Effective Tips for Removing Dog Tear Stains: Must-Know

Dogs' tears contain a substance called porphyrin, along with iron elements from the breakdown of red blood cells. When exposed to air, this combination can lead to the formation of rustcolored stains. Mild tear stains are typically the result of occasional eye irritation and subsequent tears, while severe stains are often the consequence of a dog continuously shedding tears over time.

Understanding the Causes of Dog Tear Stains

To tackle a dog's tear stains effectively, it's crucial to understand their origins. Dog tear stains are primarily caused by the following factors:

1. Genetic Factors: Certain dog breeds, such as Pugs, Bichon Frises, and Pomeranians, are genetically predisposed to more prominent tear ducts, making them prone to tear stains.

2. Eye Conditions: Diseases like conjunctivitis, keratitis, and blepharitis can increase eye secretions, leading to tear stains.

3. Entropion: When the eyelids roll inward, they can irritate the eye, causing excessive tears and subsequent stains.

4. Entropion: Also known as eyelash distortion, this condition occurs when eyelashes grow in the wrong direction, irritating the eye and leading to excessive tearing, inflammation, and redness.

5. Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction: Normally, tears flow from the tear ducts to the nasolacrimal duct and then into the nose. If the duct is too narrow, it can become blocked, causing a dog to frequently tear and develop stains.

6. Diet: A diet high in oil or salt can increase tear production and exacerbate tear stains.

7. Environment: Dust, bacteria, and other pollutants can irritate a dog's eyes, contributing to tear stains.

Simple Tips to Remove Dog Tear Stains

1. Regular Eye Cleaning

   (1) For mild tear stains, daily cleaning with physiological saline to remove tears, stains, and eye boogers is usually sufficient. This prevents tear buildup and hair discoloration.

   (2) For more pronounced stains, a mixture of 20% physiological saline and 80% boric acid solution can be used for wiping. Follow up with a few drops of Splendor Eye (Chrysanthemum Eye Solution) to maintain lubrication.

2. Adjusting Diet

   (1) Opt for lowsalt, lowfat dog food to reduce tear production.

   (2) Feed your dog cooling and hydrating foods with high water content, such as cabbage, cucumbers, and pears.

3. Improving Living Conditions

   (1) Keep the home clean to minimize dust and irritants that can lead to tear stains.

   (2) Avoid keeping your dog in airconditioned rooms for extended periods to prevent dry air from causing eye discomfort.

4. Eye Massages

   Massaging the dog's eye area, focusing on the Sishu, Zangzhu, and Jingming acupoints, can help unblock the nasolacrimal ducts.

   Sishu Point: Located at the outer end of the eyebrows, gently press for 1020 seconds, repeating 56 times.

   Zangzhu Point: At the very front of the eyebrows, press with the thumb for 1020 seconds, then stroke outward to the Sishu point, repeating 2030 times.

   Jingming Point: Situated slightly above the eyebrow, press with the thumb and slide downwards along the lower eyelid, repeating 2030 times.

5. Medical Treatment

   If your dog exhibits redness, excessive secretions, entropion, or other eye issues, it's important to seek veterinary care promptly. Bacterial conjunctivitis can often be treated with antibiotics like Berangming (Neomycin Sulfate Eye Drops) or Tobramycin Eye Drops. Severe entropion or entropion may require surgical intervention.