What does dry eye refer to in dogs?

Dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), specifically refers to the condition where a dog is unable to produce sufficient tears to keep the eye moist. Tears are vital for maintaining the health of the eye, as they provide necessary lubrication, remove debris, and contain nutrients. When a dog suffers from dry eye, it often leads to discomfort, inflammation, and can result in more serious issues like corneal ulceration if not addressed.

The inability to produce tears means the eye becomes dry and vulnerable, leading to the symptoms associated with this condition, such as redness, excessive blinking, squinting, and discharge. This distinction is crucial for dog owners and groomers to understand, as it can help in recognizing the signs of dry eye early and seeking appropriate veterinary treatment to mitigate further complications related to the condition.