Question 1

Why does my dog need sunglasses?

Accepted Answer

Dogs need sunglasses to help protect the eyes from the glare of the sun. This is especially true for certain breeds of dogs that are prone to developing pannus as well as other forms of eye damage secondary to sun exposure. Dog goggles, on the other hand, also protect the dog’s eyes against debris or particles that may be carried by the wind as well as smoke and pollution and other objects that may come in contact with the surface of the eyes.

Question 2

How to train a dog to wear sunglasses?

Accepted Answer

Not all dogs like the idea of having a contraption right in front of their eyes and wrapped around their heads. However, if you’re able to properly train your pet you’ll find that it will not resist you once you attempt to put it on its head. To do this, you need to introduce the sunglasses or goggles slowly, making sure that your pet accepts it as a natural part of its personal items. Put the goggles onto your pet’s head and offer praises if it will not attempt to get it off. Be ready with your treats so it associates the wearing of the goggles with something pleasurable. Bring your dog outside, but most especially when the sun is shining brightly. It should immediately notice the difference between having the goggles or sunglasses on and not wearing them at all. Be patient in doing this routine many times. It needs to associate wearing the sunglasses as a naturally good thing for it.

Question 3

Are dog sunglasses/goggles safe for everyday use?

Accepted Answer

Sunglasses should only be worn outside where there’s the sun. Indoors, they’re best taken off. However, if there is a medical need for wearing canine goggles or sunglasses and as long as you have trained your dog to use it, then it should be fine for your pet to use it indoors and on a daily basis. However, it is important to check with your vet because you also don’t want the eyewear to adversely affect your dog’s activities of daily living. For dogs that will benefit from the medical indications of goggles or sunglasses, it is best to keep wearing these until the health problem has been resolved or until the vet deems fit.

Question 4

Can I replace the lenses on my dog’s sunglasses?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the dog sunglasses or goggles that you bought, you can or cannot replace the lenses. For instance, goggles that come with the interchangeable lens system actually allow you to easily replace the lens anytime to suit a particular purpose. For instance, if the sun is already setting, there clearly is no need for a dark-colored lens. Instead, you need something clearer or more transparent. Interchangeable lens systems give you the versatility to replace the lenses instantly. Sadly, not all dog sunglasses come with such a design. You can still replace the lenses, however, but you will need an appropriately-sized lens that matches the frame.