• The Weimaraner breed was developed in Germany.weimaraner image by Emilio Maull from Fotolia.com
  
  Weimaraners are a large-breed dog. They are strong-willed, demanding animals, but they are also unswervingly devoted to their human families. Weimaraners have a number of genetic health problems that affect their eyes. A veterinarian can diagnose the specific condition and can recommend a method of treatment.
  
  

Corneal Dermoid Cyst

• According to the Weimaraner Club of America, Weimaraners are occasionally born with a disorder called corneal dermoid cysts, or dermoids. These cysts are a type of developmental abnormality called choristoma. In other words, cells that are normal to one area of the body are growing in a place where they don't belong. Dermoid cysts partially cover the surface of the cornea. They contain skin tissue, hair follicles, hair and sweat glands. This disorder can affect either or both eyes, and it causes chronic watery eyes and discharge. Dermoid cysts are surgically removed as soon as the puppy is mature enough for anesthetic.
  
  

Nictitating Membrane Prolapse

• Nictitating membrane prolapse is more commonly known as cherry eye. This condition commonly affects Weimaraners as well as other large breed dogs. The Canine Inherited Disorders Database describes cherry eye as a condition that occurs when the tear gland that is supposed to be held back by cartilage moves up and can be seen above and around the third eyelid, which is the small triangle-shaped structure in the inside corner of the dog's eyes. The gland becomes red and inflamed, which is why it is called cherry eye. The disorder causes a long-term condition called keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or dry eye, if it is left untreated. Cherry eye is treated through surgery.
  
  

Distichiasis

• The Weimaraner Club of Scotland explains that distichiasis is a condition where abnormal hair growth occurs on the edge of the eyelid. The severity of the condition varies between dogs. Some dogs grow thin, fine, barely noticeable hairs, while others are long and stiff. This condition can be seen in even very young Weimaraners. The breed tends to grow long coarse hairs. The hair frequently causes irritation to the dog's eyes depending upon the angle that the hair grows. Some dogs blink more frequently, only open their eyes part of the way, or experience constant tearing. This disorder is usually treated by removing the hairs through surgery, electrolysis or cryotherapy.
  
  

Entropion

• Weimaraners are genetically susceptible to entropion, a condition where part of the eyelid folds inward. The dog's hair and eyelashes rub and scratch against the cornea, which causes the eyes to become swollen and inflamed. Some of the symptoms of entropion are a discharge of pus or mucus from the eyes. Sometimes the cornea will ulcerate rupture. This condition usually becomes apparent by the time the dog is a year old. A veterinarian will address the secondary issues first, such as treating any infections that have developed. The condition is treated through medication and surgery.