Many dog owners are familiar with the reddish-brown discoloration that appears around their furry friends’ eyes, particularly noticeable on those with lighter coats. While these marks, commonly known as Tear Stains On Dogs, might seem like a mere cosmetic issue, they can sometimes indicate underlying health concerns and may even lead to skin irritation or infection if not properly managed. Understanding the causes, effective removal methods, and preventative measures is crucial for every responsible pet parent to ensure their canine companion’s comfort and well-being. If you’re looking for solutions to keep your dog’s face clean, exploring options like a dog tear stain remover can be a good starting point.
What Exactly Are Dog Tear Stains?
Dog tear stains are distinct reddish-brown streaks that extend from the inner corner of a dog’s eyes down onto their muzzle. While easily visible on white or light-colored fur, dogs with darker coats can also develop these stains, though they might be less apparent. Beyond their unsightly appearance, tear stains can pose several problems: they might signal an underlying health issue, create a moist environment prone to bacterial or yeast infections, and simply be a source of discomfort for the dog and concern for the owner.
Certain breeds and physical characteristics make some dogs more predisposed to developing tear stains. These include dogs with short noses, large eyes, flat faces (brachycephalic breeds), white fur, or congenital abnormalities in their tear ducts. Examples of breeds frequently affected include Maltese, Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise, Poodles, Pekingese, and the toy spaniel.
The Underlying Causes of Canine Tear Stains
In both humans and dogs, tears are naturally produced to keep the eyes moist and lubricated. Typically, these tears drain from the eyes into the nose through a system called the nasolacrimal duct. When tears appear watery or your nose runs after crying, it’s this system at work. While dogs don’t shed tears from sadness, they possess the same tear drainage ducts.
The primary cause of tear stains on dogs is often related to variations in eyelid structure that prevent tears from draining properly through the nasolacrimal duct, causing them to spill onto the face instead. While it’s possible for a dog to have a blocked nasolacrimal duct or a condition leading to excessive tear production, it’s important to note that most dogs with tear stains do not have a serious underlying eye problem. However, if your dog suddenly develops tear stains, especially if they haven’t had them before, it’s always wise to consult your veterinarian to rule out any medical conditions.
Close-up of a white Samoyed dog with visible reddish-brown tear stains under its eyes, looking directly at the camera.
The characteristic reddish-brown color of these stains is attributed to an iron-containing dye molecule called porphyrin. Porphyrin is released when the body breaks down red blood cells and is excreted through various bodily fluids, including bile, saliva, urine, and tears. When an excessive amount of tears consistently overflows from the eyes and sits on the fur, the porphyrin within these tears reacts with light and moisture, leading to the staining. Other factors like diet, water quality (e.g., high mineral content), environmental irritants (dust, pollen), or even mild allergic reactions can also contribute to tear production and exacerbate staining.
Effective Strategies for Removing Dog Tear Stains
Removing tear stains from dogs often requires a consistent approach and some experimentation to discover what works best for your pet. Before beginning any at-home stain removal regimen, it is crucial to have your veterinarian rule out any underlying medical conditions. If a health issue is identified, follow your vet’s recommendations for both treating the condition and managing the tear stains.
Several options are available for cleaning your pet’s tear stains:
- Over-the-counter eye wipes and washes: Products like Optixcare® Dog & Cat Eye Cleaner and Spa™ by TropiClean® Lavish Dog Facial Cleanser & Tear Stain Remover are specifically formulated for safe use around the eyes.
- At-home remedies: A warm, damp washcloth can be used for gentle cleaning. Diluted baby shampoo (ensure it’s tear-free and used with extreme caution to avoid getting it into the eyes) can also be applied.
When applying any cleanser, always wipe away from your dog’s eye and take care to prevent the product from entering the eye itself. Cleansing solutions can be applied using clean cotton balls or gentle pet wipes. It is essential to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new solution near your pet’s eyes, especially if your dog is currently on any prescribed eye medications. After cleaning the stained area, always dry the face thoroughly with a clean towel to prevent further moisture build-up. In cases of severe staining or matting, carefully trimming the hair around the eyes can significantly help in removing existing stains and improving hygiene.
Proactive Prevention of Dog Tear Stains
While preventing tears entirely may not be possible for some dogs, particularly those genetically predisposed like brachycephalic breeds, we can significantly prevent the stains from forming through diligent and regular facial cleaning.
To minimize the development of future tear stains, maintain short hair around your pet’s eyes through regular trimming. Clean the area around the eyes at least twice daily using a slightly damp washcloth or cotton ball. Some owners also find success using ordinary contact lens cleaning solution containing boric acid to gently clean around (never directly in) the eye.
Beyond topical cleaning, environmental and dietary factors play a role. Using filtered water instead of tap water and ensuring your dog drinks from clean, stainless steel or ceramic bowls can reduce mineral build-up and potential irritants. Feeding a high-quality diet that supports overall health and avoids common allergens may also help. Some supplements claim to reduce the amount of porphyrin in tears, which theoretically leads to less staining of the fur. However, results from such supplements can vary greatly from one pet to another. Ensuring your dog is comfortable in their environment, perhaps with a best cooling blanket for dogs during warmer months, can also contribute to overall health.
Remember that developing an effective routine for managing tear stains requires patience and a bit of experimentation. By consistently cleaning, maintaining good hygiene, addressing dietary and environmental factors, and consulting with your veterinarian for guidance, you can keep your dog’s face clean, comfortable, and free from unsightly tear stains.
