Why do humans have eyelashes? You may or may not know that the purpose of the eyelash is to protect the eye from dust, debris, and other such particles. They also communicate with our eyelids! In effect ‘telling’ them to close if something harmful is close by. Finally, in conjunction with our eyebrows and forehead, they help to protect our eyes from strong sunlight.
“But I’m on a dog website,” we can hear you exclaim! “Why am I reading about human eyelashes?” The simple answer, dear reader, is that your Cavapoo has eyelashes for the same reasons that you do. The question we endeavor to answer is how long are they?
The length of a Cavapoo’s coat can determine the length of their eyelashes. A dog with longer fur will typically have longer eyelashes than their shorter-haired cousins. This is to protect their eyes from their facial hair as well as dirt, dust, and other particles.
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What Breeds of Dogs Have Long Lashes?
There are no specific lists of which dogs have longer eyelashes. In fact, most have short ones. Those that do have longer eyelashes tend to be breeds with longer fur such as the Old English Sheepdog, Cocker Spaniel, and Lhasa Apso.
Dogs with longer fur have longer eyelashes in order to help keep it out of their eyes. As we all know, the eye is delicate and even your Cavapoo’s hair can cause irritation or even damage if it scratches the surface.
FUN FACT: The world record for the longest eyelashes on a dog is held by Australian Labradoodle Ranmaru. Ranmaru is from Toyko in Japan and on 4th September 2014 when he was 3 years and 8 months old his right eyelash measured a very impressive 6.69 inches.
Should you Cut a Dog’s Eyelashes?
Your Cavapoo’s eyelashes shouldn’t be cut as a matter of course. As we have already explained they are there for a purpose and if they are cut too short then the eye becomes at risk of injury or even infection. However, sometimes the eyelash can grow too long. This in itself can cause problems for your Cavapoo.
In some cases, if the eyelashes are too long it can hinder your dog’s ability to see. This is unusual as it would normally be their fur that would need a trim to keep it out of the eyes, but it can happen and it’s worth knowing.
Another issue with the eyelashes growing too long is that they can begin to turn back on themselves. This poses a risk of the eyelash folding back into the eye itself. Causing the very problem that it should be protecting against.
In both of these cases then you either need to trim your Cavapoo’s eyelashes or you will need to have it done professionally by your groomer. If you do choose to cut them yourself, you need to be very careful and you need a cooperative pooch. If your Cavapoo isn’t happy with the procedure or you don’t have a steady hand, then you could end up poking them in the eye with the scissors which in itself is dangerous.
Start by combing your Cavapoo’s eyelashes so that they are not clogged together. You will need to cut at an angle starting from the outside and working towards the nose. A small pair of scissors will be most effective in doing the job. You can buy these and eyebrow combs from the grooming section of most pet stores.
Will my Cavapoo’s Eyelashes Grow Back?
Don’t worry. If you have to cut your Cavapoo’s eyelashes for any of the reasons we have discussed, or they should accidentally be cut whilst being groomed then they will grow back. Typically, this will take anywhere between 3 and 6 weeks.
How to Care for your Cavapoo’s Eyelashes
There isn’t actually a great deal that you need to do. There is the trimming we have spoken about already or arranging of the trimming should it be necessary. You should also regularly check their eyes for dirt and debris. The occasional eyelash may also find its way into the eye, just like it does with us humans.
Hopefully, if this happens you may be able to gently wipe it out remembering to not be too invasive or it may work its way out naturally. However, should your Cavapoo show any signs of being uncomfortable or the eye becomes swollen or produces excess tears then you will need to consult your vet’s office in the first instance.
Eyelash Complications
There are, as with anything conditions relating specifically relating to the eyelashes that could potentially cause your Cavapoo problems. These include:
Distichiasis
Distichiasis is a fairly common and hereditary condition in dogs. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are one breed who are prone to Distichiasis so it should be something to look out for with your Cavapoo. The Greek translation of Distichiasis is ‘two rows’ and is exhibited by the growth of extra eyelashes from the gland opening.
Severity can vary. The extra lashes may cause your Cavapoo no problems at all which would in turn require no treatment. However, where the Distichiasis is causing an issue for your dog varying treatments may be required. This could be topical, plucking, or even surgery.
Symptoms to be wary of are swelling, irritation, and involuntary contractions or twitching. Your Cavapoo may paw at their eyes, be noticeably agitated, or show signs of discomfort or they may even be unable to open the affected eye.
Ectopic Cilia
Ectopic means ‘in an abnormal place or position’ and cilia are hairs. Ectopic Cilia are simply eyelashes that are growing in the wrong place on the eye. This usually occurs on the upper middle eyelid and can cause pain, irritation, and even ulcers as the hairs rub on the cornea.
Golden Retrievers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Border Collies are just some breeds who have been recorded as having greater instances of Ectopic Cilia. Including the Cavapoo these are all popular second parent breeds for the Doodle is certainly a condition that you should have on your radar.
Treatment is usually surgical although freezing is sometimes also used to kill the offending follicle. Long term prognosis after treatment is typically favorable although reoccurrence can sometimes happen.
Trichiasis
Trichiasis is an ingrowing eyelash. Epiphora (excessive tearing) and staining are two common symptoms of Trichiasis. The follicles can be frozen to prevent reoccurrence in particularly problematic instances. The Shih Tzu is one breed which is more likely to develop Trichiasis due to the length of their facial hair. Toy and Miniature Poodles are also prone to congenital Trichiasis.