If you have a light-coloured dog — a Maltese, Bichon Frise, Poodle or Shih Tzu — you're probably familiar with those reddish-brown streaks beneath the eyes. Frustrating as they are, tear stains aren't necessarily a sign of poor hygiene. Some dogs are simply more prone to them because of genetics, facial structure, or how their tears drain.
So what causes them, how do you manage them, and when should you be concerned?
What Causes Dog Tear Stains?
The medical term for excessive tearing is epiphora. Normally, a dog's tears drain through tiny ducts near the eyes into the nasal passages. When tears overflow onto the face instead, the surrounding fur stays damp — and over time, naturally occurring compounds in tears called porphyrins cause the familiar reddish-brown discolouration on light-coloured coats.
The stain itself isn't the problem. The question is why tears are overflowing.
Common causes include:
- Genetics and facial structure — flat-faced breeds (Pugs, Shih Tzus) have anatomy that affects tear drainage; prominent eyes and shallow eye sockets also contribute
- Blocked or narrow tear ducts — some dogs are born with ducts that simply don't drain efficiently
- Hair around the eyes — long facial hair absorbs tears and keeps skin damp; it can also irritate the eye directly
- Eyelash and eyelid problems — conditions such as distichiasis (abnormal lashes) or entropion (inward-rolling eyelid) cause irritation and excess tearing
- Allergies and environmental irritants — dust, pollen, smoke and cleaning sprays can trigger watery eyes
- Underlying eye problems — irritation, foreign bodies or corneal damage may all cause excessive tearing
Are Tear Stains a Sign of Poor Hygiene?
Not necessarily. Breed, facial anatomy and tear drainage all play a role, and a dog with excellent grooming can still develop noticeable staining. That said, keeping the area clean and dry does help manage the appearance.
When to See Your Vet
Tear stains are usually cosmetic, but the underlying cause may need treatment. Contact your vet if:
- Tearing appears suddenly or is getting noticeably worse
- The eye looks red, swollen or cloudy
- Your dog is squinting or keeping an eye partially closed
- Your dog frequently rubs or paws at their face
- There is yellow, green or thick discharge
- The skin beneath the eyes becomes sore, raw or develops an unpleasant smell
- Your dog seems uncomfortable or sensitive to light
A tear-stain remover may improve the look of the fur, but it won't solve the reason excessive tears are being produced in the first place.
How to Manage Dog Tear Stains
Stained fur generally has to grow out or be groomed away — overnight fixes aren't realistic. A consistent routine, however, can keep the area cleaner and more comfortable.
1. Clean the area regularly Gently wipe around the eyes with a soft cloth dampened with warm water, or use a product specifically designed for use around dogs' eyes. Our Jumbo Eye Wipes for Cats & Dogs are a convenient, dog-safe option. Avoid rubbing aggressively — the skin here is delicate.
2. Keep the fur dry After cleaning, pat the area dry with a clean, soft cloth. Trapped moisture can encourage microorganisms that cause odour and skin irritation.
3. Keep facial hair neatly trimmed Long hairs collect tears and can irritate the eye. If you're not confident trimming close to the eye yourself, a professional groomer can help.
4. Look at the bigger picture If staining persists, consider whether there are other signs — watery eyes, itching, redness or discharge. Your vet can examine the eyes and tear drainage system to determine whether there's an underlying cause worth treating.
Choosing Tear-Stain Products Safely
Always use products specifically formulated for use around dogs' eyes. Our Jumbo Eye Wipes for Cats & Dogs (80 Pack) are a safe, practical option.
Never use the following around your dog's eyes:
- Hydrogen peroxide or bleach
- Household cleaning products
- Vinegar or homemade chemical mixtures
- Human cosmetics or eye drops (unless specifically recommended by your vet)
The eye area is extremely sensitive. An attempt to remove a cosmetic stain with an unsuitable product could cause serious irritation or injury. If you're unsure about a product, ask your vet first.
Can Diet or Water Make a Difference?
Diet is sometimes discussed in relation to tear staining, but no single food or ingredient has been proven to eliminate it. Your dog should eat a complete, balanced diet appropriate for their age and needs. Some owners report improvement after switching to filtered water, particularly in hard-water areas, though this isn't a guaranteed fix. Neither dietary change should substitute for investigating the underlying cause if tearing is persistent.
What About Puppies?
Tear staining can be especially noticeable in light-coated puppies. As their facial structure matures, staining sometimes becomes less pronounced. However, if a puppy has watery eyes alongside redness, discharge or squinting, don't assume it's just growing pains — speak to your vet.
Can Tear Stains Be Prevented?
Not always. Genetics, facial structure and tear drainage mean some dogs are naturally prone to staining regardless of how well they're groomed. Regular cleaning, keeping the fur dry and addressing any underlying excessive tearing will give you the best chance of keeping it under control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tear stains painful for dogs? The stains themselves aren't painful, but the cause of excessive tearing may be. Redness, squinting, rubbing or discharge should always be taken seriously.
Why does my white dog have brown fur under its eyes? Porphyrins — naturally occurring compounds found in tear secretions — cause reddish-brown discolouration when they remain on light-coloured fur and are exposed to air.
Can I use human eye wipes on my dog? It's safer to use products specifically designed for dogs. Human products may contain ingredients that aren't appropriate for pets. Our Jumbo Eye Wipes for Cats & Dogs are a gentle, dog-safe alternative.
The Bottom Line
Dog tear stains are frustrating, but they're not automatically a sign that something is wrong. Regular cleaning, good grooming and keeping the fur dry will help manage the appearance. If your dog is producing excessive tears, though, the priority is finding out why — not just removing the visible marks. Healthy, comfortable eyes matter far more than a spotless coat.
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your dog's eyes or notice a sudden change, consult your vet.