Causes of Dog Tear Stains

Posted by: Joanne Gallagher • February 3, 2010

We all strive to look our best. There are cosmetic remedies and prescription medicines for dark circles and puffy eyes. The same is true for dogs that have reddish-brown stains under their eyes.

Tear stains are apparent on white and light hair dogs. Brown, black and dogs with darker hair and fur experience tear staining also; it just is not that noticeable because it is camouflaged by their coloring. Light or dark coated, not all dogs experience tear staining.

There are many reasons why a dog has tear stains. It is trial and error to figure out which is causing the problem in your dog. Every dog has a different chemical makeup and lives in a different environment; therefore the eye stain culprit can vary from dog to dog.

Some dogs just have good genes, at least in the tear staining category. Veterinarians suggest that eye structure is the source of the problem. A sinus condition can lead to excessive tearing. The sinuses are connected to eyes, ears, nose and fluid blockage and inadequate draining can lead to infections.

Fleas tend to congregate around the eyes where it is warm and moist. They irritate a dog’s eyes and leave their red feces under the dogs’ eyes. Fleas also carry mites, which cause ear infections that also create excessive eye tearing and staining.

A Veterinarian can help diagnose the cause of excessive eye tearing and staining. Vets can determine if your dog has clogged tear ducts, ear infections or irritating eye lashes that are causing your dog’s eye to tear. Treating an ear infection or unclogging an eye duct via eye irrigation can be medically necessary. If there is a severe eye condition a Veterinary Opthalmologist might be required to treat your dog’s condition.

Good hygiene is important for every pet. However it can also play a simple role in keeping eye stains under control. Routine baths with a flea shampoo and washing your dogs face daily can make a significant difference.

Keeping dirt and hair out of your dog’s eyes and staying alert of any changes like excessive licking, or goopy eye conditions is the best way to keep your pet’s eyes healthy. Seek advice from a Veterinarian and/or dog groomer about treating the sensitive eye area.

Visit Jake’s Dog House for Tear Stain Solutions

Share and Enjoy:
  • Digg
  • del.icio.us
  • Facebook
  • Google Bookmarks
  • StumbleUpon
  • Technorati
  • TwitThis
  • BlinkList
  • LinkedIn
  • NewsVine
  • Yahoo! Buzz
  • RSS

About the author

Joanne

Joanne Gallagher

eCommerce Specialist - Jake's Dog House - Joanne has been a part of the JDH team since it’s inception in 1995. Her focus is on the website and multi-channel listings. She is a HUGE Animal Lover and currently lives in Maple Glen, PA with her husband, three teenage kids and three rescue dogs, Pebbles the Golden Retriever, and Betty and Wilma the Bichons. Along with Jeane she is a leader in the push for all things Green and Holistic.

Leave a Reply