The Complete Guide to the Schirmer Tear Test for Dogs — Key to Early Detection of Dry Eye

Eye HealthDiseasesMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

The Schirmer tear test for dogs measures tear production and helps identify the cause of dry eyes or excessive tearing. Regular testing is essential for maintaining eye health.

The Schirmer Tear Test for Dogs Is a Diagnostic Method That Measures Tear Production

A veterinarian placing a Schirmer tear test strip on a puppy's eye

The Schirmer tear test for dogs is a diagnostic method that quantitatively measures tear production. It is essential for determining whether tear production is adequate when a dog shows signs of ocular discomfort. This test is particularly recommended if the eyes appear dry or if there are recurring signs of irritation around the eyes. The veterinarian places a specially calibrated absorbent paper strip in the lower conjunctival sac and measures how far it becomes moistened after 60 seconds. The result is expressed in millimeters per minute, allowing for an assessment of tear production. Additional tests, such as fluorescein staining, may also be performed as needed.

The Main Causes of Abnormal Tear Production Are Structural Eye Abnormalities and Diseases

Abnormal tear production in dogs can result from structural eye abnormalities or issues with the tear glands and nerves. Common examples include entropion, where the eyelid rolls inward, and trichiasis, in which eyelashes or hairs irritate the cornea. Additionally, if the nasolacrimal duct is blocked or its flow is obstructed, tears cannot drain properly and may overflow. Dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), characterized by reduced tear production, is most commonly caused by immune-mediated disease, but it can also arise from certain medications (sulfonamides, etodolac, atropine), congenital factors, trauma, or neurological causes. Meanwhile, light-colored or white-coated breeds may show more prominent tear staining due to pigmentation in the fur, which can be part of the clinical presentation.

Anatomical diagram of the tear secretion system in a dog's eye

Main Symptoms Include Excessive Tearing, Tear Stains, Eye Redness, and Fur Pigmentation

When your dog’s tear production or drainage is disrupted, it can lead to dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) from insufficient tear production, or conversely, excessive tearing due to poor drainage. Persistent tearing and visible tear stains around the eyes are common signs. You may also notice redness or increased eye-rubbing. In dogs with light or white coats, tears can stain the fur brown, a condition known as “tear staining.” While this may seem like a cosmetic issue, it can actually signal an underlying problem with the tear film. Constant moisture from tearing can also soften the surrounding skin, leading to moist dermatitis. If these symptoms persist, a veterinary diagnostic evaluation is recommended.

The appearance around the eyes of a puppy with tear stains

If Excessive Tearing Is Accompanied by Eye Redness, Pain, or Vision Loss, Immediate Veterinary Visit Is Required

If your pet’s eyes are persistently watery, red, or if they’re rubbing or squinting more than usual, or if their vision seems impaired, seek veterinary care immediately. These symptoms could indicate corneal damage, keratitis, or inflammation of the front part of the eye. Left untreated, these conditions can lead to vision loss, so prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential. In some cases, long fur may obstruct the eyes, or tear drainage may be misdirected, causing irritation. A veterinarian needs to identify the exact cause and begin appropriate treatment.

Diagnosis Is Performed Through the Schirmer Tear Test, Structural Eye Examination, and Imaging If Necessary

The Schirmer tear test is the most fundamental diagnostic tool for assessing abnormal tear production in dogs. A calibrated strip is placed in the conjunctival sac for one minute, and the length of the wetted area is measured; the normal range for dogs is approximately 15–20 mm/minute. In addition, direct examination of eyelid position, eyelash placement, and corneal condition is necessary. A Jones test (nasolacrimal duct patency test) using fluorescein dye may also be performed to check for blockage of the nasolacrimal duct. If needed, imaging studies such as radiography, B-mode ultrasonography, CT, or MRI may be considered. Together, these tests help identify the precise cause of tear deficiency or drainage abnormalities. Diagnosis is not based on a single test but rather on a comprehensive evaluation.

A veterinarian examining a dog's eyes with a slit lamp

Treatment Is Divided Into Medication, Surgery, and Management Depending on the Cause

Treating tear-related issues in dogs depends on the underlying cause. Dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), characterized by insufficient tear production, is managed with lubricants such as artificial tears, along with medications like cyclosporine, tacrolimus, or topical corticosteroids. When the cause is neurological, pilocarpine may be used, gradually increasing the dose to restore tear secretion. If epiphora (excessive tearing) is caused by entropion, surgical correction of the eyelid is performed; if eyelashes or hairs are irritating the cornea, cryoepilation is used to permanently remove the problematic hairs. In some cases, canthoplasty, a procedure to reduce the eyelid opening, may also be considered. After surgery, systemic antibiotics or antibiotic eye drops are administered to prevent infection. Treatment should begin by addressing the root cause, rather than simply reducing tear production.

A puppy wearing a protective collar after surgery

At-Home Care Consists of Cleaning Around the Eyes, Grooming Fur, and Regular Examinations

Tear-related issues in dogs require diligent at-home care. Gently wipe the area around your dog’s eyes daily with a soft cloth. Since tear-stained fur can easily harbor bacteria, regular grooming is essential, and keeping the hair around the eyes trimmed short is particularly recommended. Routine Schirmer tear tests are also advised. If excessive tearing persists, use artificial tears or eye drops recommended by your veterinarian. Avoid exposing your dog to eye-irritating chemicals or perfumes. Proper care goes beyond simple cleaning; it is a long-term commitment to maintaining your dog’s eye health.

Breeds With Lots of Hair Around the Eyes, Such as Poodles, Chartreux, and Terriers, Require Attention to Tear Issues

In dogs with light or white coats, tear staining appears more prominently as brown discoloration when tears soak into the fur. While this may seem like a purely cosmetic concern, it can actually signal an underlying issue with the tear film. For these dogs, it is essential to regularly groom the hair around the eyes and keep the area clean. If excessive tearing persists, a Schirmer tear test is important to assess tear production. In cases of severe staining, it is crucial to identify and manage contributing irritants such as trichiasis. Early diagnosis and consistent care are highly effective preventive measures.

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Schirmer tear test hurt?

Not at all. The test is non-invasive and causes minimal discomfort for your dog. They may feel the strip touching their eye, but there’s virtually no pain.

When should you take your pet to the vet for excessive tearing?

If your pet’s eyes are constantly tearing up, appear red, or they’re rubbing them frequently, it’s important to visit the vet right away. These could be signs of potential eye damage.

Can tear stains be treated?

Tear stains themselves don’t require treatment, but addressing the underlying excessive tearing can help reduce or even eliminate them. Identifying and treating the root cause is key.

What are some ways to manage tear staining at home?

Gently wipe the area around your pet’s eyes daily with a soft cloth, and keep the surrounding fur trimmed short to help prevent irritation. Use artificial tears only as directed by your veterinarian.

What should I do if the Schirmer test result is low?

Low tear production often indicates dry eye. Your veterinarian may prescribe artificial tears or medications that stimulate tear production. Identifying the underlying cause is the first step.

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References

[1] Gelatt KN et al. (2013). Veterinary Ophthalmology, 2nd ed. Wiley-Blackwell, Oxford, UK.

[2] Esson DW and Calvarese S (2022). Clinical Atlas of Canine and Feline Ophthalmic Disease, 2nd ed. John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

[3] Ny Y et al. (2006). Medial canthoplasty for epiphora in dogs: a retrospective study of 23 cases. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association, 42(5), 435–439.