Does your dog like to stick their head out of the window on car rides? Do they ride with you on your motorcycle or in your sidecar? Does your dog experience seizures when exposed to sunlight or have a medical condition that puts their eyes at risk? Dog goggles could be just what they need.
What Are Dog Goggles?
Dog goggles are eyewear for dogs. Lenses in these can be clear or tinted, depending on your dog’s needs. Most have straps attached to allow the goggles to stay on your dog’s head. They also have UV resistance to protect your dog’s eyes from the harmful effects of the sun.
Who Should Use Dog Goggles?
There are a variety of reasons why you may want to use dog goggles.
- Medical Conditions.
- Pannus or Chronic Superficial Keratitis. This is a condition prominent in German Shepherds but can occur in any breed. It is a hereditary condition affecting the cornea of the eyes. UV light can exacerbate the condition and if left untreated, can cause blindness.
- Seizures. Some types can be exacerbated by exposure to sunlight.
- Blindness. Dog goggles can help prevent your dog from injuring their eyes due to walking into objects or tree branches.
- Bulging eyes. Dogs with bulging eyes, like brachycepahlic breeds, are more prone to eye injury and goggles can help protect them.
- Due to certain medical conditions, some dogs may find it difficult or even scary to be out in the sun. Dog goggles can help reduce the glare of the sun and make it more comfortable for your dog to be outside.
- Protection from debris. If your dog sticks their head out of the window when they are in the car or they ride with you on a motorcycle, dirt and debris from the road can get into and damage their eyes.
- Wind protection. Dog goggles can protect their eyes from the wind so they can keep their eyes open throughout the ride.
- Sports. If you and your dog are very active outdoors, goggles can help prevent damage to their eyes from the elements (sand, wind, dirt, mud, tree branches, etc.).
What Should I Look For When Choosing Dog Goggles?
- Size. Measure your dog’s muzzle and around your dog’s head. Choose the correct size based on the manufacturer’s instructions and size chart.
- Style. Some goggles are open, like ski goggles and others are around each eye, like a swimming goggle. Determine which style would fit and be more comfortable for your dog.
- Straps. Most goggles have 2 straps: one that goes around your dog’s head and one that goes around their muzzle. This is to keep them secured onto your dog. Look for straps that are adjustable to better fit your dog’s head and face shape.
- Fit. Goggles should be large enough to cover your dog’s eyes but not so small it impedes their vision. The strap around the muzzle should secure them but also allow for your dog to move their mouth, allowing for easy eating and drinking. The lens of the goggles should not touch your dog’s eyes, causing discomfort. This is especially important for dogs with bulging eyes.
- Lenses. Determine the type of lens your dog needs. Clear lenses are good for dogs that will use the goggles indoors or during night walks or drives. Tinted lenses are better when your dog will be outdoors in the sun or snow.
- UV protection. If your dog will be using their goggles outdoors, UV protection is a must, especially if your dog has a medical condition that is exacerbated by UV rays of the sun.
- Cushioning. Good cushioning around the eyes of the goggles will make them more comfortable for your dog to wear.
Can My Dog Wear Goggles In The Water?
Most dog goggles are waterproof and can be worn when your dog goes into the water, HOWEVER, these are NOT the same as human goggles. They will not prevent water from going inside the frame.
How Do I Train My Dog To Wear Them?
Most dogs will paw at and try to take their goggles off, but with time, patience, and a little training they will be wearing them like a pro.
Start out putting the goggles on for a minute or two. If you are able to take the lenses out of the goggles, start by training your dog without them to avoid any damage to the lenses. Gradually add the length of time they wear the goggles, all the while praising them and giving them treats.
Eventually, your dog will associate them with something positive and won’t mind wearing them.
The Best Dog Goggles
The following are some dog goggles you may want to try. All of the ones listed have the same pros: they offer UV protection, are easy to get on and off, and have adjustable straps. Any additional features will be listed and if there are any cons to be aware of for each one.
Best Overall
Rex Specs
Features:
- Available in 6 sizes.
- Each comes with 2 lenses: a clear lens and one of your choice: smoke, red mirror, silver mirror, blue mirror.
- Additional lenses can be purchased from the Rex Specs website.
- Training instructions are included and videos are available on their website.
Cons:
- Users reported they scratch easily.
- These do not come with a carrying case.
Doggles
Features:
- Extra wide nose bridge.
- Anti-fog.
- Shatterproof lenses.
- Padded frame.
- Can change the lenses if needed.
Cons:
- Blocks peripheral vision.
- Nose piece may be too large for some dogs.
Best For Large Breed Dogs
NAMSAN Dog Goggles
Features:
- Waterproof.
- Windproof.
- Dustproof.
- Snowproof.
- Comes with a carrying case.
- Lightweight.
Cons:
- Lens sits close to the eyes of some dogs.
- Scratch easily.
- No replacement lens.
- No inner padding.
- Lens very dark.
PETLESO Large Dog Goggles
Features:
- Foldable.
- Soft foam around lenses.
- Available in 3 colors.
- Dustproof.
- Windproof.
- Snow proof.
Cons:
- Inside padding comes off easily.
UNITRIP Pet Dog UV Sunglasses
Features:
- Wide nose bridge.
- Wind resistant.
- Water resistant.
- Sponge lining the lens.
Cons:
- Move out of place if your dog shakes their head too vigorously.
Best For Small Breed Dogs
NAMSAN Dog Goggles For Small Breed
Features:
- Best for long snout small dogs.
- Available in 2 colors.
- Vented.
- Soft frame.
- Anti dust.
- Windproof.
- Snowproof.
- Storage case included.
Cons:
- Scratch easily.
PEDOMUS Dog Goggles
Features:
- Good for small and medium dogs.
- Padding around the lenses.
- Windproof.
- Anti fog.
- Shatterproof.
- Nose piece adjusts for better fit.
Cons:
- Straps are very long.
- Runs big.
PETLESO Small Dog Goggles
Features:
- Foam padding around the inside of the frame.
- Windproof.
- Waterproof.
- Middle is bendable for a more secure fit.
Cons:
- Runs big.
Dog goggles can be advantageous for your dog to wear. They can provide protection against UV rays that can exacerbate medical conditions. Goggles can help your dog avoid damage to their eyes from dirt, debris, and environmental hazards and provide a more joyous outdoor experience for your dog.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.