How to Remove Tear Stains From Dogs: Causes and Fixes

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Reddish-brown streaks beneath the eyes are a familiar problem for Maltese, Bichons, Poodles, Shih Tzus and other light-faced dogs. They are mostly cosmetic but sometimes point to a health issue, so understanding them helps you manage them safely.

What causes them

Tears contain pigments called porphyrins. When tears sit on fur, bacteria, yeast and light cause the pigments to darken, leaving rust-colored stains. Excess tearing makes it worse. Causes include:

• Shallow or blocked tear ducts that let tears overflow
• Hair irritating the eye, such as long facial hair or ingrown lashes
• Allergies, either food or environmental. See dog skin allergies
• Eye irritation or infection
• Dental problems, especially in puppies when teeth erupt
• Face shape, with prominent eyes or flat faces
• Yeast growth in damp fur

See your vet first

Before treating staining, rule out medical causes. A vet can check the eyes, tear ducts, lashes and teeth, and advise whether tearing is excessive. Sudden new staining, redness or discharge needs prompt attention. See why a dog's eye is red or discharging.

Daily management

1. Wipe daily. Use a clean, damp cloth or cotton pad with warm water, or a vet-approved eye wipe. See how to clean dog eyes safely.
2. Dry the area. Moisture breeds yeast.
3. Comb the area. A fine-toothed comb removes crust. Be careful around the eyes.
4. Trim hair. Keep hair short around the eyes. See how to trim hair around a dog's eyes.
5. Wash the face regularly with a mild dog shampoo, keeping it out of the eyes.

What about diet and supplements?

Some owners try filtered water, diet changes or supplements. Evidence is limited, and some products contain antibiotics, which should never be given without a vet's prescription. Ask your vet before changing anything. See feeding a dog with food allergies.

Products to avoid

• Bleach, peroxide and harsh cleaners
• Human eye makeup removers
• Powders and tear-stain remedies of unknown composition
• Over-the-counter antibiotics or supplements without veterinary advice

Old stains versus new

Existing stained fur will not clear by cleaning, because the pigment is in the hair. It grows out, and trimming helps. New staining stops when the cause is controlled.

Grooming tips for white-coated dogs

Brush and wipe the face daily, wash weekly if needed and keep the area dry. See Maltese grooming and Poodle coat care.

When staining is serious

Seek urgent veterinary care if the eye is red, painful, cloudy or squinting. Chronic wetness, sores or odor on the face also need attention.

A daily two-minute face routine

1. Moisten a soft pad with warm water or a vet-approved wipe.
2. Wipe from the inner corner of each eye outward, using a clean section for each wipe.
3. Comb through the fur under the eyes with a fine comb to loosen crust.
4. Dry the area with a clean cloth.
5. Reward your dog with a treat and a cuddle.

Water bowls and hygiene

Wash food and water bowls daily, since bacteria and yeast thrive in dirty bowls. Stainless steel and ceramic are easier to clean than plastic, which can develop scratches that harbor germs. Keep the area around the mouth dry and clean, because saliva also contains porphyrins and can stain the muzzle.

The takeaway

Find the cause with your vet, keep the face clean and dry and avoid risky remedies. Stains are usually cosmetic, but the cause is worth checking.