My dog has tear stains. What causes them and how can I clean them?

I know that this can be frustrating. There are a few things you can try. There is a product called Angels' Eyes that comes in an oral form. It does have to be given on a consistent basis in order to see a difference. You can also use a contact solution with boric acid to reduce the staining. Do not use boric acid in any other form around the eyes as it can cause irritation or damage to the eyes. The other thing would be to have a groomer shave the hair from that area. This will keep her face cleaner and with less hair, there will be less staining.

This is very common in smaller breed dogs. It is normal eye drainage called epiphora. As long as the drainage isn't green or yellow and Scribbles isn't favoring her eyes, then I am not concerned that it is infection. I would recommend to use a warm damp wash cloth daily to clean under the eyes. I also recommend to have the hair under the eyes trimmed short or shaved. You can ask your vet or groomer to help you with this usually for little to no cost. I do not recommend to do this yourself as it is really easily to accidentally poke their eyes without proper restraint. Finally, if you do not like the brown color it makes, then you can consider using a probiotic or angel eyes which both will SOMETIMES work to decrease the darkness in the fur. Unfortunately it doesn't always work. You can take some comfort in knowing that as long as the eye drainage is frequently cleaned and isn't causing a skin infection then the brown discoloration is strictly cosmetic. I hope this helps!

This is a good general eye wash: ( http://www.allivet.com/p-8131-vetericyn-plus-eye-wash-3-oz.aspx ) For tear staining I recommend Angel Eyes products. They seem to work the best. ( https://angelseyesonline.com/products/ ) Hope this helps. Great question!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I can see how the skin is red in the folds on his face under the left eye. It is not unusual for pugs, frenchies and bull dogs to get a facial fold dermatitis. Moisture builds up in the wrinkles and an infection can occur. There are wipes you can get to to wipe the affected areas. I like Mal-a-ket wipes or Douxo chlorhex wipes. Your Vet should carry them Good luck!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Juliette! There is pigment normally present in tear film and saliva. If she is having excessive tearing and is either using her paws to rub her eyes (like a grooming cat) or is licking her paws that can explain the discoloration. The most common reason for a sudden onset of excessive tearing and licking of the paws is allergies (allergies can start anytime). You are right that the tear staining can be normal in some breeds and there is nothing that can be done. I would get Juliette in to your Vet for an evaluation of her eyes and skin. Watch her closely to see if she is pawing her face or is licking her feet. If the staining is on her back feet then you have your answer, she is licking them. Your vet can prescribe medications for her eyes and something to stop the itch. There are not products that work consistently to remove the staining. You will have to stop the inciting cause then wait for the hair to grow out and get her groomed. I wish you the best!

Great question! There are tear stain removers you can buy from a pet store that helps remove Luna's tear stains. Some people report that quality of water affects tear stains, so you can give her purified water. Clean her face twice a day with a damp cloth to remove excess tears. I'd recommend using a glass, porcelain, or stainless steel bowl instead of plastic, as plastic bowls crack and can retain bacteria. I'd also recommend having Luna seen by a vet, as excessive tear stains can be caused by ingrown eye lashes or abnormally large tear producing glands, which can be treated surgically. Finally stress and poor diet can contribute to the product of tear stains, so make sure to feed her a high quality puppy formulated food. I recommend Royal Canin or Hills Science diet.

I recommend that you sue a medicated wipe like Dechra MalAcetic HC Wipes to clean the skin folds once daily. There is not magical way to keep it dry except to dry it with a clean towel when it gets wet, like after mealtimes or after bathing. If Rooney's eyes water more than seems normal, it may be wise to have him checked out by a vet to discuss possible causes and specific treatments. Many Bulldogs also have food allergies and some skin issues can be resolved by finding an appropriate dog food - this can also be discussed with your vet.