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However fastidious your dog might be when it comes to grooming, there’s always one persistent problem—black or brown streaks near their eyes. Often referred to as tear stains, this crusty goop can provoke bouts of cotton ball scrubbing on the part of owners or concern it might be something that needs veterinary attention.
Why do these tear stains form and what can you do about them?
In dogs, these stains are typically the result of porphyrin, molecules that a dog produces when breaking down iron. Porphyrins are excreted via a dog’s gastrointestinal tract, urine, saliva, and through their tears. The porphyrins in tears will discolor the fur surrounding their eyes, leaving brown or black streaks that are especially noticeable on dogs who have light-colored fur. Certain breeds can also be predisposed, like the Maltese, Shih Tzu, or Poodle.
The best first step is to make sure the stains aren’t caused by an infection, ingrown eyelash, or other medical issue. Have the dog evaluated by a veterinarian. Once the stains are confirmed to be cosmetic in nature, you can tackle them.
Continued below.
The Reason Why Dogs Have Tear Stains
Why do these tear stains form and what can you do about them?
In dogs, these stains are typically the result of porphyrin, molecules that a dog produces when breaking down iron. Porphyrins are excreted via a dog’s gastrointestinal tract, urine, saliva, and through their tears. The porphyrins in tears will discolor the fur surrounding their eyes, leaving brown or black streaks that are especially noticeable on dogs who have light-colored fur. Certain breeds can also be predisposed, like the Maltese, Shih Tzu, or Poodle.
The best first step is to make sure the stains aren’t caused by an infection, ingrown eyelash, or other medical issue. Have the dog evaluated by a veterinarian. Once the stains are confirmed to be cosmetic in nature, you can tackle them.
Continued below.
The Reason Why Dogs Have Tear Stains
