How to Get Rid of Tear Stains on Dogs

Tear stains are a common issue that many dog owners encounter. These unsightly reddish-brown streaks under a dog's eyes can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, allergies, and eye infections. While tear stains are usually harmless, they can be a nuisance and detract from your dog's appearance. Fortunately, there are several effective methods for getting rid of tear stains and preventing them from coming back.

Are Dog Tear Stains Normal?

Dog tear stains are not uncommon and can be considered normal in some cases, but they can also indicate underlying health issues or breed-specific traits. Dogs produce tears to keep their eyes moist and healthy. Sometimes, excessive tearing can lead to tear staining. This can be due to allergies, irritants, or other underlying eye issues. If your dog's eyes are constantly tearing, it's a good idea to consult a veterinarian to rule out any medical conditions.

What Are Tear Stains on Dogs?

Tear stains, technically known as epiphora, occur when excessive tear production or inadequate tear drainage leads to the accumulation of tears and their subsequent staining on the fur around a dog's eyes. The tears contain natural substances like porphyrins, which can oxidize and create a reddish-brown discoloration on light-colored fur. That's why you'll find white dogs with red tear stains.

Why Does My Dog Have Tear Stains?

Epiphora is a condition where excessive tear production or poor tear drainage leads to watery eyes. When tears overflow, they can stain the fur around the eyes. This is the most common cause of tear stains in dogs.

Conformation

The anatomy of some dog breeds, such as those with flat faces (brachycephalic breeds), can lead to shallow eye sockets and tear ducts that don't drain effectively. This can result in tear staining. Some of the breeds commonly associated with tear stains include:

• Bulldogs

• Pugs

• Shih Tzus

• Boston Terriers

• Maltese

• Pekingese

• Chihuahuas

• Yorkshire Terriers

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a severe eye ailment marked by elevated pressure within the eye, leading to symptoms such as excessive tearing. This condition may result in unequal pupil sizes and visible discomfort in your dog's eye. Additionally, you may notice a significant amount of discharge.

Infections or Eye Problems

When the eyes are irritated or infected, the body's natural response is to produce more tears to help flush out the irritants or fight off the infection. This excessive tearing can contribute to the development of tear stains, which are brown or reddish-brown streaks or stains that can appear on the fur around the eyes of some pets, particularly dogs and cats.

Blocked Tear Ducts

Dogs have tear ducts, also known as lacrimal ducts, which are responsible for draining tears away from the eyes. These ducts carry tears from the eye's surface into the nasal cavity, where they are ultimately eliminated. Sometimes, dogs can have blocked tear ducts, preventing proper drainage of tears. This can lead to tear staining.

Diet

Some dog foods may contain ingredients or additives that can lead to tear staining in certain dogs. If you suspect that your dog's diet is contributing to tear stains, consider switching to high-quality, hypoallergenic, or grain-free food.

Do Tear Stains on Dogs Go Away?

Whether tear stains will go away depends on several factors.
If tear stains are caused by allergies, eye infections, blocked tear ducts, or anatomical issues. When the root cause is treated, the tear staining may diminish or disappear. If they may not completely go away due to their genetic predisposition.

How to Get Rid of Tear Stains on Dogs?

Tear stains on dogs are a common issue, especially in breeds with white or light-colored fur. These stains can be caused by a variety of factors, including excessive tearing, genetics, allergies, and eye infections. 

Veterinarians typically suggest the use of antibiotic eye drops along with corticosteroid and antihistamine treatments to address eye infections or allergies in dogs.

Gently clean the stained area daily with a soft, damp cloth or a cotton ball. Use a mild dog-friendly eye wash or a saline solution to clean the fur around the eyes. Be careful not to get any solution in your dog's eyes.

If your dog's fur is long around their eyes, it may contribute to tear staining. Trim the hair around the eyes to prevent it from coming into contact with tears.

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How to Remove Dog Tear Stains Naturally?

Removing dog tear stains naturally involves using gentle, non-toxic methods to reduce staining without resorting to chemical products. Here are some natural remedies and practices to help remove tear stains on dogs:

Use Herbal Solutions

Some herbal remedies can help reduce tear staining. Chamomile tea or calendula tea can be brewed and cooled, and then applied to the stained area with a clean cloth. These herbs have anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe the skin.

Apple Cider Vinegar Solution

Mix one part apple cider vinegar with one part distilled water. Soak a cotton ball in this solution and gently wipe the stained area. Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties that can help reduce tear stains.

Herbal Supplements

Some natural supplements like eyebright or marshmallow root can help support eye health and reduce tear staining. Consult your vet before using any supplements to ensure they are safe for your dog.

Probiotics

Consider giving your dog a probiotic supplement, as gut health can influence tear production. A balanced gut microbiome may help reduce tear stains.

Filtered Water

Provide your dog with filtered or distilled water to minimize mineral and impurity intake, which can sometimes contribute to tear staining.

How to Prevent Tear Stains on Dogs?

Here are some steps you can take to help reduce the likelihood of tear stains in your dog:

Regular Eye Cleaning: Clean your dog's eyes daily with a soft, damp cloth or a cotton ball to remove any debris and excess tear buildup. This helps prevent tear stains from forming.

Trim Eye Fur: Keep the fur around your dog's eyes trimmed to prevent it from coming into contact with tears and becoming stained.

Use Tear Stain Removers: There are various commercial tear stain removers available in pet stores and online. These products often contain ingredients like hydrogen peroxide, boric acid or antibiotics to help break down the stains and prevent bacterial growth. Follow the product's instructions carefully when applying.

Diet: Some tear staining may be related to your dog's diet. Try switching to a high-quality dog food that doesn't contain artificial additives, colorings, or fillers. Some dogs may benefit from a diet specifically formulated to reduce tear staining. Some owners have found that adding probiotics to their dog's diet can help reduce tear staining, especially if it's related to digestive issues or food allergies.

Water Quality: Make sure your dog has access to clean, fresh water at all times. Consider using purified or filtered water to eliminate potential contaminants that could contribute to tear staining.

Remember that tear staining can be a persistent issue, and it may take time to see improvements. Be patient and consistent in your efforts, and consult your veterinarian for guidance throughout the process. Additionally, always prioritize your dog's comfort and safety when trying different remedies or products.

Conclusion

Tear stains can be a frustrating issue for dog owners, but with the right approach and consistent care, they can be managed and even prevented. Remember that every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice and treatment options to ensure the health and happiness of your furry friend. By following these tips and giving your dog the care they deserve, you can help them look and feel their best, tear stain-free.