# Is Entropion in Dogs Hereditary? Breeds and Risk Explained Entropion in dogs is hereditary in many cases, especially in breeds with loose facial skin or deeply set eyes. Genetics strongly influence whether a dog develops this eyelid condition, though other factors can play a role too. If your dog has entropion, understanding the inherited component helps you make better decisions for their care and for breeding. This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. ## Quick Answer - Entropion is an inherited condition in many dog breeds, and certain breeds face a much higher risk because of their facial structure [1][2]. - A study of Labrador Retrievers found that selective breeding reduced entropion cases from 6.46% to 3.12% over about a decade [3]. - Pugs are especially affected, with entropion diagnosed in 72.4% of Pugs in one German eye screening program [1]. - Signs include excessive tearing, squinting, rubbing at the eyes, and red or irritated eyes. - Surgery is the main treatment when entropion does not resolve on its own, and outcomes are generally good [4]. ## What Is Entropion in Dogs? Entropion is a condition where the eyelid margin rolls inward toward the eye. When this happens, the eyelid skin and hair rub against the cornea and conjunctiva. That constant friction causes irritation, pain, and sometimes serious damage to the eye surface. The condition can affect the upper lid, the lower lid, or both. It can be mild or severe. Some dogs have entropion in one eye, while others have it in both. The inward rolling often gets worse over time if left untreated, because the irritation causes spasms that pull the lid even tighter against the eye. Entropion is considered a developmental abnormality in many cases, meaning the eyelid forms incorrectly as the dog grows [5]. In puppies, it may appear within the first few weeks or months of life. In adult dogs, it can develop later, sometimes triggered by other eye problems or changes in facial structure. ## Signs of Entropion You Might Notice Owners often notice eye changes before a veterinarian makes a formal diagnosis. Common signs include: - Excessive tearing or wetness around the eye - Squinting or holding one eye partially closed - Pawing at the eye or rubbing the face against furniture - Redness in the white part of the eye - Cloudiness or a bluish tint on the cornea - Discharge from the eye - Sensitivity to light Some dogs show these signs constantly, while others have good days and bad days. Puppies with entropion may seem fine one moment and then squint after a nap or when they are tired. The signs can be easy to miss in dogs with dark facial fur. If you notice any of these signs, schedule a veterinary visit. Early treatment can prevent permanent damage to the eye. ## Entropion in Dogs Causes and Risk Factors ### Is Entropion in Dogs Hereditary? Yes, entropion in dogs is hereditary in many breeds. The condition is considered a presumed inherited eye disease in several dog populations [1]. Genetics influence the shape of the eyelid, the amount of skin around the eye, and how the facial bones develop. When these traits are passed down, they can create the conditions for entropion. A study of Labrador Retrievers in a guide dog program showed how strongly genetics matter. Before selective breeding, the incidence of entropion was 6.46%. After the program began breeding away from affected dogs, the incidence dropped to 3.12% [3]. That is a meaningful reduction, and it shows that breeding choices directly affect how often entropion appears. The same study found that dogs born before selective breeding had 1.96 times greater risk of entropion compared to dogs born after the program changed its approach [3]. This is strong evidence that entropion has a heritable component in Labradors and likely in other breeds too. ### Which Breeds Are Predisposed? Entropion in dogs breeds is not evenly distributed. Some breeds have a much higher risk because of their facial anatomy. Breeds with loose skin, short muzzles, or deeply set eyes are more likely to develop the condition. Pugs are one of the most affected breeds. In a German study of 294 Pugs, entropion was the most frequent diagnosis at 72.4% [1]. That means nearly three out of four Pugs in that screening program had entropion. The study also found that 81.3% of Pugs had at least one adnexal disorder, which includes eyelid problems [1]. Other breeds commonly seen for eye conditions include Toy Poodles, Shiba Inus, Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas, Miniature Dachshunds, and French Bulldogs [2]. These breeds were reported most frequently by veterinary ophthalmologists in Japan, and many of them have known inherited eye diseases [2]. Breeds with heavy facial folds, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Pekingese, are at higher risk. Breeds with droopy lower eyelids, like Bloodhounds and Basset Hounds, also have increased risk. Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Rottweilers can be affected as well. If you own a breed known for entropion, talk to your veterinarian about screening. Early monitoring can catch the condition before it causes serious damage. ### Other Causes and Contributing Factors Genetics is not the only cause. Entropion can also develop from: - Eye infections or injuries that cause spasms of the eyelid muscles - Chronic conjunctivitis or other inflammatory conditions - Anatomical changes as a dog ages - Scarring from previous eye surgery or trauma In some cases, entropion is secondary to another eye problem. Treating the underlying condition may resolve the entropion without surgery. Your veterinarian will need to determine whether the entropion is primary (inherited or developmental) or secondary (caused by another issue). ## How Entropion Is Diagnosed Diagnosis starts with a thorough eye examination. Your veterinarian will look at the eyelid margins, check for inward rolling, and assess the health of the cornea and conjunctiva. They may use a fluorescein stain to check for corneal ulcers or scratches. In some cases, your veterinarian may refer you to a veterinary ophthalmologist for a more detailed evaluation. The ophthalmologist can measure the degree of entropion, check for other inherited eye diseases, and recommend the best treatment plan. Your veterinarian will also ask about your dog's history. They will want to know when signs started, whether they have gotten worse, and whether your dog has any relatives with eye problems. This information helps determine whether the entropion is likely inherited. If you are considering breeding your dog, a screening eye examination can help identify entropion before it becomes severe. Breed clubs and veterinary organizations often recommend these exams for dogs used in breeding programs. ## Treatment Options for Entropion ### Temporary Management For young puppies, veterinarians sometimes recommend temporary tacking procedures. This involves placing sutures to roll the eyelid outward while the puppy grows. A study of 116 dogs found that entropion resolved in 36.6% of eyes treated with temporary tacking, with no further therapy needed [4]. The median age of dogs successfully treated with tacking was younger than those that failed [4]. Temporary tacking is not a permanent fix, but it can buy time for the puppy's face to mature. Some puppies outgrow mild entropion as their skull shape changes. ### Surgical Correction When entropion does not resolve on its own, surgery is the main treatment. The most common procedure is the Hotz-Celsus technique, which removes a strip of skin from the eyelid to roll it back into a normal position [5]. This technique has been used successfully in many species, including a snow leopard cub with entropion [5]. Surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. Your veterinarian will determine the best timing based on your dog's age and the severity of the condition. A study comparing juvenile and adult dogs found no significant difference in recurrence rates between the two groups [4]. That means surgery can be effective whether your dog is young or fully grown. In the Labrador study, 181 of 197 puppies diagnosed with entropion had surgical repair, with a median age of 7.9 weeks at the time of surgery [3]. Repair was corrective in 164 cases (90.61%) with no recurrence [3]. These numbers show that early surgical correction can have excellent outcomes. ### Postoperative Care After surgery, your dog will need time to heal. Your veterinarian will provide specific instructions for wound care, activity restriction, and follow-up visits. Most dogs recover well and show immediate improvement in comfort once the eyelid is corrected. ## Recovery, Outlook, and Long-Term Management The outlook for dogs with entropion is generally good, especially when the condition is treated early. Surgery successfully corrects the problem in most cases, and recurrence is uncommon [3][4]. Some dogs may need additional procedures if the entropion returns or if other eye problems develop. Long-term management may include: - Regular eye examinations to monitor for recurrence or new issues - Keeping the eye area clean and dry - Using lubricating eye drops if your veterinarian recommends them - Avoiding irritants like dust, smoke, or harsh chemicals near the eyes If your dog has other inherited conditions, you may need to manage multiple health issues. Resources like [Australian Cattle Dog Health Problems: Inherited Conditions and Preventive Screenings](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/breed-specific-health/australian-cattle-dog-health-problems-inherited-conditions-and-preventive-screenings) and [Portuguese Water Dog Health Problems: Inherited Conditions and Preventive Screenings](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/breed-specific-health/portuguese-water-dog-health-problems-inherited-conditions-and-preventive-screenings) can help you understand how genetics affect different breeds. Behavioral issues can also appear in dogs from lines with inherited health problems. If you are concerned about anxiety or other behavior traits, see [Is Dog Separation Anxiety Genetic](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/behavior/is-dog-separation-anxiety-genetic) for more information. ## Prevention and Breeding Decisions Prevention starts with responsible breeding. Dogs with entropion should not be bred, because they can pass the trait to their puppies. The Labrador study showed that selective breeding reduced the incidence of entropion by more than half in just a few generations [3]. This is powerful evidence that breeding choices make a difference. If you are buying a puppy, ask the breeder about eye health in the puppy's parents and grandparents. Reputable breeders screen their dogs for inherited eye diseases and can provide documentation. Breed clubs often maintain lists of recommended health tests. For owners of affected dogs, prevention focuses on early detection and treatment. Regular veterinary checkups can catch entropion before it causes serious damage. If your dog has been diagnosed with entropion, talk to your veterinarian about whether any of their relatives should be screened. ## Limitations and When to Contact a Veterinarian Entropion can become an emergency if the cornea is damaged. Contact your veterinarian right away if you notice: - Sudden severe squinting or inability to open the eye - A cloudy or blue spot on the cornea - Yellow or green discharge from the eye - Your dog pawing at the eye constantly - Signs of pain, such as whining or refusing to eat Call your veterinarian the same day if your dog's eye looks red, watery, or irritated, especially if they have a known breed risk. A routine visit is appropriate for mild tearing or occasional squinting that has been present for a few days. Individual cases vary, and only a veterinarian who examines your dog can determine the right treatment. This article is educational and cannot replace a professional evaluation. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Can entropion in dogs be cured? Yes, entropion can usually be corrected with surgery. Most dogs recover fully and do not have recurrence after proper repair. Some puppies outgrow mild entropion with temporary tacking, but surgery is the definitive treatment for most cases. ### At what age does entropion usually appear in dogs? Entropion often appears in puppies within the first few months of life. Some dogs develop it later, especially if the condition is secondary to another eye problem. Your veterinarian can assess your dog's risk based on breed and facial structure. ### Should I breed a dog that has entropion? No, dogs with entropion should not be bred. The condition is hereditary in many breeds, and breeding affected dogs increases the risk in future generations. Responsible breeders screen their dogs and avoid breeding animals with known inherited eye diseases. ### Can diet or supplements prevent entropion? No, diet and supplements do not prevent entropion. The condition is caused by genetics and anatomy, not by nutritional deficiencies. Surgery or temporary tacking are the only effective treatments. ### Is entropion painful for dogs? Yes, entropion is painful. The eyelid hairs rub against the cornea, causing irritation and discomfort. Dogs with entropion often squint, tear excessively, and rub at their eyes. Treatment relieves the pain quickly in most cases. ## Related Articles - [Is Dog Separation Anxiety Genetic](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/behavior/is-dog-separation-anxiety-genetic) - [Australian Cattle Dog Health Problems: Inherited Conditions and Preventive Screenings](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/breed-specific-health/australian-cattle-dog-health-problems-inherited-conditions-and-preventive-screenings) - [Inbred Dog Behavior Problems](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/behavior/inbred-dog-behavior-problems) - [Portuguese Water Dog Health Problems: Inherited Conditions and Preventive Screenings](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/breed-specific-health/portuguese-water-dog-health-problems-inherited-conditions-and-preventive-screenings) - [Old English Sheepdog Health Problems: Inherited Conditions and Preventive Screenings](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/breed-specific-health/old-english-sheepdog-health-problems-inherited-conditions-and-preventive-screenings) - [Shetland Sheepdog Health Problems: Inherited Conditions and Preventive Screenings](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/breed-specific-health/shetland-sheepdog-health-problems-inherited-conditions-and-preventive-screenings) - [Entropion in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes and At-Risk Breeds](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/symptom-guides/entropion-dogs-symptoms-causes) - [Entropion Surgery in Dogs: Recovery, Aftercare and Results](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/vet-visit-decisions/entropion-dog-surgery-recovery) - [Is Addison's Disease in Dogs Hereditary? Genetics Explained](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/endocrine-diseases/addisons-disease-dogs-hereditary) ## References 1. [Prevalences of Known and Presumed Inherited Eye Diseases in Pugs in Germany](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42528303/). Veterinary ophthalmology, 2026. 2. [Common Ophthalmic Conditions in Popular Dog Breeds in Japan: Insights From a Survey of 105 Veterinarians Practicing Ophthalmology](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42231140/). Veterinary ophthalmology, 2026. 3. [Evaluating the Effectiveness of Selective Breeding and Corrective Surgery on Entropion in Labrador Retrievers From a Guide Dog Program](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40999673/). Veterinary ophthalmology, 2026. 4. [Long-term success rate of entropion surgery is equivalent in juvenile and adult dogs](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37562785/). Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 2024. 5. [The first reported case of entropion and surgical correction in a snow leopard cub (Panthera uncia)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40453837/). Open veterinary journal, 2025. ## Further Reading - [Congenital and Inherited Skin Disorders in Dogs - Dog Owners (Merck Veterinary Manual)](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/dog-owners/skin-disorders-of-dogs/congenital-and-inherited-skin-disorders-in-dogs) - [Merck Veterinary Manual: Dog Owners](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/dog-owners) - [Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center: Canine Health Information](https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information)