Tear Stains in Dogs: Causes, Care, and Solutions
Tear stains are a common issue familiar to many dog owners. They appear as reddish-brown marks under the eyes and are usually caused by excessive tearing (epiphora). The discoloration is due to porphyrins — natural pigments found in tears, urine, or saliva. Tear stains are most noticeable in dogs with white or light-colored coats.
Why Do Dogs Develop Tear Stains?
1. Epiphora
This is a medical term for excessive tear production or abnormal tear drainage. In some cases, epiphora is normal for certain breeds, such as Poodles, Shih Tzus, or Pekingese.
2. Eye Irritation
Tears help cleanse the eyes of dust, fur, allergens, or other irritants. However, prolonged irritation can lead to chronic tearing.
3. Tear Duct Blockage
Normally, tears drain through tear ducts into the nasal cavity. When the ducts are blocked or malfunction, tears flow down the fur.
4. Anatomical Features
Breeds with shallow eye sockets or large, protruding eyes are more prone to this issue.
5. Other Causes
These include allergies, eyelash abnormalities (ingrown or misaligned eyelashes), viral infections, increased intraocular pressure (glaucoma), or conditions like "cherry eye" (prolapse of the third eyelid).
Symptoms of Epiphora
- Excessive tearing
- Reddish-brown stains under the eyes
- Moist fur around the eyes
- Rubbing or scratching the eyes with paws
- Glassy shine in the eyes
How to Care for a Dog with Tear Stains?
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Hygiene
Regular cleaning of the fur around the eyes helps prevent the buildup of pigments and dirt. You can use a soft towel, warm water, or special wipes for this. -
Cleansing Products
One of the best options is Puramur Go White Paste. It is designed to remove organic stains around the eyes, muzzle, and other areas. Active ingredients such as white clay, zinc oxide, and hydrophobic silica dioxide effectively brighten the fur, prevent re-contamination, and reduce irritation. The paste is free from harsh chemicals, making it suitable for regular care.How to use: Apply a small amount of paste to dry fur, evenly distribute it, and let it dry. Leftovers can be easily removed with a wipe.
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Keep the Fur Short
It's better to trim the fur around the eyes and nose to avoid irritation. -
Regular Check-ups
If your pet develops new symptoms, such as yellow-green discharge or eye pain, consult a veterinarian immediately.
How to Prevent the Appearance of Tear Stains?
- Follow a balanced diet. Adding probiotics to the diet can reduce the formation of tear stains.
- Avoid situations that may cause eye irritation, such as contact with dust, smoke, or allergens.
- Use products that protect the fur from dirt, such as cleansing wipes or pastes.
Is it necessary to treat all cases of epiphora?
Treatment depends on the cause:
- If it is a result of the breed's genetic traits, epiphora does not require medical intervention, only regular care.
- In the case of infections or abnormalities (such as ingrown eyelashes or entropion), treatment or surgical intervention is needed.
Advantages of Using Puramur Go White Paste
- Effectively brightens the fur without harsh ingredients.
- Protects the fur from re-contamination due to its hydrophobic properties.
- Easy to use and safe for pets.
Caring for a dog with tear stains requires patience and consistency. With the right products, such as Puramur Go White, your pet will always look well-groomed, and its fur will remain clean and healthy!