Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This means we may earn a commission if you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you.
Quick answer
Reddish-brown tear stains come from tears that spill onto the face and discolor the fur. Wipe the area gently every day with a clean damp cloth or vet-approved eye wipes, keep the hair trimmed and the face dry. Stains are often cosmetic, but a sudden increase, redness, squinting, thick discharge or a bad smell means a vet visit.
Tear stains are most visible on light-faced dogs such as Shih Tzus, Poodles, Maltese and Bichons. Many are harmless, but they can also be a clue that something needs attention, so it helps to understand what is going on before you reach for a cleaning product.
Why do dogs get tear stains?
All dogs make tears. Normally tears drain through small ducts into the nose. When too many tears are made, or they cannot drain well, they overflow onto the face. Tears contain pigments called porphyrins, and the wet, stained fur can look reddish-brown, especially in light-colored coats. Staying damp also gives yeast and bacteria a place to grow.
| Possible cause | Clues | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| Face shape or shallow tear drainage | Steady staining since puppyhood, flat or small-faced breed, eyes otherwise comfortable | Daily cleaning; mention it at routine vet visits |
| Hair irritating the eye | Long facial hair touching the eyes | Keep hair trimmed; ask a groomer |
| Allergies or irritants | Itching, sneezing, rubbing the face, seasonal flare-ups | See your vet; read about dog itching causes |
| Blocked tear duct or eyelid problems | Constant wetness on one or both sides, sometimes eyelids rolling in | Vet exam |
| Eye infection or injury | Redness, squinting, pawing at the eye, thick yellow or green discharge | Prompt vet visit |
| Yeast or skin irritation in damp fur | Odor, red or sore skin under the stain | Vet exam; do not self-treat with human products |
How to clean tear stains safely
- Get your dog comfortable. Have a calm moment, a few treats and a soft, clean cloth.
- Wipe gently once a day. Use a clean cloth dampened with warm water, or wipes made for dogs’ eyes and faces. Wipe away from the eye, never into it.
- Dry the fur. Leave no dampness behind. Damp fur invites yeast and bacteria.
- Comb through gently. A fine comb helps lift crusted debris. Be careful around the eyes; see our brush guide for tools.
- Trim hair around the eyes with rounded-tip scissors or let a groomer do it. See dog grooming basics at home.
- Be patient. Stained fur may stay discolored until it grows out, even when the cause is under control.
What to avoid
- Bleach, hydrogen peroxide and harsh whiteners. They can seriously irritate the eyes and skin.
- Anything not made for dogs near the eyes. Do not put human eye drops or products in your dog’s eyes unless your vet says so.
- Antibiotic supplements or medications without a vet. Some products are marketed for stains, but antibiotics should only be given under veterinary direction.
- Assuming it is “just stains.” A sudden change in tearing or a painful-looking eye should be checked.
When to see a vet
Call your vet if you notice:
- Squinting, holding an eye shut or pawing at the eye
- Red or swollen eyes or eyelids
- Thick yellow or green discharge
- A strong smell or sore skin around the eyes
- Sudden excessive tearing, or tearing in only one eye
Eye problems can worsen quickly. Our guide to the signs your dog may be unwell can help you decide how urgent something is.
Breeds that often struggle with tear stains
Light-coated and flat-faced breeds are most noticeable. See our Shih Tzu breed guide, Poodle breed guide and French Bulldog breed guide for breed-specific care.
Handy supplies
These are Amazon search links so you can compare options and read current reviews:
- Dog eye wipes
- Rounded-tip grooming scissors
- Stainless steel bowls (easy to keep clean)
We have not tested these categories and make no claims that any product removes stains. Ask your vet before using anything near your dog’s eyes.
Quick self-check
Tap each question to reveal the answer. This is not a diagnosis.
1. Your dog’s stains are steady, the eyes look comfortable and bright. What is a sensible plan?
Daily gentle cleaning, keep the area dry and mention it at the next routine vet visit.
2. One eye suddenly waters and your dog is squinting. What now?
Call your vet promptly. This could be an injury or infection.
3. Is hydrogen peroxide a safe stain remover near the eyes?
No. Avoid it and other harsh products near the eyes.
Frequently asked questions
Are tear stains harmful?
The stain itself is mostly cosmetic. The cause behind it, or the constant dampness, can sometimes need treatment, so unusual changes should be checked.
Will the stains go away permanently?
Stained hair usually does not fade; it grows out. Managing the cause and keeping the area clean helps new hair stay lighter.
Does food cause tear stains?
Evidence is mixed. Some owners see changes after a diet change, but no single food reliably causes or fixes stains. Your vet can help if you suspect a food allergy.
Do puppies get tear stains?
Yes. Some puppies tear more while their face and eye structures develop. Mention persistent tearing to your vet.
Sources and further reading
Featured photo: Robert Koorenny on Unsplash. This article is educational and is not a substitute for advice from your vet.