We all strive to look our best. There are cosmetic remedies and prescription medicines for dark circles and puffy eyes. The same is true for dogs that have reddish-brown stains under their eyes.
There are many reasons why a dog has tear stains. It is trial and error to figure out which is causing the problem in your dog. Every dog has a different chemical makeup and lives in a different environment; therefore the eye stain culprit can vary from dog to dog.
Some dogs have a genetic predisposition when it comes to tear staining. Researching the direct lineage of your pup will help to determine if your pup will experience tearing and staining. If mom and pop have clean eyes, most likely the same will be true for their pups.
A food allergy can be the culprit of tear stains. Some dogs have sensitivity to food coloring and preservatives. Switching your dog to a diet of all natural dog food and treats can make a difference with the staining.
The overall health of your dog is a key factor in controlling tear stains. An ear infection, clogged tear ducts or eye lashes that keep getting in the corner of your dog’s eye can cause excessive tearing. Having a Veterinarian examine your pet will determine if tearing is a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
Fleas irritate the eyes and make them tear. This is how they create the wet face habitat they thrive in. Fleas feed on a dog’s blood which causes their feces to be a reddish brown color. The same color as tear stains.
Pet owners have been known to treat eye stains at home. Adding a teaspoon of white cider vinegar to your dog’s water bowl or giving your dog TUMS are some common homemade remedies. Another popular solution is equal parts milk of magnesia, corn starch and hydrogen peroxide made into a paste and applied to the stained area. Before a portrait, dog owners and handlers have been known to whiten up a coat by rubbing corn starch into the coat.
Keeping dirt and hair out of your dog’s eyes and staying alert of any changes like excessive licking, or goopy eye conditions is the best way to keep your pet’s eyes healthy. Seek advice from a Veterinarian and/or dog groomer about treating the sensitive eye area.
There are several reasons why a dog would have tear stains. It is trial and error to determine the cause of the problem in your dog. Joanne Gallagher is an authority in caring for your dog and recommends visiting Jake’s Dog House for different solutions for tear stain removal.
