Tear Staining Dogs | Tear Staining Canines

What causes Tear Staining Canine Eye problems?

There is nothing more heartwarming than the look of love and loyalty from your dog. But when your pet’s eyes are marred by tear staining, it turns a bright look into a sad face that no one wants to see. Tear staining not only looks ugly but can be an indication your pet has been in contact with dust irritants or have allergic reactions to toxins from food dyes and contaminants, cleaning chemicals or environmental pests

Almost all dogs suffer from tear staining problems once in a while, but breeds of white or light colored fur show staining more readily. Certain canine varieties like the Maltese, Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu and other long to medium coated dogs are more susceptible to tear staining. These breeds have a genetic predisposition to tear duct clogging due to the long hair that hangs into their eyes. Subsequently dogs with bulging eyes like Pugs and the Boston Terrier commonly get tear stains because their protruding oculars are inclined to become irritated due to greater surface area exposure.

Common causes for tear staining can come from blocked tear ducts which prevent the draining of eye fluid through the nose and form dried crust around the eyes and face. Blockage of the tear ducts can occur due to the genetic eye construction like those of the Bishon Frise, Chihuahua or Cocker Spaniel with their larger more extended orbs and the toy breeds like the Maltese who are born with fewer tear ducts than normal.

Another reason for tear staining happens when puppies begin teething and they start to cut their teeth which increases pressure on the structures of the head and mouth which in turn releases larger amounts of tear fluids in reaction to their chomping. This will cause staining on the nose and face but will subside once they grow larger and their adult teeth come in. Parasites can be a primary cause for tear staining. Fleas get their moisture from a dog’s tear making these little pests a nuisance for many reasons, however fleas close to the eyes can be particularly dangerous as infections caused by these parasite can create vision problems as well as other health issues.