Natural Remedies to Banish Dog Tear Stains - Easy Tips!

Dealing with a dog's tear stains can be a persistent concern for pet owners, especially for those with white or lightcolored fur, such as Bichon Frises, Teddy Bears, and Pomeranians. These unsightly marks are primarily caused by the oxidation of porphyrin in tears, and if left unaddressed, they can lead to infections in the eye and surrounding skin. But how can you effectively remove these tear stains? Are there any miracle cures? Let's delve into this topic in detail today.

Understanding the Common Causes of Dog Tear Stains

1. Genetic Factors: Certain breeds, such as brachycephalic dogs like Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Bichon Frises, often have a curved tear duct that limits tear flow, leading to more prominent tear stains. Primary lacrimal hypersecretion, a genetic disorder, can also cause excessive tear production and frequent tears.

2. Environmental Irritants: Exposure to secondhand smoke, dust, hair, or other environmental pollutants can irritate the eyes, prompting excessive tearing.

3. Ear Infections: Sometimes, ear canal issues can trigger a reflex that makes the tear glands overly active.

4. Dental Issues: Dogs in the process of teething or suffering from dental diseases may experience eye irritation, leading to increased tear production.

5. Diet: A diet high in salt can stimulate the tear glands, contributing to more tears and, subsequently, tear stains.

6. Eye Conditions: Eye inflammation, blocked tear ducts, ingrown eyelashes, and entropion can all lead to excessive tear production and the formation of tear stains.

How to Remove Dog Tear Stains

1. Regular Hair Trimming: For longhaired or curlyhaired breeds, regular grooming around the eyes can prevent hair from irritating the eyes and causing tears. Check for any ingrown eyelashes and, if present, gently pluck them out. In cases of excessive ingrown lashes or entropion, surgical intervention may be necessary.

2. Frequent Wiping: Use a mixture of 20% saline solution and 80% boric acid water to wipe the tear stain area three times a day. This can gradually lighten the stain. Additionally, using a product like Shine Crystal (Honeysuckle Eye Rinse) to clean the eyes can alleviate discomfort and reduce tear production. Keep a close eye on your dog's eyes and wipe away any tears promptly to prevent staining.

3. Diet Adjustments: Opt for a lowsodium diet and increase your dog's water intake. Adding supplements like vitamin A, Bcomplex vitamins, and lutein to their food can help protect their eyes and improve tear stains.

4. Improve Living Conditions: Maintain a clean home environment, free from dust, smoke, and other irritants. Regularly clean your dog's bedding and kennel to reduce bacterial growth.

5. Massage and Duct Clearance: Regularly massage your dog's eye corners to help keep the tear ducts clear and reduce tear stains. In cases of severe blockage, consult a veterinarian for professional treatment.

6. Regular Ear and Dental Checks: Ensure there are no underlying health issues exacerbating the tear stains. Offer dental chews if your dog is teething and use a product like Ear Clear (Pet Ear Care Solution) to clean dirty ears.

ps: If your dog exhibits symptoms like excessive earwax, bad odor, red and itchy ear canals, frequent head shaking, or ear scratching, these might be signs of ear mites, Malassezia infections, or bacterial otitis media. A veterinary checkup is essential to identify the cause and initiate treatment.

That's a comprehensive guide on how to tackle dog tear stains. If, after implementing these measures, your dog's tear stains persist or are accompanied by other symptoms such as frequent blinking, rubbing, or red, swollen eyes, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian promptly to rule out any medical issues.