Picture this: you’re cuddled up with your beloved canine companion, enjoying a quiet moment together. But as you look into their eyes, instead of seeing pure adoration, you notice something else – those stubborn tear stains, marring their otherwise pristine fur. As a dog owner, you understand the importance of keeping your furry friend happy and healthy, which is why finding the best dog tear stains remover becomes a top priority.
Every dog owner has been there – the frustration of trying countless remedies, the worry about potential health implications, and the longing for a solution that truly works. That’s where our journey begins. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of dog tear stains, unraveling the mysteries behind their appearance and unveiling the secrets to banishing them for good.
Understanding Tear Stains in Dogs:
Tear stains, those reddish-brown streaks that commonly form under your dog’s eyes, can be a perplexing sight for any pet owner. Beyond mere aesthetics, they often signal underlying issues that merit attention and care. So, let’s delve deeper into the world of tear stains to uncover their origins and potential remedies.
What are Tear Stains?
Tear stains, medically known as epiphora, result from excessive tearing, leading to the accumulation of pigment-rich tears on the fur around the eyes. While tear stains are most noticeable in dogs with light-colored fur, they can affect canines of all breeds and colors.
Understanding the Causes:
While the appearance of tear stains may seem straightforward, their underlying causes are multifaceted. Here are some factors to consider:
- Breed Predisposition: Certain breeds, such as Maltese, Shih Tzus, and Poodles, are genetically predisposed to tear stains due to their facial anatomy. Breeds with shallow eye sockets or prominent facial folds are more prone to tear overflow and subsequent staining.
- Genetics: Inherited factors can contribute to the production of excess tears or predispose certain breeds to eye-related conditions, increasing the likelihood of tear stains.
- Dietary Factors: Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining overall eye health. Nutritional deficiencies or sensitivities to specific ingredients may exacerbate tear production or lead to ocular irritation, resulting in tear stains.
- Environmental Irritants: Allergens, pollutants, and other environmental factors can irritate the delicate tissues around the eyes, triggering excessive tearing and subsequent staining of the fur.
Beyond Aesthetics:
While tear stains may be a cosmetic concern for pet owners, they can also signal underlying health issues that warrant veterinary attention. Chronic tear staining may indicate ocular infections, blocked tear ducts, corneal ulcers, or other ocular abnormalities requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Seeking Veterinary Guidance:
If your dog experiences persistent or severe tear staining, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian. A thorough examination can help identify any underlying health issues contributing to tear stains and guide the selection of appropriate treatment options.
Understanding the intricate factors contributing to tear stains is the first step toward effectively addressing them. By identifying and addressing the underlying causes, you can help your furry companion achieve not only a tear-stain-free appearance but also optimal ocular health and comfort.
It is classified as a disorder, and it can affect certain breeds due to a number of things that we’ll explain below.
In a dog without epiphora, normal tear drainage occurs when excess fluid from the eyes enters through the lacrimal duct and transfers to the nasolacrimal duct. To be specific, the tear ducts are there to drain excess tears in your pet’s eyes through the nose and into the back of their throat.
If your pet is suffering from epiphora, tears will instead leak out of the eyes onto their fur and skin.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tear Stains Remover:
Finding the right tear stains remover for your dog involves thinking about a few important things. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
Good Ingredients:
Make sure the remover you pick has gentle, safe ingredients. Look for natural stuff like chamomile and aloe vera, which are good for your dog’s skin. These ingredients can help get rid of tear stains without causing any harm.
Does it Work?
You’ll want to choose a remover that actually gets the job done. Check out what other pet owners are saying about it. If lots of people say it works well, chances are it’s a good choice.
Is it Safe?
Safety should always come first. Pick a remover that’s made specifically for your dog’s eyes and doesn’t have any harsh chemicals. It’s best to go for something gentle that won’t irritate your dog’s skin.
Easy to Use:
Using the remover should be easy and hassle-free. Look for something that’s simple to apply and doesn’t require a lot of extra steps. Wipes or solutions that you can just wipe around your dog’s eyes are usually a good bet.
Good for the Environment:
It’s also nice to think about the environment. Try to choose a remover that’s made with eco-friendly ingredients and packaging. That way, you can help keep the planet healthy while taking care of your dog.
So, when you’re picking a tear stains remover for your furry friend, remember to think about ingredients, effectiveness, safety, ease of use, and environmental impact. By considering these things, you can find a remover that works well and keeps your dog happy and healthy.
Best Dog Tear Stains Removers for Quick Results
Ready to bid farewell to those stubborn tear stains? We’ve handpicked a selection of tear stains removers that stand out for their effectiveness and ease of use. Here are our top recommendations to help you achieve quick and noticeable results:
Burt’s Bees for Dogs Tear Stain Remover with Chamomile
Who doesn’t love Burt’s Bees? Your furry friend might, too, as Burt’s Bees is the #1 pet grooming brand across the board, and for good reason.
Their tear stain remover employs a chamomile essence to cleanly and naturally remove tear stains from your pup’s eyes and face. They made sure to make the pH balance suitable for dogs of all shapes, sizes, and ages.
Personal Review: I’ve been using Burt’s Bees products for years, so when I found out they had a tear stain remover for dogs, I had to give it a try. Not only does it effectively remove tear stains, but it also leaves my pup’s fur feeling soft and smelling great. Plus, knowing that it’s made with natural ingredients gives me peace of mind.
Get it here.
Bodhi Dog New Natural Tear Eye Stain Remover
Bodhi is another brand that makes a sincere effort to naturally source its ingredients, both to protect your pet from chemicals and to use natural techniques to reduce stain appearances.
This remover serum is made to be gentle on the skin while lightening existing stains and shielding against new ones.
Personal Review: I recently started using Bodhi Dog’s tear stain remover, and I’m impressed with the results. Not only does it effectively remove tear stains, but it also seems to prevent them from coming back as quickly. Plus, I love that it’s made with natural ingredients, so I feel good about using it on my pup.
Get it here.
Four Paws Dog and Cat Grooming Tear Stain Remover
Last but not least for our picks of the best tear stain remover for dogs, here we have the Four Paws Grooming remover. That’s right—this one can be used on cats as well, who can also suffer from epiphora and excess tearing!
This remover will help reduce stain appearances of all sorts, so you could say this one’s an all-purpose stain remover for your pet’s delicate fur.
Personal Review: I’ve used Four Paws products for my pets before, so I had high expectations for their tear stain remover. It did not disappoint! Not only did it effectively remove tear stains from both my dog and cat, but it also didn’t irritate their skin. Plus, the fact that it’s safe for both dogs and cats is a huge bonus.
Get them here.
Arava Pet Eye Wipes
If you’re looking for a seamless addition to a simple daily grooming routine, you might find it in the Arava eye wipes for pets. These wipes are so easy to use—just dab or gently rub away the stains for a cleaner, brighter appearance.
They make these wipes allergy-free and soft on sensitive eyes, so they’ll be comfortable for your pet, too!
Personal Review: I started using Arava Pet Eye Wipes a few weeks ago, and I’m impressed with how easy and effective they are. They make cleaning my dog’s tear stains quick and hassle-free, and I love that they’re gentle on his sensitive eyes. Plus, they’re a convenient addition to our daily grooming routine.
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Petpost Tear Stain Remover Wipes
For more pampered pets (it’s okay, we do it too!), you might want to go with the Petpost Stain Remover wipes, concocted with a juniper berry and coconut-based formula. These ingredients are all-natural and will ensure that there is no pain while you rub around your pet’s eyes.
In fact, these just might be the most gentle pet wipes out there right now so it’s no question why they’re always in hot demand.
Personal Review: I’ve tried a few different tear stain remover wipes, but Petpost’s are by far my favorite. Not only are they gentle on my dog’s eyes, but they also effectively remove tear stains with minimal effort. Plus, the juniper berry and coconut formula smells amazing!
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Miracle Care Eye Clear Sterile Eye Wash Pads
If high-quality eye wipes are your goal, another of the best solutions is the Miracle Care Wash Pad bundle. These sterile pads use Miracle Care’s exclusive Eye Clear formula to ensure the most effective stain removal.
Using these wipes will drastically simplify any daily grooming routine, and they’d be a great addition to your arsenal of pet products.
Personal Review: I’ve been using Miracle Care Eye Clear Sterile Eye Wash Pads for a while now, and I’m impressed with their effectiveness. Not only do they remove tear stains quickly and efficiently, but they also leave my dog’s eyes feeling clean and refreshed. Plus, the sterile pads give me peace of mind knowing that they’re safe for my pup’s delicate eyes.
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Vetericyn Plus Eye Wash for Dogs
The eye flush solution from Vetericyn Plus could be a great addition to your pup’s regular bathing routine. It doesn’t always have to be used then, but integrating it into that space could ensure regularity of use.
This wash is anti-microbial and pain-free, effective on all pets including dogs. Recommended by vets across the country, we’d also peg this as one of the best.
Personal Review: I’ve been using Vetericyn Plus Eye Wash for Dogs for a few months now, and it’s become a staple in my dog’s grooming routine. It’s easy to use and gentle on his eyes, and I’ve noticed a significant improvement in his tear stains since incorporating it into his routine. Plus, knowing that it’s recommended by vets gives me confidence in its effectiveness and safety.
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Tomlyn Opticlear Sterile Eye Wash for Dogs and Cats
The sterile eyewash from Tomlyn is another unique solution that could have you and your pet seeing results quickly. When your dog accumulates crust around the eyes from excess tears, it can cause discomfort.
While promising to help prevent tear stains, this will also help relieve any discomfort caused by the crusting.
Personal Review: Tomlyn Opticlear Sterile Eye Wash has been a game-changer for my pets. Not only does it effectively remove tear stains, but it also soothes any irritation or discomfort caused by excess tearing. It’s easy to use and provides quick relief for my pets, making it an essential part of our grooming routine.
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Angel’s Eyes 120 Count Natural Chicken Formula Soft Chews for Dogs
The first chew on the list is Angel’s Eyes offering—chicken-flavored chews that promise to help promote a healthy, naturally glimmering, stain-free coat.
You can give these chews to any pet who is fully teethed (normally over 6 weeks). They’re sure to love the chicken flavor, and dosing is kept simple so you don’t have to overthink it.
Personal Review: Angel’s Eyes Natural Chicken Formula Soft Chews have been a game-changer for my dog’s tear stains. Not only do they effectively reduce tear stains, but they also promote overall coat health. Plus, my dog loves the chicken flavor, making them easy to administer. I’ve noticed a significant improvement in his tear stains since starting these chews.
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Petpost Tear Stain Soft Chews
Lastly, we have the Petpost Tear Stain chews, which they 100% guarantee your pet will love. Petpost manufactures these chews in the United States and ensures that their formula is completely Tylosin-free, in other words, made with guaranteed safe, natural ingredients.
They claim that in just 6-8 weeks of feeding with their chews, even the most snow-white of pups will present with fewer visible tear stains.
Personal Review: Petpost Tear Stain Soft Chews have exceeded my expectations. Not only do they effectively reduce tear stains, but they’re also made with safe, natural ingredients. Plus, my dog loves the taste, making it easy to administer. I’ve noticed a significant improvement in his tear stains since starting these chews, and I love that they’re made in the USA.
Get them here.
Particular Paws Tear Stain Remover for Dogs
Particular Paws offers a dog tear stain remover that will not disappoint. In fact, they guarantee this with hassle-free refunds and 100% money back if you’re not seeing results.
This remover will lighten stains, protect against crusting, and make your pup happy and tear-free.
Personal Review: I was skeptical at first, but Particular Paws’ tear stain remover really lives up to its promises. After just a few uses, I noticed a significant improvement in my dog’s tear stains. Plus, their money-back guarantee gave me peace of mind when trying it out
Ocusoft Eye Wash Irrigating Solution Sterile Isotonic-Buffered
The Ocusoft Eye Wash is an eyelid cleanser that will work on your pet. Instead of being a completely liquid pour-in solution, this one is a foam consistency, easier for lathering and gentle scrubbing.
For a pup with sensitive eyes, the formula is concentrated on remaining unnoticeable and non-irritating. Overall, this is a great choice if you want the most comfortable experience for your furry friend.
Personal Review: Ocusoft Eye Wash Irrigating Solution has been a lifesaver for my dog with sensitive eyes. The foam consistency makes it easy to apply and ensures thorough cleansing without causing any irritation. Plus, it’s gentle yet effective, leaving my dog’s eyes clean and comfortable.
Home Remedies and DIY Solutions:
If you prefer a more natural approach to treating tear stains, you’re in luck! There are several home remedies and do-it-yourself solutions that can effectively tackle tear stains using ingredients you likely already have at home. From gentle cleansers to soothing herbal remedies, here are some DIY options to consider:
1. Chamomile Tea Rinse: Chamomile tea is known for its soothing properties and can be used to gently cleanse and soothe your dog’s tear-stained fur. Brew a strong cup of chamomile tea, allow it to cool to room temperature, then use a clean cloth or cotton pad to gently dab the tea onto your dog’s tear stains. Chamomile’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce redness and irritation while promoting healing.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar Solution: Apple cider vinegar is a versatile ingredient with natural antibacterial properties, making it an excellent choice for combating tear stains. Mix equal parts of water and apple cider vinegar, then use a cotton ball or pad to apply the solution to your dog’s tear-stained fur. Be sure to avoid getting the solution in your dog’s eyes, and rinse thoroughly with water after application.
3. Coconut Oil Massage: Coconut oil is not only nourishing for your dog’s skin and coat but can also help break down tear stains and prevent them from forming. Gently massage a small amount of coconut oil into your dog’s tear-stained fur, focusing on areas with heavy staining. Allow the oil to sit for a few minutes, then wipe away any excess with a clean cloth or tissue. Coconut oil’s moisturizing properties can help soften crusty tear stains and make them easier to remove.
4. Oatmeal Paste: Oatmeal is a soothing and gentle ingredient that can help alleviate irritation and inflammation associated with tear stains. Mix finely ground oatmeal with water to create a thick paste, then apply it to your dog’s tear-stained fur. Allow the paste to sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water. Oatmeal’s natural cleansing properties can help remove tear stains while soothing your dog’s skin.
5. Rosewater Rinse: Rosewater is known for its calming and refreshing properties and can be used to cleanse and brighten your dog’s tear-stained fur. Dilute pure rosewater with an equal amount of water, then use a clean cloth or cotton pad to gently wipe away tear stains. Rosewater’s gentle astringent properties can help tighten pores and reduce tear stain discoloration over time.
6. Green Tea Compress: Green tea contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce redness and irritation associated with tear stains. Brew a cup of green tea, allow it to cool to room temperature, then soak a clean cloth or cotton pad in the tea. Gently apply the compress to your dog’s tear-stained fur, holding it in place for a few minutes. Repeat this process daily to help alleviate tear stains and promote healing.
7. Regular Grooming Practices: In addition to home remedies, maintaining a regular grooming routine can help prevent tear stains from becoming a recurring issue. Be sure to keep your dog’s fur trimmed around the eyes to minimize moisture retention and bacterial growth. Additionally, gently wiping your dog’s eyes with a clean, damp cloth daily can help remove excess tear buildup and prevent tear stains from forming.
Remember, while home remedies can be effective, it’s essential to patch-test new products and consult with your vet before trying any new remedies, especially if your dog has sensitive skin or underlying health conditions. With a little patience and TLC, you can effectively tackle tear stains and keep your dog looking and feeling their best.
