From running and roughhousing to rolling in the dirt, dogs will be dogs—especially during the warm summer months. June through August is peak season for dog park activity, and with that comes a rise in canine eye injuries. Everything from energetic play and flying toys to wind borne dirt and debris can pose risks to your pup’s vision.

Certain breeds, especially those with prominent eyes like Pugs, Shih Tzus, Frenchies and Bulldogs are more vulnerable due to their facial anatomy. Eye injuries can range from minor corneal abrasions to serious trauma such as lacerations or proptosis (displacement of the eyeball) caused by rough play or altercations.
As they say, it’s all fun and games—until someone gets hurt.

To help keep your pet safe (and the dog park drama-free), follow these simple safety and etiquette tips:

Dog Park Etiquette and Safety Tips

  • Supervise Constantly – Always keep an eye on your dog to prevent rough housing from escalating into injuries or fights.
  • Use Safe Toys – Choose soft, appropriately sized toys to avoid blunt force trauma. Small, dense balls can cause serious eye injuries, including globe rupture that may require surgical removal of the eye (enucleation).
  • Stay Up to Date on Health – Ensure your dog’s vaccinations and flea/tick preventatives are current to help prevent infections, including those that affect the eyes.
  • Hydrate and Seek Shade – Provide clean water and shade to prevent heat stress, which can make dogs more irritable during play in minor cases, and can be life-threatening in severe cases.
  • Avoid Peak Times – Visit during early mornings or late evenings to avoid the heat and reduce the chances of overcrowding or aggression.

If a Fight Breaks Out

If a fight erupts, stay calm and prioritize safety—yours and your dog’s. Don’t insert your hands or feet between fighting dogs, as bites may be redirected. Use loud noises, a water spray or a barrier (like a jacket) to break it up if needed.

Ocular trauma is a preventable yet common summertime risk for dogs. By staying vigilant and practicing good dog park etiquette, you can help ensure that playtime remains fun—and safe—for everyone.

Common Dog Park-Related Ocular Injuries

  • Corneal Abrasions
    Scratches on the surface of the eye, often from rough play, dirt or plant material.
  • Corneal Ulcers
    Deeper damage to the cornea that can result from untreated abrasions or trauma.
  • Conjunctivitis (“Pink Eye”)
    Inflammation of the conjunctiva, often caused by dust, allergens or infectious agents.
  • Foreign Body in the Eye
    Debris like sand, grass or wood chips can lodge in the eye, causing irritation and potential damage.
  • Proptosis
    Displacement of the eyeball from the socket, often due to blunt force trauma or fights; more common in brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds.
  • Hyphemia
    Bleeding inside the eye, typically caused by blunt trauma or high-impact collisions.
  • Globe Rupture
    A severe injury involving a tear or break in the eyeball, often irreversible and requiring surgical removal (enucleation).

Animal Vision Center of Virginia
Providing quality ophthalmic care for animals of all shapes and sizes, Animal Vision Center of Virginia has practices in Chesapeake and Virginia Beach. Their care team provides the highest level of technology, education, skill and compassion, from consultation to complete ophthalmic services. Learn more at: aninmalvisioncenterva.com.