The Eyes Have It

Dogs are mammals like us but their eyes are quite different including a third eyelid.  And while we can see great during the day, fido has no problem navigation in the dark. No night-vision goggles necessary.

The tapetum is a reflective surface behind their retina which enhances low-light vision.  This is why their eyes seem to light up in e.g. the head lights or torch light at night.

Although we are better at defining detail and differentiating colours our dog’s capacity for spotting moving objects is finely tuned.  And along with a superb nose and hearing he can often anticipate us before we arrive.

The third eyelid dogs have is a nictitating membrane (also called a haw) and it appears beneath the lower lid from the inner part of the eye. We think this is for extra protection and also to help fight infection as it contains lymphoid tissue.  They help keep the eye moist and even allow the dog to continue to see in a wind or sand storm or moments when prey could escape in the blink of an eye.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)