Tear stains—two words that are all too familiar—and all too annoying—for us humans whose pooches have to endure these unsightly and uncomfortable reddish, brown streaks.

While these rusty stains may not warrant an emergency trip to the vet, it helps to know how to remove tears stains and keep them away—without using anything that may harm or compromise your dog’s health. 

The Signs and Causes of Tear Stains

Tear stains are caused by the overproduction of tears in your pup’s eyes and failure to drain it down the proper way, called epiphora. Some of the reasons behind this may include:

• Congenital defects in or total absence of the puncta (the tiny holes in the corner of the eyes. They serve as primary drainage pathways leading to the nasolacrimal duct system)
• Allergic reactions to food, grooming products, pollen, dust, smoke, or other allergens
• Irritation of the eyes caused by foreign objects
• Eyelids and / or eyelashes growing inwards instead of out
• Injury or scarring along the tear drainage system
• Teething for puppies (though epiphora should lessen after this period)
• Fungal or bacterial infection
• Overactive tear glands

Dogs with flatter facial structures, or deep set eyes often get the short end of the stick when it comes to epiphora—Pugs, Maltese, Bichon Frise, Shih Tzus, Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, and the like are more than likely to experience tear stains on their beautiful faces at one point of their lives.

For some dogs, they will have tear stains for most of their lives if left untreated. 

So what makes the tear stains red?

Tears contain substances similar to dye called porphyrins, just like saliva and urine. Porphyrin is iron-rich, and once exposed to air and sunlight, rusty, brownish staining occurs.

The longer the tears remain stagnant in the coat, the more it darkens and discolors the fur.

Some of these causes may require more up close veterinary intervention and observation, and with the case of the obstruction of the puncta, surgery may be needed to remove the scar tissue or widen the opening of the holes to permit easier drainage of the tears. This is not recommended in most cases.

But once you’ve confirmed with your favorite doc that Fido’s epiphora is due to more manageable circumstances such as seasonal or dietary sensitivities, the occasional teary eyes because of too much fun in the pool, or that incident in the park sand box, there's a few things you can do.

There are a few effective and safe ways to get rid of those ugly red marks on your beloved buddy’s face easily at home.

Choosing the Right Grooming Tools

Simply wanting to know how to remove tear stains the natural and safe way puts you on the right track.

We know that you don't want to put harsh chemicals, bleach, and other synthetic ingredients near Buster's eyes—you want to stop his tears, not start yours.

Sadly, a lot of tear stain remover supplements contain antibiotics—yes, antibiotics—that are dangerous for your dog.

Not only does long term antibiotic use pose a risk in causing damage in your dog’s liver, but Bruno may also develop antibiotic resistance. This will not bode well once he falls sick and actually needs these antibiotics to cure him. 

Fortunately, there are natural tear stain removers that you can still conveniently use for your pooch.

There's only a few products on the market that contain the magic ingredient in their formula. 

The magic ingredient? Coconut Oil. 

How to Remove Tear Stains

How do you develop your own home-based tear stain removing regimen? This is the routine that professional groomers recommend to do daily or weekly if you want to say goodbye to tear stains forever.

5. Choose a comfy spot for Spot. While most well-socialized dogs tolerate face grooming, it can be a challenge for some, especially if their eyes are irritated. Cuddle for a minute or two with Scruffy—maybe add a treat or two in the mix, and you’ll get him—and yourself—in the zone in no time.
6. Use a high quality tear stain remover or wipes to clear off the gunk. Never use any wet wipes containing alcohol or bleach. Wipe firmly around your dogs snout and face for 60-120 seconds. You may see some "spreading" of the stains after you wipe, but consistent cleaning will lessen and remove the stains completely. 
7. Snip away. Preferably using blunt-tipped scissors, of course. Trim away any matted, clumped fur and any fur that is permanently dyed and has not been removed after a month of cleaning sessions. 

You've Done the Basics, But Still Have Tear Stains?

Some dog owners have done the regular grooming methods, but still are seeing new tear stains form on their white dog.

We've put together an easy to use checklist of EVERYTHING you should do if your dog has very stubborn tear stains:

1. Tear Stain Wipes + Tear Stain Comb. When you notice your dog with new eye boogers, you should promptly clean those up to prevent permanent staining. Leave some tear stain wipes and a comb in the car or in the kitchen. 
2. Purified Drinking Water. Making sure your dog has the highest quality drinking water can help prevent new stains from forming
3. High Quality Food. Never underestimate the power of a healthy diet in keeping your dog looking and feeling their best!
4. Get a better bowl. Stainless steel, glass, or porcelain food and water bowls can reduce the amount of toxins that your dog can consume. Plastic containers can harbor bacteria that may irritate your pup.
5. Tear Stain Soft Chews. You're going to want to give your dog a supplement to provide the nutrients needed to prevent new tear stains from forming. Most dog food doesn't contain any lutein, eyebright herb, or cranberry. Try this Tear Stain Supplement to add the most powerful blend of herbs made specifically for tear stains to your dog's diet. 

Consistency is Key

Staying committed to keeping your dog tear stain-free will require your dedication to the grooming regimen.

No product can get rid of tear stains in one go (though you’ll be surprised at how many of them promise to do so).

Good things come to those who wait, and stain-free puppy eyes come to those who clean it regularly.

Why let those unsightly tear stains linger another day? There is a fast, effective solution at your fingertips! Here’s why the Petpost Tear Stain Wipes are the best thing to get if you need to remove tear stains:

• Fast, Visible Results: Our wipes are supercharged with a powerful cleanser to tackle even the most stubborn tear stains, making a noticeable difference after just a few uses.
• Convenient & Mess-Free: No messy solutions or complicated treatments. Just pull out a wipe, swipe it across your dog's face, and you're done!
• Vet-Approved & Groomer-Trusted: Thousands of professionals recommend Petpost Tear Stain Wipes for their proven ability to remove and prevent tear stains.
• Human Grade Ingredients: Packed with safe, natural ingredients like coconut oil and juniper berry extract, these wipes clean without harmful chemicals.

You don’t want to wait until the stains get worse. Take control now and give your dog the clean, beautiful face they deserve! Click here to order your Petpost Tear Stain Wipes today, and watch those ugly stains disappear—for good!

Have you had a run in with stubborn tears stains? Tell us how you keep your fur baby clear-faced and tear-free in the comments below!