The Eyes Have It
Eyes are an important part of anybody’s world. Without them, we are lacking one of our significant senses. While it is true white German shepherds have strong noses and keen ears, they also depend on their eyes. They may not have the acuity of us humans, but they can and do have other advantages.
A dog’s eyes have large pupils and can execute a wide field of vision. While we are stuck with a peripheral vision of some 180 degrees when we keep our head still and straight, a dog can see around 250 degrees. They may be nearsighted, but they are far more sensitive when it comes to movement and light.
While humans can boast a wider range of color, dogs are not, as previously thought, colorblind. A dog’s world is not various shades of grey as once depicted. It has colors. They may resemble the world of a human with colorblindness, but they can see in various shades and hues. In a dog’s colorful world, however, it is easier for them to locate a yellow tennis ball over a green one. Unless, of course, the dog is not interested in finding the ball at all.
A dog’s eyes are expressive, and say something to you. They beg, they sparkle with joy at your return home. They are mischievous and, temporarily guilty. Eyes also indicate pain. They are susceptible, like other body parts, to disease, injury and accidents. This is why you need to examine them on a weekly basis. Do not wait until you catch your dog pawing at them or rubbing his or her head excessively. Admittedly, sometimes, this action is to remove small tears that form on the corners of the eyes.
When you look into your dog’s eyes, notice the condition. They must be clear and bright. There should be no excessive discharge. The eyes should be without any redness. Tearing should also be absent.
Dogs have excellent night vision and can see 5 to 6 times better at night than we can. They have a mirror like structure in the back of their eyes that reflect light, similar to night vision goggles. This is why their eyes glow when light is flashed on them in the dark.