Tear stains in dogs can be unsightly and a source of embarrassment for pet parents. These dark, discolored marks often appear under a dog’s eyes and can be caused by a variety of factors, including diet.
In this article, we will take a closer look at what food ingredients cause tear stains in dogs, as well as additional causes of tear stains and the best dog food options to prevent them. We’ll also provide tips on how to remove tear stains from your dog’s eyes and answer some common questions about this issue.
What Food Ingredients Cause Tear Stains
There are a few key ingredients in dog food that can contribute to tear stains. One of the most common culprits is grain. Many commercial dog foods contain grains like corn, wheat, and barley, which can be difficult for dogs to digest.
When a dog’s digestive system is not functioning properly, waste products can build up in the body and lead to excessive tear production. This, in turn, can result in tear stains.
Another ingredient that can cause tear stains is artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. These chemicals can be hard on a dog’s body and can lead to allergic reactions, which can cause tears to become discolored.
Food allergies and sensitivities can also contribute to tear stains. If your dog is sensitive to certain ingredients in their food, it can cause an overproduction of tears and lead to staining.
Additional Causes of Tear Stains
While diet is a primary cause of tear stains, there are other factors that can contribute to this issue. Excessive tearing can also be caused by shallow eye sockets, which are more common in smaller dogs.
Some dogs may be predisposed to tear stains due to their breed or genetics. Other causes of tear stains can include yeast infections, eye infections, and even certain health issues like dry eye.
Best Dog Food to Prevent Tear Stains
When it comes to preventing tear stains, the best dog food options are those that contain natural ingredients and are free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. This is why we recommend a fresh raw dog food diet. You can learn more about it here: Is Fresh Food Better for Dogs?
Grain-free dog food is also a great choice as it is easier to digest and less likely to cause waste buildup in the body. Some good options for grain-free dog food include brands like Blue Buffalo and Taste of the Wild.
Another option to consider is a limited-ingredient diet, which contains a smaller number of ingredients and is designed to be easy on a dog’s digestive system. This can be especially helpful for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food allergies.
Foods that contain fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, can help keep your dog’s skin healthy and reduce the likelihood of tear stains.
How to Remove Tear Stains from Dogs’ Eyes
If your dog already has tear stains, there are a few things you can do to remove them. One option is to use a mild, pet-safe tear stain remover. These products can be found at most pet stores and work by breaking down the discolored pigments in the tears. Another option is to use a damp cloth or cotton ball to gently wipe away the stains. You can also try using a mixture of water and apple cider vinegar to clean the area around your dog’s eyes.
Question About What Food Ingredients
[saswp_tiny_multiple_faq headline-0=”h3″ question-0=”Cause Tear Stains Can grain in dog food cause tear stains?” answer-0=”Yes, grains like corn, wheat, and barley found in many commercial dog foods can be difficult for dogs to digest. This can lead to waste buildup in the body and result in excessive tear production, which can cause tear stains. ” image-0=”” count=”1″ html=”true”]
[saswp_tiny_multiple_faq headline-0=”h3″ question-0=”Why has my dog started getting tear stains?” answer-0=”There could be a number of reasons why your dog has started getting tear stains. It could be due to a change in diet, the presence of food allergies or sensitivities, or an underlying health issue. Additionally, some dogs may be predisposed to tear stains due to their breed or genetics. If you’re unsure of the cause, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying issues.” image-0=”” count=”1″ html=”true”]
[saswp_tiny_multiple_faq headline-0=”h3″ question-0=”Does tap water cause tear stains in dogs?” answer-0=”While tap water itself may not cause tear stains, it can contain minerals and chlorine that can be harsh on a dog’s eyes. This can lead to dryness and irritation, which can cause excessive tearing and result in tear stains. To prevent this, it’s best to give your dog filtered or distilled water to drink. ” image-0=”” count=”1″ html=”true”]
Overview of What Food Ingredients Cause Tear Stains
Overall, tear stains in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors including diet, genetics, and underlying health issues. Pet owners can take steps to prevent tear stains by choosing the best dog food options that contain natural ingredients, are grain-free, and are free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors.
It is important to address any underlying issues that may be causing excessive tearing and keep an eye on your dog’s overall health. If you notice any persistent tear stains on your dog’s eyes, it is recommended to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying issues.
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