7 reasons your dog has tear stains and how to eliminate them
While the brown tear stains on your dog’s face are usually caused by excess tear production (called epiphora), there are many reasons why your dog might have them.
Some reasons for excess tear production are congenital, while others are related to environmental factors like diet, irritants, or allergens. Some indicate underlying health conditions, so always consult your vet to rule these out.
Here are seven causes of tear stains and what you can do to eliminate them.
1. Diet
Low-quality dog food usually contains poor-quality ingredients such as food additives, non-nutritive fillers, animal digest, and animal by-products — all of which can be highly allergenic and place undue stress on your dog’s body. Allergic reactions to the ingredients in these foods can also cause your dog’s eyes to water excessively, resulting in tear stains.
Check your dog’s food label and avoid common filler ingredients like wheat and other known allergens. In high-quality dog food, the first ingredient in the list should always be a named meat source (chicken, pork, beef, turkey, fish, etc.).
2. Conjunctivitis
If your mature dog suddenly develops tear stains, conjunctivitis is one of the most common causes. Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the eye lining, accompanied by discharge.
An injury or allergy can cause conjunctivitis in the eye. In the summer, conjunctivitis is often caused by an irritation in the eye, such as pollen or a grass seed, which results in excessive scratching, making the irritation worse.
Eye infections are also caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, irritants like dust and smoke, and even dog shampoo ingredients.
Try to reduce your dog’s exposure to allergens (if possible). Your vet will prescribe eye drops that contain anti-inflammatory agents, antihistamines, or antibiotics.
3. Ear infection
Ear infections are common and can cause one or both of your dogs’ eyes to water more than usual.
If only one of your dog’s eyes has tear stains, your vet will usually check for an infection in the ear on the same side.
Then, the vet will clean the ear thoroughly with a medicated ear cleanser. If the infection is severe, your vet may prescribe antibiotics and ear drops for you to administer at home.
4. Allergies
Allergens in your dog’s food, the environment, or even the cleaning products you use can cause dog tear stains.
Another symptom of allergies is itchy skin, which is called allergic dermatitis. Often, dogs with allergies chew their paws and scratch their muzzle excessively.
Try an elimination diet or limit your dog to only one protein source to see if his tear stains improve. Your vet may perform a RAST test (radioallergosorbent test) to determine what your dog is allergic to, prescribe antihistamines, and recommend a change in diet.
5. Glaucoma
Your dog’s tear stains may be caused by glaucoma, which is congenital. Glaucoma causes a buildup of pressure and fluids behind the eye, which damages the optic nerve. Glaucoma is more common among older dogs, and certain breeds like the Chow, Shar-Pei, Jack Russel, Husky, and Shih-Tzu are more prone to developing the condition.
You need to treat your dog’s glaucoma to get rid of your dog’s tear stains. Your vet may prescribe medication to reduce the pressure and discomfort in your dog’s eyes or perform surgery to correct them.
6. Brachycephalic Syndrome
Certain breeds are more prone to tear stains due to multiple hereditary conditions involving their eyes, such as entropion, poor tear drainage, shallow eye sockets, and tear deficiency.
These conditions occur in brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds such as the Boxer, Pekingese, Pug, French Bulldog, and Lhasa Apso.
These breeds tend to have round, bulging eyes, making fully closing them difficult. Because their eyelids don’t completely close, the surface of their eyes can be irritated or damaged.
Entropion occurs when a dog’s eyelids fold inward, irritating the eyelashes and making direct contact with the eyes.
Your vet can prescribe eye drops for tear deficiency and irritation; entropion and poor tear drainage may require corrective surgery.
7. Ingrown eyelashes
Ingrown eyelashes can cause immense irritation, watering eyes, and tear stains. This is often a hereditary problem in Cocker Spaniels, Pekingese, Dachshunds, and poodles.
In breeds that require clipping, don’t cut the hair too short around the face.
New hair growth may point inwards and cause eye irritation if you do. Cairn Terriers and White Terriers are particularly prone to this condition.
Options to remove your dog’s tear stains
Removing tear stains from your dog’s fur can be accomplished safely and effectively using various methods.
Here are some of the safest options to consider:
Regular grooming
Maintaining a consistent grooming routine is essential. Regularly brushing your dog’s face and the affected areas helps prevent buildup and encourages clean fur.
Use a soft brush and be gentle around the eyes to avoid irritation.
Wipe with a damp cloth
Use a clean, damp cloth or soft cotton ball to gently wipe your dog’s face, especially around the eye area.
Warm water is usually sufficient, but you can also use a diluted water solution with a small amount of natural, unscented baby wipes or hypoallergenic pet wipes specifically designed for dogs.
Commercial tear stain removers
Various pet-safe tear stain removers are available on the market. Look for products made with natural ingredients and specifically designed for dogs.
Always follow the instructions and consult your vet before using any new product.
Natural remedies
Some pet owners prefer to use natural remedies, like a mixture of apple cider vinegar (diluted with water) or coconut oil, applied topically to the stain.
Both have mild antibacterial properties, but it’s vital to test any remedy on a small area first to ensure it does not irritate your dog’s skin.
Dietary adjustments
Ensure your dog is on a high-quality diet without fillers and allergens. Supplements such as omega fatty acids may improve skin health and reduce tear staining.
Always consult with your vet before making dietary changes or introducing new supplements.
Hydration
Keeping your dog well-hydrated can improve tear production and overall health.
Ensure they have access to fresh, clean water at all times.
Veterinary consultation
If tear stains persist despite your efforts, consult your veterinarian.
They can identify any underlying health issues and recommend appropriate treatments or products.
Final thoughts on tear stains
While tear stains on your dog can be a common issue, understanding the underlying causes is crucial for effective management.
Factors like diet, allergies, infections, and genetic predispositions can produce excess tears.
By identifying the specific cause—whether through dietary changes, veterinary intervention, or addressing environmental allergens—you can help reduce or eliminate tear stains and improve your dog’s overall eye health.
Regular check-ups with your veterinarian are essential to rule out more serious conditions and ensure your furry friend remains comfortable and healthy.