28/11/2025
What’s causing those rusty-brown marks under your dog’s eyes?
If you’ve noticed red or brown streaks under your dog’s eyes, it’s usually nothing catastrophic – but it is very common. Especially in dogs with light fur, prominent eyes or shallow sockets.
These marks are called “tear stains” and while they’re often just cosmetic, sometimes they hint at underlying issues.
What are tear stains?
Tear stains appear as reddish-brown lines or patches beneath the eyes. They develop when too much tear fluid is produced, or when the tears aren’t draining away like they should – so moisture stays on the fur and causes discoloration.
Most dogs get a bit of staining. Some breeds show it much more. It’s not always a sign of illness, but it's worth monitoring.
Common causes of tear stains
Some of the main reasons your dog might show significant staining:
• Breed anatomy & tear duct issues: Dogs with flat faces or shallow eye sockets (e.g., short-muzzled breeds) often have tear ducts positioned in a way that doesn’t drain well.
• Eye irritation or eyelid problems: Conditions like ingrown lashes, eyelid rolling in/out, or even foreign particles can lead to extra tears and staining.
• Porphyrins: These are natural pigments in tear fluid and saliva. Some dogs produce more than others and their fur shows the staining more clearly when these pigments oxidise.
• Diet & sensitivities: Food allergies, sensitivities or a low-quality diet can increase tear production or eye irritation – both of which raise stain likelihood.
• Water and environment: If your tap water has high mineral content (iron, magnesium) or your home is humid/dusty, the extra moisture or particles can worsen staining.
• Underlying health concerns: While lots of staining is benign, sudden or severe staining (especially with redness/swelling) may point to infections, blocked ducts, dental or systemic issues.
How to manage and reduce tear stains
Here are practical steps you can apply to help reduce tearing and stains:
1. Daily grooming around the eyes
o Gently wipe the area beneath the eyes with a damp, soft cloth or cotton-pad to remove residual tears before they stain and thoroughly dry afterwards. There are some products on the market you can use daily please ask.
o Keep hair trimmed around the eyes so tears don’t cling to fur.
o Ask your groomer to keep an eye on this at each visit.
2. Improve diet & hydration
o Feed a high-quality diet with minimal processing and ingredients your dog tolerates well.
o Avoid repeated exposure to common allergens (e.g., chicken, beef, dairy, wheat, soy) if you suspect sensitivity.
o Provide fresh, clean water—consider filtered or bottled water if your local tap is heavy in minerals.
o A couple of my clients have had success with a supplement from Brightworks and I’ve seen the results myself within a 6 week period. Please ask me about this.
3. Control the environment
o Keep your dog’s sleeping area clean and dry. Wash bedding regularly and vacuum to reduce dust/allergens.
o If you live in a humid place, use de-humidifiers or ensure good airflow to reduce constant moisture around the eyes.
o Choose stainless steel or ceramic bowls rather than plastic (which can harbour bacteria) and clean them often.
4. Know when to seek professional help
o If the staining suddenly appears, or you notice redness, swelling, heavy tearing, or discomfort — it’s time for a vet.
o Your vet might check for blocked ducts, eye infections, blink/eyelid abnormality, or systemic causes that need treatment.
Final thought
Tear stains are usually more of a cosmetic concern than a serious health issue — they’re mostly driven by anatomy, diet and environment.
With consistent grooming, thoughtful diet, and good environment control, you can significantly reduce the visible staining and help your dog feel more comfortable and look their best.
