When you come in contact with a Goldendoodle – have you ever noticed those long goldendoodle eyelashes?…

In my opinion they are so distinctive. Simply striking.

The Boys have only had a few groomers in their lives but on that first visit, every one of them will ask me the same question –

You don’t want his eyelashes trimmed, do you?

I – along with most of the doodle parent population will quickly respond with an immediate “no.”

Th majority of us seem to like them long.

WHY SOME AND NOT OTHERS? –

Dogs need eyelashes to protect their eyes from debris like humans do. No one specific breed is known for having the longest lashes.

However –

a dog’s eyelash length is determined by the length of his fur. Source: Pets.thenet

Long haired dogs tend to have longer lashes to keep the strands away from the surface of their eyes.

On rare occasions you may see short-haired dogs with long lashes, but often it’s his size and shape that make the lashes “appear” longer when they’re really average length.

EYELASH DISORDERS –

There is such a thing!

From –

• Trichlasis – in-growth of the eyelashes
• Distichiasis – grows from an abnormal spot on the eyelid
• Ectopic cilla – single or multiple hairs that grow through the inside of the eyelid

All of these conditions are commonly seen in younger dogs, but dogs of any age or breed can be affected and left unattended may cause damage with the cornea of the eye.

To learn more about these disorders and their symptoms, visit pet disorders in dogs by PetMD

TO TRIM OR NOT TO TRIM –

For me that is the question!

Saturday they are both scheduled for haircuts.

While Jaxson’s lashes are between 2-3 inches long, they do not bother him.

Since his hair grows longer and flops in his face, I’d rather keep his lashes long to protect his eyes…

Harley’s lashes however, are shorter – yet he can barely see…

Lately his lashes seem to have changed direction and are now growing sideways. It’s as if he has a veil in front of his eyes…

He’s not bumping into walls or anything, I just wonder if it’s obstructing his vision.

I’ve examined Harley’s eyes well, and with the exception of his lashes facing one another, there doesn’t seem to be anything wrong. They’re just doing their own thing!

PROCEEDING WITH CAUTION –

I am uncomfortable with my ability to “safely” trim Harley’s eyelashes myself. Therefore, I will leave it up to the professionals.

Periodic eyelash checks for loose eyelashes in or around their eyes will be a new part of my life. A loose eyelash in your eye – can make a grown person cry. Can’t imagine how painful that must be for a dog with only a paw at his disposal to remove it.

If you notice your dog pawing at his eye, or the eye looks swollen, increased tearing or abnormal eye twitching, consult your veterinarian immediately.

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