Ectroppion
ENTROPION & ECTROPION IN SAINT BERNARDS
Understanding Correct Eye Shape and Common Eyelid Problems
What Should a Saint Bernard’s Eye Look Like?
The correct Saint Bernard eye is often described by breeders as a “skewed diamond” shape. An easy way to visualize this is to place the thumb and forefinger of both hands together. The diamond shape formed in the middle closely resembles the ideal Saint Bernard eye.
A correct eye should:
✓ Be medium-sized
✓ Be neither deep-set nor protruding
✓ Have tight-fitting eyelids
✓ Show little or no visible pink tissue (haw)
✓ Create a calm, intelligent, friendly expression
✓ Follow the characteristic skewed diamond shape
FCI Breed Standard Description
According to the FCI Breed Standard for the Saint Bernard:
“Eyes moderately large, dark brown to hazel in colour, moderately deep-set with a friendly expression. Eyelids should fit closely. Complete closure of the eyelids is desirable. A small wrinkle of the lower eyelid with a little conjunctiva visible is permitted, as well as a slight wrinkle of the upper eyelid.”
In simple terms:
The breed standard allows a small amount of lower eyelid looseness, but excessive drooping, excessive haw showing, or rolled eyelids are faults and should not be considered normal for the breed.
What is Ectropion?
Ectropion = Eyelids Rolling Outward
With ectropion, the lower eyelid droops away from the eye, exposing the delicate pink tissue inside.
Signs of Ectropion
• Visible pink tissue (haw)
• Lower eyelid hangs down
• Excessive tearing
• Dust and debris collect in the eye
• Frequent eye infections
• Redness and irritation
Why Does It Happen?
Ectropion commonly develops when:
• Excessive loose skin develops around the head
• Muzzles become shorter than intended by the breed standard
• Heads become overly exaggerated and heavy
• Facial skin loses support for the eyelids
In many cases, it is hereditary and linked to breeding away from the correct Saint Bernard structure.
What is Entropion?
Entropion = Eyelids Rolling Inward
With entropion, the eyelid rolls inward and the eyelashes rub directly against the eye.
This is usually far more painful than ectropion.
Signs of Entropion
• Squinting
• Excessive blinking
• Watery eyes
• Pawing at the face
• Sensitivity to light
• Eye discharge
• Corneal ulcers
Because the eyelashes constantly scrape the eye, permanent damage can occur if left untreated.
Why Do These Conditions Develop?
The Saint Bernard was originally developed as a functional working dog.
When breeders select for:
✗ Extremely short muzzles
✗ Excessive head wrinkles
✗ Heavy facial skin
✗ Overly exaggerated heads
the skin around the eyes may no longer fit correctly.
The result can be:
• Entropion (rolling inward)
• Ectropion (rolling outward)
• Sometimes both conditions in the same dog
This is why responsible breeders strive to remain close to the breed standard and avoid exaggerated features.
How to Self-Diagnose
Check for Ectropion
Stand in front of your dog and look directly at the eyes.
Ask:
✓ Can I see large amounts of pink tissue?
✓ Does the lower eyelid sag away from the eye?
✓ Does the eye appear “open” underneath?
If yes, ectropion may be present.
Check for Entropion
Look for:
✓ Excessive tearing
✓ Squinting or blinking
✓ Eye discharge
✓ Rubbing at the face
Gently examine the eyelid.
If the eyelashes appear to touch the eye surface, entropion may be present.
When Should You See a Vet?
Seek veterinary attention if you notice:
• Pain
• Persistent tearing
• Redness
• Cloudiness of the eye
• Eye ulcers
• Repeated infections
Eye problems can worsen quickly and may lead to permanent vision damage.
Treatment Options
Mild Ectropion
May be managed with:
• Lubricating eye drops
• Artificial tears
• Keeping eyes clean and free of debris
• Monitoring for infections
Severe Ectropion
May require:
• Corrective eyelid surgery
• Removal of excess eyelid tissue
• Reconstruction of the lower eyelid
Mild Entropion
Temporary treatments may include:
• Lubricating eye ointments
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Monitoring in growing puppies
Some puppies improve as the head develops.
Severe Entropion
Usually requires surgery.
The procedure removes a small section of skin, allowing the eyelid to return to its normal position and preventing the eyelashes from rubbing against the eye.
Success rates are generally excellent when treated early.
Breeder’s Note
A Saint Bernard should have a kind, intelligent expression with eyes that are functional and healthy.
While a slight amount of lower eyelid looseness is permitted by the breed standard, excessive haw, severe drooping eyelids, or rolled eyelids should never be considered desirable. These conditions are often associated with exaggerated head structure and can significantly affect a dog’s comfort and long-term eye health.
The goal should always be:
Correct structure • Correct expression • Correct function
Because healthy eyes are far more important than exaggerated appearance.
Gwenevre Saints
Breeding for Health, Type, Temperament and Function