PET42 guide
Tear stains in dogs: causes, care and feeding tips
Tear flow, porphyrins and moisture can stain pale fur. Gentle care and investigation of underlying causes help more than aggressive cleaning.
What really helps – and what makes it worse
Tear stains are a common issue for many dogs and are particularly noticeable on light-coloured fur. They are often seen as purely a care problem, but the causes usually lie deeper.
What are dog tear stains?
Tear stains are reddish-brown or rust-coloured discolourations in the fur. They mainly occur under the eyes, but can also occur around the mouth, on the paws, in the beard or in the genital area. Such discolouration can occur wherever fur comes into regular contact with tears or saliva.
Why do tear stains appear?
Tears perform important functions: they moisten, protect and clean the eye. At the same time, however, they contain proteins, fats, minerals and so-called porphyrins. These pigments are formed during the natural breakdown of haemoglobin and are normally excreted through the intestines.
If porphyrins get into the fur through tears or saliva, it becomes discoloured - particularly visible in light fur. In addition, persistent moisture creates an environment in which bacteria or yeast can multiply more easily, which increases the discolouration.
Which often makes tear stains worse
Many measures have a short-term effect, but exacerbate the problem in the long term:
- aggressive cleaning or bleaching products
- alcohol-containing solutions
- strong or frequent rubbing
- unsuitable home remedies
They irritate the skin and eyes and can also stimulate tear production.
Which can really help
A gentle, consistent approach has proven successful:
- daily careful cleaning with mild, eye-safe products
- Keep fur around the eyes short and clean
- Remove moisture regularly
- Reduce irritants in the environment
Feeding also plays a role: a diet that is not optimally balanced can affect metabolism, mucous membranes and tear flow. Tear stains are therefore often not just a care problem, but rather an indication of an internal imbalance.
Conclusion
Tear stains don’t appear overnight and can rarely be “groomed” quickly. Patience, gentle care and appropriate feeding are the most sustainable way to reduce discolouration and prevent new stains.
Frequently asked questions
Answered briefly and understandably
Where do tear stains in dogs come from?
Often caused by increased tear flow, blocked tear ducts or irritation. Food and grooming can also play a role.
Does a change in food help?
If your dog has intolerances, a change can help. However, it is important to have the cause clarified specifically.
Advice tailored to your dog
Find the right food and portion size for your dog
Tear stains can also be caused by feeding that is not optimally coordinated.
PET42 creates an individual food recommendation, independent of manufacturers, based on your dog’s details. This includes the appropriate food quantity in grams, tailored to activity, goals and tolerance.
Questionnaire, checkout and feeding advice are provided in German.
