The Truth About Dog Tear Stains: Causes, Prevention, and the Best Diet for Clearer Eyes

Sarah loved everything about her fluffy Maltese, Bella—her playful energy, her little tail wags, and her warm cuddles. But there was one thing that frustrated her: those stubborn tear stains. No matter how often Sarah wiped Bella’s face, the reddish-brown marks would always return. After trying multiple wipes, shampoos, and even a tear stain remover from the pet store, she started wondering—why do some dogs have tear stains while others don’t? And more importantly, could Bella’s diet be the real culprit?

If you’re a dog owner facing the same issue, you’re not alone. Tear stains are a common problem, especially in light-colored breeds. But don’t worry—we’re about to break down everything you need to know, from what causes tear stains to how you can help reduce them naturally through proper care and nutrition.

What Are Tear Stains, and Why Do They Happen?

Tear stains appear as dark reddish-brown streaks under a dog’s eyes due to excessive tear production, a condition known as epiphora. While some dogs naturally have more watery eyes, the staining itself is caused by compounds called porphyrins—iron-containing molecules excreted through tears, saliva, and urine. When these porphyrins are exposed to air, they oxidize and darken, leaving behind noticeable stains (American Kennel Club).

But here’s the interesting part—some dogs have excessive tearing, while others don’t. Why? It usually comes down to these factors:

1. Facial Structure and Breed

Breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus are more prone to tear stains because of their short noses and prominent eyes, which make it harder for tears to drain properly. Dogs with longer snouts, like Border Collies, generally have better tear drainage (PetMD).

2. Blocked Tear Ducts

Some dogs have naturally narrow or clogged tear ducts, meaning their tears spill over instead of draining through the nose.

3. Allergies and Sensitivities

Bella’s story is a classic example—many dogs are allergic to common food ingredients like chicken, grains, or dairy, which can cause inflammation and excessive tearing.

4. Yeast and Bacteria Growth

When the fur under the eyes stays moist, it creates a perfect environment for yeast and bacteria to thrive, leading to darker stains and even mild infections.

5. Diet and Water Quality

Highly processed foods and poor-quality proteins can trigger inflammatory responses, leading to excessive tearing. Even something as simple as switching from tap water to filtered water has been known to reduce tear stains in some dogs.

How to Reduce and Prevent Tear Stains

After months of trial and error, Sarah finally found a routine that worked for Bella. If you’re struggling with tear stains on your pup, here are some proven ways to help:

1. Keep Their Face Clean

Gently wipe around your dog’s eyes daily with a damp cloth or pet-safe wipes to remove excess tears and prevent buildup.

2. Grooming Matters

For long-haired breeds, keeping the fur around the eyes trimmed prevents irritation and allows tears to evaporate instead of soaking into the fur.

3. Improve Their Diet

This was the game-changer for Bella. Switching to a diet rich in hypoallergenic proteins, like salmon and duck, significantly reduced her tear stains. More on that below!

4. Provide Filtered Water

Believe it or not, the minerals in tap water can contribute to staining. Switching to filtered or distilled water can sometimes make a noticeable difference.

5. Address Underlying Health Issues

If excessive tearing persists despite these changes, it’s worth checking with a vet to rule out infections, dental issues, or more serious allergies.

The Role of Diet in Preventing Tear Stains

After months of frustration, Sarah decided to take a closer look at Bella’s food. Could it really be making a difference? Turns out, yes! Nutrition plays a massive role in eye health and tear production. A processed diet with artificial additives can cause inflammation and excessive tearing, while natural, high-quality ingredients can reduce tear stains significantly (VCA Animal Hospitals).

So what should you be feeding your dog? Let’s look at the best food choices for reducing tear stains.

1. Hypoallergenic Proteins: Salmon & Duck

Instead of feeding Bella her usual chicken-based kibble, Sarah switched to foods with novel proteins—specifically, salmon and duck. These proteins are less likely to trigger allergies and are packed with nutrients that support skin and eye health.

• Salmon: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, salmon helps reduce inflammation and supports a healthy coat.

• Duck: A lean, easy-to-digest protein that’s perfect for dogs with food sensitivities.

High-quality, natural treats such as RawBites Freeze-Dried Salmon and Duck and Mini Duck Neck can be excellent additions to your dog’s diet, ensuring they get the best nutrition while helping reduce tear stains.

2. Grain-Free and Limited-Ingredient Diets

Some dogs react poorly to grains like wheat or corn, leading to inflammation and excessive tearing. Opting for grain-free or limited-ingredient diets can help eliminate potential allergens.

3. Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Found in salmon, these fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat while reducing tear-related inflammation.

FAQ: Common Questions About Dog Tear Stains

What is the fastest way to remove dog tear stains?

The quickest way is to clean the area daily with a damp cloth, switch to a high-quality diet, and provide filtered water. In some cases, a vet-approved tear stain remover may help.

Does diet really affect dog tear stains?

Yes! A poor diet can lead to inflammation and excessive tear production. Switching to hypoallergenic proteins like salmon and duck can significantly reduce tear stains.

Which dog breeds are prone to tear stains?

Breeds with short noses and shallow eye sockets, like Shih Tzus, Poodles, and Maltese, are more prone to excessive tearing.

What ingredients should I avoid to prevent tear stains?

Avoid artificial additives, chicken (if your dog has sensitivities), and grains like wheat and corn. Instead, opt for a high-protein, natural diet.

Conclusion

Sarah was thrilled to see Bella’s face finally free of tear stains. The combination of better grooming, cleaner water, and a diet rich in high-quality proteins like salmon and duck made all the difference.

If your furry friend is struggling with tear stains, take a step back and evaluate their diet and daily routine. A few simple changes—like switching to a hypoallergenic protein, using filtered water, and keeping their face clean—can lead to dramatic improvements.

Every dog is unique, but with patience and the right approach, your pup can enjoy a stain-free, happy life—just like Bella!