What Causes Tear Stains in Dogs?

If you've noticed reddish-brown marks beneath your dog's eyes, you're not alone. Tear stains are common in many dogs, particularly those with light-colored fur.

But what causes these stains, and what can you do about them?

Understanding the possible causes is the first step toward keeping your dog's face clean and comfortable.

What Are Tear Stains?

Tear stains are visible discolorations that develop in the fur around a dog's eyes. They often appear reddish-brown and can become more noticeable over time.

Tears naturally contain pigments called porphyrins, which can contribute to this discoloration when tears repeatedly wet the surrounding fur.

Tear staining is not necessarily a sign of illness. However, excessive tearing or a sudden change in your dog's eyes can sometimes indicate an underlying problem.

Why Do Dogs Develop Tear Stains?

Several factors may contribute to tear staining.

1. Natural Tear Production

Dogs produce tears to keep their eyes lubricated and protected. When tears spill onto the fur rather than draining normally, staining can develop.

2. Facial Anatomy

Some dogs have facial structures that make tear overflow more likely. Short-nosed breeds, dogs with prominent eyes, and dogs with certain eyelid shapes may experience more visible staining.

3. Fur Around the Eyes

Long facial hair can trap moisture or irritate the eyes when it grows too close to them.

Keeping the surrounding fur appropriately groomed may help reduce moisture buildup.

4. Eye Irritation

Dust, environmental allergens, stray hairs, and other irritants may increase tearing.

Persistent irritation should be evaluated by a veterinarian rather than managed through cosmetic cleaning alone.

5. Tear Drainage Problems

Tears normally drain through small ducts near the eyes. If drainage is impaired, tears may overflow onto the face.

A veterinarian can assess whether tear drainage or another eye condition is contributing to the problem.

Are Some Dog Breeds More Prone to Tear Stains?

Tear stains are often especially noticeable on dogs with white or light-colored coats.

Owners of breeds such as Maltese, Bichon Frise, Shih Tzu, Poodle, and other small companion dogs frequently notice staining.

However, tear stains can occur in dogs of many breeds and coat colors.

How Can You Help Manage Tear Stains?

A consistent care routine may help keep the area around your dog's eyes clean.

• Gently clean the fur around the eyes with a veterinarian-recommended product or a soft cloth dampened with lukewarm water.
• Keep the area dry after cleaning.
• Maintain appropriate facial grooming.
• Check regularly for redness, swelling, discomfort, or unusual discharge.
• Speak with your veterinarian if tearing is persistent, excessive, or new.

Avoid using harsh chemicals or products intended for human skin near your dog's eyes.

When Should You Contact a Veterinarian?

Contact your veterinarian if your dog develops:

• Sudden or excessive tearing
• Redness or swelling
• Yellow, green, or thick eye discharge
• Squinting or repeated pawing at the eyes
• Signs of pain or changes in vision
• Staining accompanied by persistent skin irritation

These symptoms may require veterinary evaluation.

Where Does OLLOS+ Fit Into a Dog's Routine?

OLLOS+ is a natural tear stain supplement for dogs formulated with turmeric, blueberries, cranberries, and slippery elm.

The powder is designed to be mixed with food as part of a dog's regular care routine.

OLLOS+ is not a treatment for eye infections, blocked tear ducts, or other medical conditions. Dogs with ongoing eye symptoms should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Explore OLLOS+ Natural Tear Stain Supplement for Dogs

Final Thoughts

Tear stains can have several causes, from natural tear overflow and facial anatomy to irritation or drainage problems.

Regular grooming and gentle cleaning can help maintain a clean facial area. If you notice unusual symptoms or persistent excessive tearing, veterinary advice is the safest next step.

Understanding your dog's individual needs is more important than trying to eliminate every visible stain.