ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Corneal dystrophies in dogs

Alright kiddo, let's talk about corneal dystrophies in dogs. First, let's talk about what the cornea is. Have you ever looked closely at your eye in the mirror? The clear part in the front is the cornea! It's like a clear window that helps your eye see.

Now, sometimes dogs can have problems with their cornea. These problems are called corneal dystrophies. This means that there are some changes in the clear part of the eye that make it less clear.

There are different types of corneal dystrophies in dogs. The most common ones are called epithelial basement membrane dystrophy (EBMD) and endothelial dystrophy. EBMD is when the bottom layer of the cornea gets thicker, making it harder for your dog to see. Endothelial dystrophy is when the layer of cells at the back of the cornea stops working properly.

But don't worry, corneal dystrophies in dogs aren't always serious. In fact, many dogs with corneal dystrophies can still see fairly well and lead happy lives. If a dog has a more serious corneal dystrophy, their veterinarian might recommend treatments like eye drops or surgery.

Remember, if you ever notice anything abnormal with your dog's eyes, it's always best to talk to your veterinarian. They can help make sure your dog's eyes stay healthy and happy!