How to Get Rid of Dog Tear Stains

If your dog has reddish-brown streaks below their eyes, you are dealing with one of the most common cosmetic concerns in dog ownership: dog tear stains. These stains are especially visible on light-coated breeds and can be stubborn to remove. Understanding what causes dog tear stains and how to address them effectively and safely requires a bit of background. At Kryder + Harr Veterinary Clinic in Granger, IN, we help owners address tear staining while making sure the underlying causes are not being overlooked.

What Causes Dog Tear Stains?

Dog tear stains are caused by a pigment called porphyrin, which is found in a dog’s tears, saliva, and urine. When porphyrin-containing tears overflow and remain in contact with the fur around the eyes, the iron-rich compounds oxidize in air and sunlight, creating the characteristic reddish-brown discoloration. The primary question is: why are so many tears overflowing in the first place?

Excessive Tear Production (Epiphora)

The most common cause of tear staining in dogs is epiphora, or the overproduction or abnormal overflow of tears. When more tears are produced than the tear drainage system can handle, they spill over the lower eyelid and saturate the fur beneath the eye. Epiphora can be caused by eye irritation, allergies, entropion (inward-turning eyelids), distichiasis (abnormal eyelash growth), blocked tear ducts, corneal ulcers, or eye infections. Before focusing on removing the stains cosmetically, it is important to identify and address the cause of excessive tearing.

Shallow Eye Sockets and Facial Anatomy

Many breeds that are predisposed to dog tear stains have anatomical features that make tearing and staining more likely. Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Shih Tzus, Maltese, Pugs, and Bulldogs often have shallow eye sockets that cause the eyes to be more prominent and exposed, increasing tear overflow. White-coated breeds show staining more visibly. Breeds with prominent eyes and heavy facial folds are especially prone.

Health and Environmental Factors

Diet, water quality, and general health can all influence tear staining. Some dogs show improvement when switched to filtered water, as tap water high in minerals can contribute to staining. Food sensitivities and allergies may also increase eye irritation and tearing in some dogs.

How to Get Rid of Dog Tear Stains Safely

Addressing dog tear stains involves two parallel approaches: keeping the stained fur clean, and addressing the underlying cause of excessive tearing.

Regular Cleaning and Grooming

Keeping the fur around the eyes dry and clean is the first line of defense:

• Wipe the area under the eyes gently with a damp, clean cloth or pet-safe eye wipe daily.
• Keep the fur trimmed short in the corner of the eye area to reduce moisture retention.
• Pat the area dry after cleaning as moisture encourages yeast growth, which worsens staining and odor.
• Use a fine-tooth comb to prevent fur from falling into the eye.

Commercial Tear Stain Removal Products

There are many tear stain removers marketed for dogs, including wipes, powders, and liquids applied to the stained fur. When choosing a product, look for pet-safe formulations free of bleach, hydrogen peroxide, and harsh chemicals. Always patch test on a small area first and avoid contact with the eye itself. Avoid any products containing tylosin or antibiotics marketed for tear stains without veterinary guidance. These are not approved for this use and contribute to antibiotic resistance.

When to See a Vet About Tear Stains

Tear staining that is new, worsening, accompanied by squinting, cloudiness of the eye, eye discharge, or redness deserves a veterinary evaluation. These symptoms can indicate an underlying eye condition including corneal ulcers, conjunctivitis, or anatomical abnormalities that requires treatment. At Kryder + Harr Veterinary Clinic, we can examine your dog’s eyes and tear drainage system, identify the cause of excessive tearing, and recommend appropriate treatment. In some cases, surgical correction of anatomical issues may be an option.

Preventing Dog Tear Stains from Coming Back

Once you have addressed the underlying cause and removed existing staining, ongoing prevention is straightforward:

• Daily or every-other-day gentle cleaning of the eye area
• Regular professional grooming to keep facial fur trimmed
• Addressing any allergies, dietary sensitivities, or eye irritants
• Annual eye exams as part of wellness visits at Kryder + Harr Veterinary Clinic

Clear Eyes, Clean Coat, Happy Dog

Dog tear stains are manageable with the right approach, and they should not be ignored as purely cosmetic. Persistent tearing is a signal worth investigating, and keeping the eye area clean is important for your dog’s comfort and eye health. If your dog’s tear staining is persistent or accompanied by other eye symptoms, reach out to Kryder + Harr Veterinary Clinic in Granger, IN at (574) 277-6533. Our team will help you get to the root of the problem and keep those eyes bright and clear.