Tear Stains in Dogs: Causes and Natural Remedies

Tear Stains in Dogs: Causes and Natural Remedies: These are a common issue in many dogs, especially those with light-coloured coats. These reddish-brown marks beneath the eyes can be frustrating for pet owners, but they’re often more than just a cosmetic problem.

Tear stains can indicate underlying health issues or dietary imbalances. In this post, we’ll explain what causes tear stains and how you can remedy them naturally to keep your dog looking and feeling their best.

What Causes Tear Stains?

Tear stains occur when a dog’s eyes produce excess tears, which mix with bacteria and yeast, leading to those unsightly discolorations. Here are some common causes:

1. Blocked Tear Ducts: If your dog’s tear ducts are blocked or not functioning properly, tears may not drain correctly, leading to staining.

2. Allergies: Environmental irritants like pollen, dust, or certain food ingredients can cause excess tear production as the body’s response to allergens.

3. Diet: Processed foods or diets that are high in additives, fillers, and artificial preservatives can cause inflammation and allergies, contributing to tear stains. Some dogs may also have sensitivities to certain proteins or grains.

4. Yeast Infection: The moist environment around the eyes provides a perfect breeding ground for yeast, particularly if the area isn’t cleaned regularly. This can darken the tear stains and even cause discomfort for your dog.

5. Genetics: Certain breeds are more prone to tear stains due to the structure of their eyes or faces. Dogs with flat faces, like Shih Tzus, Bulldogs, or Pugs, and breeds with light coats, like Maltese or Bichon Frise, often experience more tear staining.

Natural Remedies for Tear Stains

If your dog is struggling with tear stains, there are natural solutions you can try to reduce or eliminate the problem. Here are a few steps you can take:

1. Switch to a Natural Diet

One of the most effective ways to reduce tear stains is by feeding your dog a natural, biologically appropriate diet. At K9 Catering, we specialise in raw dog food that is free from artificial additives and fillers. By switching to a high-quality, raw diet, you may see a significant improvement in your dog’s overall health, including a reduction in tear staining. Natural foods reduce inflammation and allergic reactions, which are often the culprits behind excessive tearing.

2. Keep the Eye Area Clean

Regularly cleaning your dog’s eye area is crucial to preventing tear stains from worsening. Use a soft, damp cloth or pet-safe wipes to gently clean the area around their eyes every day. Make sure to dry the area thoroughly afterward, as yeast thrives in moist conditions. Keeping the fur around your dog’s eyes trimmed can also help minimize staining and prevent irritation.

3. Filtered Water

Believe it or not, the water your dog drinks can contribute to tear stains. Tap water often contains minerals and impurities that can worsen staining. Switching to filtered or distilled water can help reduce the build up of these minerals in your dog’s system, leading to cleaner, clearer eyes.

4. Natural Supplements

In addition to a clean diet, certain natural supplements can help address the root causes of tear stains:

– Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3s, found in fish oil or supplements like salmon oil, are great for reducing inflammation and supporting overall skin and coat health. They can also help reduce allergies, which often lead to excessive tearing.

– Colloidal Silver: This natural antibacterial and antifungal supplement can help combat yeast overgrowth, which is a common cause of tear stains. Colloidal silver can be applied topically around the eyes to reduce staining caused by yeast infections.

5. Check for Allergies

If tear stains persist despite these efforts, it’s worth investigating potential allergens. Food sensitivities are a common cause of tear stains in dogs. Try eliminating potential allergens like chicken, grains, or certain proteins from their diet and observe if the tear stains improve. At K9 Catering, we can help you identify potential food triggers and recommend the right raw food options to minimize allergic reactions.

Tear stains may be frustrating, but they don’t have to be a permanent problem. By making simple changes to your dog’s diet, cleaning routine, and water source, you can often see a significant improvement. At K9 Catering, we’re passionate about helping pet owners provide their dogs with the healthiest, most natural diet possible.

If you have any questions or need advice on how to switch your dog to a natural diet or supplements, don’t hesitate to contact us or visit our shop. We’re here to help your dog look and feel their best!

Did you enjoy reading this blog? Find our other blogs here