cherry eye

noun

: a protruding reddish mass occurring in the inner corner of the eye especially of young dogs that results from thickening, swelling, and prolapse of the lacrimal gland of the nictitating membrane

Cherry eye is most frequently a congenital condition typically seen in dogs younger than 2 …

—John de Jong, The Boston Herald

In rare instances—usually with puppies and young dogs—it is possible for cherry eye to resolve on its own. This is atypical, however, and surgery is usually needed to correct the problem.

—Karen Lee Stevens, Dog Watch,