Tear staining in dogs is a common problem, especially in breeds with light-coloured fur. It is caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, eye shape, allergies, diet, and environmental factors. Learn how to remove tear stains on your dog, naturally.
One of the primary causes of tear staining is excessive tearing.
Dogs produce tears to lubricate their eyes and remove debris, but when there is an overproduction of tears, they can spill over and create tear stains on the fur around the eyes.
This can be caused by a variety of issues, such as
- blocked tear ducts
- eye infections
- irritation
Another factor that contributes to tear staining is the structure of a dog's face. Breeds with flat faces or bulging eyes, such as Shih Tzus, Pugs, and Bulldogs, are more prone to tear staining because their facial structure can cause tears to spill over onto the fur.
Breeds with flat faces or bulging eyes, such as Shih Tzus, Pugs, and Bulldogs, are more prone to tear staining
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How to Safely Remove Tear Stains from Your Dog's Fur
- Keep the area around your dog's eyes clean and dry by wiping it with a damp cloth
- Use a natural tear stain solution to clean the area around your dog's eyes. See below for natural solutions you can make at home
- Feed your dog a healthy diet that is free from grains and other allergens. This can help prevent tear staining
- Regularly trim the hair around your dog's eyes to prevent the build-up of bacteria and yeast
- Provide your dog with fresh, clean drinking water always
- Use a stainless steel or ceramic food bowl instead of plastic, which can harbour bacteria
- Take your dog to the vet if the tear staining persists. It may be a sign of an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed.
While tear stains in dogs are primarily a cosmetic issue, ignoring them can potentially lead to more serious health problems
How to Remove Tear Stains - Natural Remedies You Can Make at Home
Here are some natural remedies for tear staining to use as a safe removal solution. It's important to use safe ingredients when making the solution for your dog.
Natural Remedy 1 - Witch Hazel & Coconut Oil
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of distilled or filtered water
- 1/4 cup of witch hazel (Witch hazel has natural astringent and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness and irritation around the eyes.)
- 1 teaspoon of organic coconut oil (Coconut oil can moisturise and soothe the skin)
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a small bowl or jar.
- Soak a clean cloth or cotton ball in the solution.
- Gently wipe the area around your dog's eyes with the solution, being careful not to get any in their eyes.
- Repeat daily until the tear staining is reduced or eliminated.
Rose water is a gentle and natural alternative to witch hazel that can be used in a tear stain remover solution. Simply replace the witch hazel with an equal amount of rose water in the above recipe.
Natural Remedy 2 - Apple Cider Vinegar & Honey
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of filtered water
- 1 tablespoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar (Apple cider vinegar is a natural astringent and antibacterial agent that can help to eliminate bacteria and tighten the skin around the eyes)
- 1/2 teaspoon of raw honey (Raw honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe and heal the skin)
- 1-2 drops of chamomile essential oil (this is optional - Chamomile essential oil can help to reduce inflammation and redness, while also providing a calming scent)
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a small bowl or jar
- Soak a clean cloth or cotton ball in the solution
- Gently wipe the area around your dog's eyes with the solution, being careful not to get any in their eyes
- Repeat daily until the tear staining is reduced or eliminated.
It's important to note that apple cider vinegar may sting if it gets into your dog's eyes, so be careful when using this solution. If your dog has sensitive skin, you may want to dilute the solution with more water or skip the apple cider vinegar altogether. Always test the solution on a small patch of skin before using it on a larger area.
Natural Remedy 3 - Green Tea, Coconut Oil & Vitamin E Oil
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of filtered water
- 1 green tea bag (Green tea contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness and irritation around the eyes.)
- 1 tablespoon of organic coconut oil (Coconut oil can moisturise and soothe the skin)
- 1-2 drops of vitamin E oil (optional - vitamin E oil can nourish and protect the skin.)
Instructions:
- Brew a cup of green tea using the filtered water and tea bag. Let it cool to room temperature.
- Mix in the coconut oil and vitamin E oil (if using) with the green tea.
- Soak a clean cloth or cotton ball in the solution.
- Gently wipe the area around your dog's eyes with the solution, being careful not to get any in their eyes.
- Repeat daily until the tear staining is reduced or eliminated.
Natural Remedy 4 - Aloe Vera, Coconut Oil & Chamomile
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of distilled or filtered water
- 1/4 cup of organic aloe vera juice (Aloe vera juice is a natural moisturiser that can help to soothe and calm the skin around the eyes)
- 1 teaspoon of organic coconut oil (Coconut oil can moisturise and nourish the skin)
- 1-2 drops of chamomile essential oil (optional - while chamomile essential oil can help to reduce inflammation and redness.)
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a small bowl or jar
- Soak a clean cloth or cotton ball in the solution
- Gently wipe the area around your dog's eyes with the solution, being careful not to get any in their eyes
- Repeat daily until the tear staining is reduced or eliminated
Note: Some dogs may be allergic to some of these ingredients, so it's best to test the solution on a small patch of skin before using it on a larger area. Also, be careful not to get any of the solution in your dog's eyes, as it may cause irritation. If you have any concerns or questions, consult with your veterinarian.
Tear Stains Can Lead to Health Issues if Untreated
While tear stains in dogs are primarily a cosmetic issue, ignoring them can potentially lead to more serious health problems. Here are some potential issues that can arise from ignoring tear stains:
- Skin irritation and infection: If the fur around the eyes is constantly wet from tears, it can become irritated and infected. This can lead to redness, itching, and the development of sores and skin infections.
- Eye infections: Tear stains are often a sign of excessive tearing, which can be caused by eye infections. If left untreated, eye infections can worsen and potentially lead to more serious eye problems, including vision loss.
- Blocked tear ducts: Tear stains can also be a sign of blocked tear ducts, which can cause eye discharge, eye infections, and even damage to the eye if left untreated.
- Discomfort and pain: Tear stains can cause discomfort and pain for your dog, especially if the skin around the eyes is irritated or infected.
- Underlying health issues: Tear staining can sometimes be a sign of underlying health issues such as allergies, or other medical conditions. Ignoring tear staining may mean missing these underlying issues and failing to treat them promptly.
In Summary
It is essential to monitor your dog's tear staining and take steps to address it if it persists. If you are unsure of the cause or if the staining worsens, consult with your veterinarian for guidance on the best course of action.
In addition, tear stains can cause discomfort and irritation to the dog, leading to further complications. Addressing tear stains promptly and effectively can improve the dog's health and overall well-being and prevent further complications.
Disclaimer: The entire contents of this email and website are not to be taken as medical advice. The team at PetWell encourages you to make your own pet healthcare decisions based on your research. And in partnership with a qualified pet healthcare professional.
