Dirty Fur Around Dog's Eyes: Quick Cleaning Tips!

Why Do Dogs Experience Abnormal "Tears"?

Dogs share similar facial features with humans, and in essence, their anatomy is interconnected. When a dog's nasolacrimal ducts become blocked or swell due to inflammation, the fluid cannot be expelled or evaporated through the normal channels, leading it to leak from the eyes.

Causes of Tear Stains

Tear stains in dogs primarily occur due to the longterm neglect of cleaning tears. When tears are not promptly wiped away, they mix with other secretions from the eyes and adhere to the fur, eventually oxidizing into dark stains. This is particularly noticeable in dogs with lightcolored fur.

Genetic Causes of Tear Stain Formation:

Some breeds with shorter snouts, such as Pug dogs, Bulldogs, and cats like Persian, Maine Coon, and Himalayan, are more prone to tear stains. These breeds, with their flat faces and shorter noses, have more curved nasolacrimal ducts, limiting the amount of tear fluid that can be expelled. This can lead to unsightly stains and even darkened eye sockets.

DiseaseRelated Causes of Tear Stain Formation:

1. Ear Infections

Ear infections are a common cause of tear stains in dogs. When the ear canal is infected with bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, or if it becomes swollen, painful, or itchy, it can stimulate tear production. If excess tears cannot be drained through the nasolacrimal ducts, they will overflow from the corners of the eyes near the nose. Over time, the brown stains on the fur become quite prominent.

2. Entropion

Entropion, or eyelid inversion, causes eyelashes to constantly irritate the cornea, leading to discomfort and frequent scratching of the eyes. This often results in a watery appearance and can also cause severe tear stains.

3. dacryoadenitis

Dacryoadenitis is inflammation of the lacrimal glands that produce tears. This can lead to abnormal and excessive tear production. If the nasolacrimal ducts cannot handle the overflow of tears, they will spill out, eventually causing noticeable tear stains.

4. Conjunctivitis

Dogs with conjunctivitis may experience excessive tearing, sensitivity to light, red eyes, and the production of sticky eye discharge. In severe cases, there may be swelling, pain, and even yellow or white pus in the eyes, with the eyelids sticking together. Tear stains caused by diseases require attention, and in severe cases, veterinary treatment is necessary.

Lifestyle Causes of Tear Stain Formation:

1. Diet Issues

Tear stains caused by a highsalt diet can be mitigated by switching to lowsodium food and ensuring the dog drinks plenty of water.

2. Grooming Issues

Long hair around a dog's eyes can irritate them, leading to tear stains. Trimming the hair can help alleviate tear production.

These causes of tear stains can often be alleviated or resolved by changing feeding habits and other lifestyle adjustments.

Regular Daily Care

For tear stains caused by genetics or breedspecific traits, a 2% boric acid swab (or cool water) can be gently wiped from the inner corner of the eye to the outer corner. Do not rub back and forth over the eye. If one swab is not enough, use another until the eye is clean. After cleaning, apply eye drops or ointment to reduce inflammation. This process requires consistency and patience, as it cannot be cured completely, and regular cleaning is necessary.