Vet reveals what your dog really thinks when you clean their eye boogie – explains why they tolerate it

On Instagram, creator Jessica Fowler, who has a dedicated account for her whippet Kevin, under the handle @kevthewhip, posted a light-hearted video asking a simple question that got people talking: What do dogs think when we clean the gunk from their eyes? The video features Jessica cleaning Kev’s eyes with a gauze pad with overlay text that reads, “Hey Siri, does my dog know that I’m cleaning out his eye boogers or does he think I just like poking him in the corneas for fun all the time?” The topic quickly went viral, prompting both dog owners and experts to weigh in, including a UK-based veterinarian, Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, who shared her professional perspective with The Focus.

Dr. Joanna Woodnutt clarifies, “It’s impossible to tell what dogs are thinking. The first, second, and third time you likely clean your dog’s eyes, they’ll wonder what on earth you’re doing–which is why it’s important to do it carefully to keep yourself and your dog safe.” Dr. Woodnutt compares this to how humans feel better after removing an irritant from their own eyes. Over time, dogs associate the routine with feeling better and come to tolerate or even appreciate it, especially if owners pair the cleaning with positive reinforcement like treats.

Eye discharge in dogs, often referred to as "eye boogers," is a common occurrence. It usually results from minor irritants such as dust, pollen, or exposure to wind, but it can also be a sign of an underlying issue. However, yellow or green colored discharge can indicate chronic infection. Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer for the AKC, explains that if only one eye is affected, it's likely due to an infection or inflammation, while allergies usually impact both eyes.

Cleaning your dog’s eyes is best done with care and the right tools. Dr. Woodnutt recommends using a cotton make-up pad soaked in cooled boiled water. Owners should hold the dog’s nose gently and wipe over the eyes, taking extra time to soften and loosen any crusted discharge before removal. Owners should watch for changes in the frequency, color, or amount of discharge, along with any redness or swelling, and consult a veterinarian if these symptoms continue. Meanwhile, a calm and patient approach helps dogs associate the routine with comfort rather than discomfort. With consistent care, dogs learn to trust that their owners’ interventions are meant for their benefit.

Ultimately, dogs, much like people, can feel discomfort and relief and are capable of learning routines that benefit them. Although we cannot know with certainty what goes through a dog’s mind, combining empathy with science allows us to improve their daily lives. By approaching eye cleaning as an act of care and comfort, and by paying attention to any changes that could signal health issues, pet owners can keep their companions healthy and happy, ensuring that routine tasks also become moments of connection and trust.

For more dog content, follow @kevthewhip on Instagram.