French Bulldogs

While cherry eye is often genetic and not entirely preventable, you can take steps to reduce the risk:

✅ Avoid Rough Play or Eye Trauma – Be gentle when playing with your French Bulldog, and keep an eye out for any injuries.
✅ Regular Eye Checks – Inspect your French Bulldog’s eyes for redness, swelling, or excessive tearing.
✅ Keep Their Eyes Clean – Use a soft cloth or vet-approved wipes to clean around the eyes and prevent infections.
✅ Manage Allergies – If your French Bulldog has allergies, work with your vet to reduce eye irritation.

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Final Thoughts on Cherry Eye in French Bulldogs

Cherry eye can look scary, but it’s a treatable condition that many French Bulldogs recover from with proper care. If you notice a red mass in your French Bulldog’s eye, consult a vet as soon as possible. Early treatment can prevent discomfort and long-term complications.

Has your French Bulldog ever experienced cherry eye? Share your story in the comments!

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