Tear stains are dark-brown or reddish spots that appear under a dog’s eyes due to tear secretion. In veterinary medicine, the problem of tear stains is called “epiphora.”

Breeds with white fur, such as Poodles, Maltese, Maltipoo, and Spitz, often suffer from this. In most cases, it’s a symptom rather than a disease itself.

It’s odd, isn’t it? Tears are transparent and colorless, so why do tear stains eventually turn reddish-brown? The resulting color of tear stains can depend on various factors.

What causes it?

Allergies:

Allergic reactions can lead to increased tear production. Often, the allergy is to a specific food or treat, with certain animal proteins (like chicken) being common culprits.

Infection:

This could be infections of the eyes, ears, nose, or throat. It’s all connected, and bacteria in the ears can trigger excessive tearing and discoloration around the eyes.

Narrowing of the tear duct: The tear duct can narrow due to a cold or conjunctivitis. Genetic factors can also play a role.

Genetics:

Heredity is often the primary cause.

Blockage in the nasal part:

A blockage can occur due to a significant bend in the canal from a shortened facial skull structure (like in Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, Spitz, Maltese, Bichon Frise) or a very narrow canal (as in dwarf Dachshunds or Toy Poodles).

What to do? How to remove tear stains in dogs?

Firstly, see a veterinarian. Only they can determine the actual cause, whether it’s an allergy or a pathology of the nasolacrimal canal. Once you’ve consulted with a vet and are addressing the root cause, you can begin improving your dog’s appearance.

Stains from tears should be wiped twice daily until the effect is seen. Special wipes, powders, lotions, solutions, or drops for tear stain removal are used.

Clean the eyes with a wet cloth or cotton pad, moving from the outer to the inner corner, then the stains themselves. Use separate cloths or cotton pads for each eye. Don’t use cotton balls as their fibers can get onto the cornea and cause more tearing.

A review of the best tear stain products:

Hygienic products:

  • Iv San Bernard Clean Eyes lotion for cleaning the eye area. Daily care for the area around the eyes. Contains chamomile and witch hazel, which clean and soothe, addressing any redness.
  • Trixie tear stain removal lotion. An affordable hygienic solution.

Restorative products:

  • Iv San Bernard Sil Plus moisturizer for dry skin and fur. Keeps fur from drying out, improves texture, and adds shine. Contains jojoba oil that forms a protective layer on hairs, making tears roll off.
  • Iv San Bernard Cristal Clean mousse for removing oxidation from fur. A creamy mousse designed to remove yellow spots from white fur and red spots from black fur.

Express results, for shows:

  • Davis Cover-Up Whitening Powder. This whitening powder helps hide unsightly stains around the eyes or discoloration. Easy to apply and effective, it doesn’t irritate the eyes. Recommended for preparing pets for shows.
  • Eye Envy Powder. Contains no bleaching agents, cornstarch, or steroids. Helps keep the area dry, repels tears, and has antibacterial properties.

In conclusion, first identify and address the cause, then deal with the aftermath if necessary.