Are you tired of seeing those tear stains on your dog’s fur? You’re not alone! Many pet owners face this common issue, but luckily, there are natural solutions to help keep your dog’s eyes clean and healthy.
In this blog, we’ll explore effective home remedies like saline solution, apple cider vinegar, and coconut oil that can help remove those stubborn stains. Let’s get started!
Why Do Dogs Get Tear Stains?
Dogs can get tear stains for a few different reasons. One common cause is blocked tear ducts. When the ducts that drain tears become blocked or narrowed, tears start spilling over and staining the fur underneath the eyes.
Some dog breeds are also more prone to tear stains. Breeds like Bulldogs, Poodles, and Shih Tzus often have facial features that contribute to tear production and drainage issues. Their unique eye shapes can make it harder for tears to flow properly.
Diet can also play a role. Some dogs may produce more tears because of allergies or because they are sensitive to some ingredients in their food. When dogs have excessive tear production, it leads to stains that can be hard to clean.
The reddish-brown color of these stains comes from iron-containing molecules called porphyrins. When tears overflow, these porphyrins can build up in the fur, which leads to stains.
Want to keep your dog’s eyes bright and stain-free? Learn more about prevention and discover effective solutions for tear stain care! Read our blog ‘What Causes Tear Stains in Dogs?’.
Natural Remedies for Removing Tear Stains
Here are six effective natural remedies to help you remove tear stains on your dog’s fur, explained in detail:
1. Saline Solution
A saline solution is an easy and gentle way to clean your dog’s eyes and reduce tear stains. To make it, dissolve one teaspoon of non-iodized salt in a cup of warm water. Soak a clean cloth or cotton ball in the saline solution and gently wipe the area under your dog’s eyes. The saline washes away any dirt or irritants and can calm any inflammation. It’s best to do this daily or a few times a week to keep this area clean and prevent further staining.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is not only an ingredient in the kitchen, but also a powerful natural remedy for many pet issues, including tear stains. Its acidity can help balance the pH level of your dog’s tears, which reduces the production of excess tears that cause staining. To use it, add a small amount (about half a teaspoon) of ACV to your dog’s water or food. Always introduce it slowly to avoid upsetting their stomach. Keep an eye on your dog for any signs of discomfort or allergies, and make sure they are drinking a lot of water. You can also use diluted ACV (mixed with equal parts water) as a topical treatment by applying it to the stained area with a cotton ball and gently wiping it off after a few minutes.
3. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a great moisturizer that can help with tear stains, and it’s also great for your dog’s skin and coat. The natural fatty acids in coconut oil can help soothe irritated skin, and its antibacterial properties can help prevent infection. To use it, take a small amount of organic coconut oil and warm it between your fingers to make it easier to apply. Gently rub the oil onto the stained area under your dog’s eyes. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, then wipe it off with a soft cloth.
4. Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda is a useful household item that can naturally brighten your dog’s fur. It helps get rid of bad smells and can work well to lift stains. To create a baking soda paste, mix one tablespoon of baking soda with a few drops of water until you have a thick paste. Apply this paste directly to the stained area and leave it on for about 10 minutes. Afterward, gently wipe it off with a damp cloth. Be careful not to get it into your dog’s eyes, and only use this once a week to avoid irritating the skin.
5. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is a gentle, natural remedy that can help with tear stains. It can reduce irritation and calm any redness around your dog’s eyes. To use it, make a cup of chamomile tea and let it cool down. Then, dip a cotton ball in the tea and gently dab it around the stained area. Chamomile also helps keep the area clean, which can stop more stains from forming.
6. Hydrogen Peroxide & Water Mixture
A mix of hydrogen peroxide and water can be used to clean tear stains on your dog’s fur gently. Hydrogen peroxide helps lighten the stains and remove any bacteria that might be causing them. To use this method, mix one part hydrogen peroxide with ten parts water. Make sure it’s well-diluted because hydrogen peroxide can be strong on its own.
Dip a cotton ball or soft cloth into the mixture, then gently dab it on the stained fur. Avoid getting it in your dog’s eyes. Let it sit for a few seconds, then wipe it off with a damp cloth to remove any leftover peroxide. Doing this once or twice a week can help naturally reduce tear stains and keep the fur around your dog’s eyes looking cleaner. Always be gentle and watch for any signs of irritation- if you notice any, stop using it and rinse the area with plain water.
Diet and Water Quality Considerations
What your dog eats and the water they drink is important for their health and can affect tear stains. Giving your dog good-quality food that has the right nutrients can help reduce tearing. Look for brands that don’t have fillers like corn or soy, because these can sometimes cause allergies. Make sure their diet is balanced, because, as we mentioned before, some foods can cause allergies or make them tear more.
The water your dog drinks is also very important. Always give them fresh, clean water. Dirty or old water can lead to health problems and can make tear stains worse. Using filtered or bottled water is a good idea if your tap water isn’t clean.
Preventative Tips for Tear Stains
Here are some helpful tips to prevent tear stains from forming on your dog’s fur:
1. Trim Facial Hair
It’s a good idea to keep the hair around your dog’s eyes trimmed because it can help reduce tear stains. Long fur can trap moisture and bacteria, which leads to more staining. Use small scissors or clippers to carefully trim the hair near the eyes. Just be gentle and make sure not to get too close to the skin or the eyes.
2. Monitor Allergies
If you notice that your dog’s tear stains seem to get worse at certain times, they may be reacting to allergens. Common allergens include pollen, dust, and certain foods. Keep an eye on your dog’s environment and diet to identify any potential triggers. If you think your dog is allergic to something, talk to your vet for advice on how to manage it.
3. Regular Grooming
Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe your dog’s eyes every few days. This helps remove any build-up of tears, dirt, and debris before it can stain the fur. Regular grooming also allows you to check for any signs of irritation or infection in their eyes.
4. Regular Vet Visits
It’s important to take your dog for regular check-ups because this can help catch any health issues early, including problems that may cause excessive tearing. Your vet can give you advice on maintaining your dog’s eye health and managing any underlying conditions that could lead to tear stains.
When to Consult a Vet
If you notice that your dog’s tear stains keep coming back even though you’re trying home remedies or regular grooming, it might be a sign that something else is happening.
Excessive tearing is another reason to consult your vet. If your dog’s eyes are watering more than usual, it could be due to allergies, irritants, or even an eye infection. It’s important to get to the root of the problem, especially if you see any yellow or green discharge coming from their eyes or if the area around their eyes is swollen or red.
Watch for changes in your dog’s behavior, too. If they seem uncomfortable, rub their eyes often, or show signs of irritation, it’s best to check in with your vet. Sometimes dogs will have trouble seeing if there’s a problem with their eyes, so if your dog is bumping into things, that’s another sign to seek help.
If you think your dog may have new allergies, especially if you notice tear stains along with skin irritation or inflammation, talking to your vet can help. They can help identify any allergies and suggest the right treatment.
Conclusion
Taking care of your dog’s eyes and managing tear stains is important for their health and happiness. By understanding what causes tear stains, like blocked tear ducts, allergies, or diet issues, you can take steps to help reduce them. Using natural remedies such as saline solution, apple cider vinegar, and coconut oil, along with good grooming habits, can help keep those stains away.
Pay attention to your dog’s diet and make sure they always have fresh water. This can really help their eye health, too. Regular visits to the vet are important for spotting any problems that might be causing too much tearing or discomfort.
If you see that tear stains keep coming back, your dog is tearing a lot, or they seem uncomfortable, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet. With the right care and attention, you can help keep your dog’s eyes clean and healthy.
