Dog Ocular Melanoma: What to Know

Ocular melanoma refers to a pigment-producing tumour arising in or around the eye. A dog may develop a darkened area, an uneven iris, a change in pupil shape, cloudiness, redness, tearing, squinting, or reduced vision. Some lesions are found during a routine examination before obvious discomfort appears. Similar signs can come from inflammation, injury, pigment changes, or other growths, so colour alone is not diagnostic. The veterinarian will consider the eye structure involved and whether the change is stable or progressing.

Book a veterinary examination for any new, persistent, or changing eye lesion. Bring photographs and a timeline of changes, including rubbing, discharge, sensitivity to light, or navigation problems. Do not use leftover medication. The assessment may include a detailed eye examination, pressure testing, ultrasound, or other imaging. Depending on the lesion, the plan may involve observation, local surgery, removal of the eye, or eye-directed radiation. [Brachytherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/brachytherapy/) and [Radiotherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/radiotherapy/) are treatment terms to discuss with the veterinary team.

Get prompt veterinary help if the dog has sudden blindness, intense pain, repeated pawing, bleeding, a markedly cloudy eye, sudden swelling, or an eye that cannot close normally. A painful or rapidly changing eye needs timely assessment regardless of whether cancer is suspected.

Ask where the lesion began, whether vision can be preserved, what tests can clarify its nature, and what the likely effects of each treatment are. Clarify how follow-up examinations will monitor the treated eye and what changes require an earlier visit.