Vet’s 2025 Guide to Canine Sjögren‑Like Syndrome 🩺 Dry Eye & Mouth Support

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

💡 What Is Sjögren‑Like Syndrome?

Sjögren‑like syndrome in dogs is a rare, immune‑mediated disorder where antibodies target lacrimal and salivary glands, causing dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) and dry mouth (xerostomia).

True Sjögren’s, as seen in humans, is almost never confirmed in dogs, but similar conditions with gland inflammation have been reported.

🚩 Why It Happens & Breeds at Risk

• Likely autoimmune: immune cells infiltrate glandular tissue, disrupting tear and saliva secretion.
• Reported in various breeds (e.g., Miniature Schnauzer, German Shepherds, Bulldogs).
• Female dogs may be more frequently affected; exact triggers remain unclear.

👀 Symptoms & Clinical Presentation

• Ocular: red, irritated eyes; mucoid discharge; low tear production.
• Oral: dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, dental issues, bad breath.
• Gland enlargement (e.g., mandibular salivary glands) noted in some cases.
• Mild fever or malaise may occur in systemic cases, though rare.

🧪 Diagnostic Approach

• History & exam: note chronic eye/mouth dryness, breeds, response to eye drops.
• Schirmer Tear Test: measures tear production; <10 mm/min is abnormal.
• Bloodwork: CBC, chemistry, ANA titers to assess autoimmunity.
• Imaging: ultrasound of glands may show inflammation/focal changes.
• Gland biopsy: histopathology reveals lymphocytic infiltration—definitive for Sjögren‑like disease.
• Rule out: other KCS causes (immune, medications, breed-specific), systemic diseases.

🛠 Treatment & Management Strategies

1. Ocular Care

• Topical cyclosporine or tacrolimus to reduce inflammation and stimulate tear production.
• Artificial tears/ointments for lubrication—very important in early and severe cases.
• Punctal plugs to retain moisture and improve tear film.

2. Oral & Salivary Support

• Saliva substitutes or soft, moist foods to aid swallowing and maintain hydration.
• Pain management if oral ulceration is present.

3. Systemic Immunosuppression

• Oral prednisone to dampen immune response; taper to lowest effective dose.
• Adjuvants like leflunomide, azathioprine for long‑term management if needed.

4. Supportive Care

• Regular dental cleanings to prevent periodontal disease.
• Monitor for secondary infections—prescribe topical antibiotics as needed.
• Frequent re‑evaluation with Schirmer tests and gland assessment.

📈 Prognosis

• Variable; some dogs improve tear production, others need lifelong topical and systemic therapy.
• Visual outcomes depend on early treatment; severe cases may develop corneal ulcers or scarring.
• Oral symptoms often resolve once inflammation is controlled; residual dryness may persist.

🚫 Breeding & Prevention

• Avoid breeding affected dogs; potential genetic predisposition unknown.
• Early recognition of dry eye syndromes can prompt diagnostic evaluation before systemic signs appear.

🏡 Ask A Vet App Home‑Monitoring Tools

• 🗓 Tear test reminders, medication schedules, plaque control appointments.
• 📊 Logs: tear production mm/min, oral moisture, eyelid redness.
• 📸 Photos: eye surface, saliva gland swelling, dental changes.
• 🔔 Alerts: worsening redness, discharge, dry mouth signs—notify vet early.
• 📚 Guides: proper eye-drop technique, salivary care, diet modifications.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Sjögren‑like syndrome is an autoimmune attack on tear and saliva glands—rare but serious.
• Symptoms include chronic dry eye, mucoid discharge, dry mouth, gland swelling.
• Diagnosis relies on Schirmer tear test, ANA, ultrasound, and gland biopsy.
• Treatment includes topical immunomodulators, oral immunosuppression, lubricants, and saliva care.
• Long‑term prognosis is good with early treatment; some dogs may require lifelong care.
• Ask A Vet app empowers owners with reminders, monitoring, and support tools.

🩺 Final Thoughts ❤️

In 2025, canine Sjögren‑like syndrome remains under‑diagnosed. But with thorough eye and oral exams, Schirmer testing, and gland biopsy, vets can confirm and begin targeted care. Immunosuppression plus ocular/oral support often restores comfort and function. Tools like Ask A Vet help owners stay organized with meds, tests, and early warning signs. Early detection is key—together we can preserve vision and quality of life for these pups. 🐾✨

Visit AskAVet.com and download the Ask A Vet app to schedule tear‑test reminders, record eye and mouth changes, log treatments, upload photos, and connect with your veterinary ophthalmologist anytime. 📲