Tear Stains in Dogs Causes, Prevention, and Treatment | Pupford

Tear stains in dogs are a common cosmetic issue that many pet parents deal with, especially those with light-colored or long-haired breeds. While they are not always a cause for medical concern, tear stains can sometimes indicate an underlying health problem that needs to be addressed.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about tear stains in dogs, including their causes, how to prevent them, and the best ways to treat and manage them.

Table of Contents:

1. What Are Tear Stains?
2. Common Causes of Tear Stains in Dogs
3. How to Prevent Tear Stains in Dogs
4. How to Remove Tear Stains from Your Dog’s Fur
5. When to See a Veterinarian 

What Are Tear Stains?

Tear stains are reddish-brown or dark discolorations that appear around a dog's eyes, often extending down the sides of the muzzle. These stains are most noticeable on white or light-colored dogs, but they can occur in any breed.

Tear stains are caused by an excess of tears that keep the fur damp, allowing bacteria and yeast to grow, which leads to discoloration. The primary culprit behind the reddish-brown hue is porphyrin, a naturally occurring compound in a dog's tears, saliva, and urine.

While tear stains are generally harmless, persistent staining can indicate a more serious issue, such as an eye infection, allergies, or a structural problem with the tear ducts.

Common Causes of Tear Stains in Dogs

1. Excessive Tear Production (Epiphora)

Some dogs naturally produce more tears than others, leading to constant moisture around the eyes. This can be caused by genetics, allergies, or environmental factors.

2. Breed Predisposition

Certain dog breeds are more prone to tear stains due to their facial structure. Brachycephalic breeds (dogs with short noses and flat faces) and small breeds with prominent eyes are especially susceptible. Commonly affected breeds include:

• Maltese
• Shih Tzu
• Poodle
• Bichon Frise
• Cocker Spaniel
• Pekingese
• Bulldogs

These breeds often have shallow eye sockets or narrow tear ducts, which can contribute to excessive tearing and staining.

🐶Check out our Ultimate Guide to Small Dogs! 🐶

3. Blocked or Narrow Tear Ducts

If a dog's tear ducts are blocked or too narrow to drain tears properly, the excess moisture will spill over onto the fur, leading to staining. Some dogs are born with this condition, while others develop it due to infections or injuries.

4. Eye Infections and Irritation

Bacterial or yeast infections around the eyes can cause excessive tearing and dark tear stains. Symptoms of an infection may include:

• Red, swollen, or irritated eyes
• Discharge that is yellow or green
• Frequent pawing or rubbing at the eyes

5. Allergies and Sensitivities

Dogs can develop tear stains due to food allergies, environmental allergens (pollen, dust, mold), or sensitivities to cleaning products, plastic bowls, or even tap water. If allergies are the cause, you might also notice:

• Itchy skin
• Ear infections
• Gastrointestinal issues

🐶Can dogs get allergies? 🐶

6. Poor Diet and Nutrition

A low-quality diet can contribute to excessive tear staining. Poorly digestible ingredients, artificial additives, and fillers can cause inflammation, leading to watery eyes. Some dogs also react poorly to high iron levels in their food or water, which can contribute to discoloration.

Learn the benefits of proper nutrition for your pup!

7. Stress or Anxiety

Just like in humans, stress can cause dogs to develop physical symptoms, including increased tear production. Changes in routine, new environments, or separation anxiety may trigger excess tearing.

Related Reading: 12 Common Stress Signals in Dogs

How to Prevent Tear Stains in Dogs

Preventing tear stains is often a matter of good hygiene, proper diet, and addressing any underlying health issues. Here are some effective prevention strategies:

1. Keep Your Dog’s Face Clean and Dry

• Use a soft, damp cloth or pet-safe wipes to clean around the eyes daily.
• Dry the area thoroughly after cleaning to prevent bacterial and yeast buildup.
• Trim long fur around the eyes to reduce irritation and moisture retention.

Check out our Pupford Sudsy Shampoo Bar! 

2. Choose the Right Diet

• Feed a high-quality, well-balanced diet free from artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers.
• Consider switching to a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic diet if food sensitivities are suspected.
• Provide fresh, filtered water instead of tap water, which may contain minerals that contribute to staining.

🐶What protein is best for your dog? Check out our guide to 7 proteins in dog food! 🐶

3. Use Stainless Steel or Ceramic Bowls

Plastic bowls can harbor bacteria that may contribute to tear staining. Switching to stainless steel or ceramic bowls can help reduce irritation and bacteria buildup.

4. Address Allergies and Environmental Factors

• Regularly wash your dog’s bedding to remove allergens.
• Keep your home dust-free and avoid using strong chemical cleaners near your dog.
• If you suspect food allergies, consult a vet for an elimination diet trial.

5. Consider Tear Stain Supplements

Some pet-safe supplements are formulated to reduce tear stains by supporting eye health and reducing excessive tearing. Common ingredients include:

• Cranberry extract
• Eyebright herb
• Probiotics

Always consult your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet.

How to Remove Tear Stains from Your Dog’s Fur

If your dog already has tear stains, there are several ways to lighten or remove them safely.

1. Pet-Safe Tear Stain Removers

There are many commercial tear stain removers available in liquid, powder, or wipe form. Look for products that are gentle, non-toxic, and free of harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide or bleach.

2. Natural Home Remedies

Some pup parents prefer natural methods to lighten tear stains. Popular home remedies include:

• Coconut oil: Has antibacterial properties and helps moisturize the area.
• Apple cider vinegar: Adding a small amount (a teaspoon per 50 lbs of body weight) to your dog's water may help balance pH levels and reduce tear staining.
• Chamomile tea: A cooled chamomile tea bag can be used as a gentle wipe to soothe irritation and reduce staining.

3. Regular Grooming

• If your dog has long facial hair, consider frequent trims to keep the fur clean and dry.
• Professional groomers can help manage excessive facial hair that contributes to tearing.

🐶Want to learn how to groom your pup at home? Sign up for our At Home Grooming Course!🐶

When to See a Veterinarian

While tear stains themselves are usually harmless, there are times when veterinary attention is needed:

• Sudden or excessive tearing that appears out of nowhere
• Yellow, green, or thick discharge (a sign of infection)
• Red, swollen, or painful eyes
• Frequent rubbing or pawing at the eyes
• Signs of allergies or skin irritation

A vet can perform tests to check for eye infections, blocked tear ducts, or underlying health issues contributing to excessive tearing.

Recap: Tear Stains in Dogs 

Tear stains in dogs can be frustrating, but they are usually manageable with proper hygiene, a good diet, and regular veterinary check-ups. If your dog has persistent staining, addressing the root cause—whether it’s allergies, blocked tear ducts, or dietary sensitivities—will provide the best long-term results.

By taking proactive steps, you can help keep your dog’s face clean, comfortable, and free from unsightly tear stains. If you’re ever unsure about the cause or treatment of your dog’s tear stains, always consult with a veterinarian for guidance.