How to Get Rid of Dog Tear Stains?

Tear stains on dogs can be frustrating for pet parents. Those reddish-brown streaks under the eyes can make even the cleanest pup look unkempt. But beyond aesthetics, tear stains may signal health or grooming issues that need attention. Luckily, you can address them with a few smart steps and proper care. If you're eager to remove tear stains on dogs naturally and safely, you're in the right place. This guide will help you understand the root causes and show you how to keep your dog’s face clean, healthy, and free from stains.

What Are Tear Stains?

Tear stains are the discolored streaks that form beneath a dog’s eyes. They often appear reddish-brown and result from excessive tear production. These stains are especially visible on dogs with white or light-colored fur.

The pigments responsible for the discoloration are called porphyrins, which are found in your dog’s tears, saliva, and urine. When these tears sit on the fur for too long, the porphyrins break down, causing stains.

Common locations for these marks include:

Under the inner corner of the eyes
Along the muzzle
Around the nose and mouth (in some cases)

In some dog breeds, tear stains are more prevalent. This includes Shih Tzus, Maltese, Poodles, Pekingese, and Bulldogs. But all dogs, regardless of breed, can develop tear stains under certain conditions.

What Causes Tear Stains in Dogs?

Understanding the root cause helps you choose the right tear stains on a dog's removal method. Here are some common reasons:

Blocked Tear Ducts: If the ducts can’t drain tears properly, fluid overflows.
Eye Infections: Bacterial or yeast infections can irritate the eye and increase tearing.
Allergies: Food or environmental allergens may trigger excess tearing.
Teething in Puppies: During teething, puppies may produce more tears.
Poor Diet: Low-quality food or water with high mineral content may contribute.
Breed Anatomy: Flat-faced breeds are more prone due to their shallow eye sockets.
Ingrown Eyelashes or Entropion: These issues cause constant eye irritation.

Knowing the cause helps in choosing an effective and targeted solution.

Are Tear Stains Harmful? When to Worry

Most tear stains are harmless and cosmetic. But in some cases, they point to underlying health problems. So, when should you be concerned?

If your dog’s eyes look red or swollen
If there’s a foul odor near the eyes
If your dog squints or rubs their eyes frequently
If the discharge turns yellow or green

In these cases, seek veterinary care immediately. Your vet can examine your dog and rule out infections or other eye-related problems.

How to Get Rid of Dog Tear Stains: Step-by-Step Guide

You can take several proactive steps to remove tear stains on dogs. Follow this routine regularly to see visible results:

Step 1: Clean the Area Daily

Use a soft cloth or dog-safe tear stain wipe. Gently clean the stained area under your dog’s eyes. This helps remove buildup and keeps bacteria in check.

Step 2: Use a Natural Tear Stain Remover

Choose products with mild ingredients like coconut oil, witch hazel, or chamomile. These help soothe the area while removing existing stains. Avoid hydrogen peroxide and harsh chemicals, especially near the eyes.

Step 3: Switch to Stainless Steel or Ceramic Bowls

Replace plastic food and water bowls. Stainless steel and ceramic are easier to clean and won’t breed bacteria.

Step 4: Filtered Water Only

Provide your dog with fresh, filtered water. Minerals in tap water can worsen staining.

Step 5: Trim the Hair Around the Eyes

Long hair can trap moisture. Trim around your dog’s eyes carefully or ask your groomer for help. This reduces stain buildup.

Step 6: Improve Your Dog’s Diet

A high-quality diet supports healthy tear production. Look for dog food without artificial colors or fillers. Omega-3 fatty acids also promote skin and eye health.

Step 7: Consult Your Vet

If the problem persists despite good care, visit your vet. They may identify infections, allergies, or anatomical issues needing attention.

Grooming Tips to Prevent Tear Stains

Prevention is better than cure. Incorporate these tips into your doggy care routine to avoid future stains:

Brush facial hair daily to remove dust and debris.
Wipe the under-eye area every morning and night.
Keep hair around the eyes short.
Use anti-tear stain wipes weekly.
Clean bowls and toys regularly to reduce bacteria.
Don’t let wet fur sit; always dry thoroughly after cleaning.

These grooming habits not only help with tear stain prevention but also improve your dog’s overall health and comfort.

Want to Keep Your Dog Stain-Free? Learn from PDGA

Tired of constant tear stains ruining your dog’s adorable look? It’s time to level up your grooming skills with the PDGA’s Expert-Led Grooming Courses. This course isn’t just for professionals, it's perfect for pet parents who want to understand the science behind healthy coats, clean faces, and stain prevention.

You'll learn proven techniques to gently clean tear-prone areas, identify skin or allergy issues early, and use the right tools without causing discomfort. Discover natural solutions, expert grooming tips, and breed-specific care tips that truly work.

By the end of the course, you'll be confidently managing not just tear stains, but your dog’s overall grooming needs. If you want to keep your furry friend fresh, clean, and stain-free, then PDGA is your next smart step.

Conclusion

Tear stains are a common concern, but you can manage them with care and consistency. Start by identifying the cause, using gentle cleaning methods, and improving your dog’s hygiene and diet. If you're persistent, you’ll see clear improvements in your dog’s appearance.

Don’t let those stains steal your pup’s charm. Use the strategies outlined here to remove tear stains on dogs safely and keep them looking bright-eyed. Whether you’re following grooming routines or learning through hands-on grooming sessions, your dog deserves to feel and look their best.

Say goodbye to tear stains and hello to a happier, healthier pup today.