4 Causes of Severe Dog Tear Stains (and Fixes)

1 Causes and Fixes for Dog Tear Stains

Today we explain why dog tear stains form and how to handle them!

Cause 1: Poor diet

If food is high in salt or oil, tear stains appear; some additives cause sensitivity and excess tearing.

Check the ingredient list; buy simple, low-salt, low-oil food, same for homemade.

Fixes:

1. Cut salt; don’t feed your table scraps long-term.

2. Reduce heavily processed food.

3. More water; cool boiled water is best.

Cause 2: Genetic disease

Experienced owners notice Pomeranians and Teddies get tear stains — from primary excessive tearing, a common hereditary disease.

Studies: nearly half of small dogs are born with shallow, closed tear ducts. Shallow eye space can’t hold tears, so they spill and stain.

Fixes:

1. Trim fur around the eyes to avoid irritation and tearing.

2. Regular eye massage helps open the nasolacrimal duct and reduce tears.

Cause 3: Pathological factors

Illness also causes stains — ear inflammation, ear mites, eye inflammation narrow or block tear ducts, forcing tears out. Common in Pekingese, pugs, Chihuahuas (big-eyed breeds).

Fixes:

1. Clean eyes and ears regularly to keep dirt out.

2. At signs of red, swollen eyes, see a vet promptly for eye care.

Cause 4: Eyelid inversion (entropion)

Entropion means lashes rub the cornea; the dog tears constantly, causing severe stains.

Fixes:

Watch for pawing at the face; check for entropion and treat promptly.