We all strive to look our best. There are cosmetic remedies and prescription medicines for dark circles and puffy eyes. The same is true for dogs that have reddish-brown stains under their eyes.

There are many reasons why a dog has tear stains. It is trial and error to figure out which is causing the problem in your dog. Every dog has a different chemical makeup and lives in a different environment; therefore the eye stain culprit can vary from dog to dog.

Genetics play a role in whether a dog is subject to tear staining. Not all Maltese and Bichons have tear stains. Some are just born looking good.

The mineral level in water is also a documented cause of tear stains. Many dog owners put filtered water or commercially bottled water in their dog’s water bowl. If this doesn’t eliminate enough minerals for your dog try distilled water.

The overall health of your dog is a key factor in controlling tear stains. An ear infection, clogged tear ducts or eye lashes that keep getting in the corner of your dog’s eye can cause excessive tearing. Having a Veterinarian examine your pet will determine if tearing is a symptom of an underlying medical condition.

Fleas irritate the eyes and make them tear. This is how they create the wet face habitat they thrive in. Fleas feed on a dog’s blood which causes their feces to be a reddish brown color. The same color as tear stains.

Pet owners have been known to treat eye stains at home. Adding a teaspoon of white cider vinegar to your dog’s water bowl or giving your dog TUMS are some common homemade remedies. Another popular solution is equal parts milk of magnesia, corn starch and hydrogen peroxide made into a paste and applied to the stained area. Before a portrait, dog owners and handlers have been known to whiten up a coat by rubbing corn starch into the coat.

Check with your Veterinarian to be sure the method you choose is safe for your dog. The eye area is very sensitive and extra caution is necessary to keep your pet beautiful and healthy!

There are several causes why a dog has tear stains. It is tricky to figure out which is causing the problem in your dog. Joanne Gallagher is an expert in caring for your dog and suggests visiting Jake’s Dog House for different solutions for tear stain removal.