If you have a white or light-colored dog, you've probably noticed those reddish-brown streaks running down from the corners of their eyes. Dog tear stains are one of the most common cosmetic concerns among pet owners — and the good news is, they're manageable.
In this guide, we'll explain what causes tear stains, which breeds are most affected, and the most effective ways to reduce and prevent them.
What Causes Dog Tear Stains?
Tear stains are caused by a compound called porphyrin — a naturally occurring molecule found in dog tears, saliva, and urine. When tears overflow and sit on the fur, the porphyrins oxidize and turn that familiar reddish-brown color.
Common causes of excessive tearing include:
- Genetics and breed anatomy (shallow eye sockets, prominent eyes)
- Blocked or narrow tear ducts
- Allergies (food or environmental)
- Eye irritation or infection
- Teething in puppies
- Poor diet or water quality
Which Dog Breeds Are Most Affected?
Tear stains are most common in small, light-colored breeds with prominent eyes, including:
- Maltese
- Pomeranians
- Bichon Frisés
- Poodles and Doodles
- Shih Tzus
- Havanese
- Coton de Tulears
- Japanese Spitz
- American Eskimo Dogs
- West Highland White Terriers (Westies)
- Miniature Schnauzers
How to Get Rid of Dog Tear Stains
1. Daily Cleaning
Gently wipe the area around your dog's eyes daily with a soft, damp cloth or pet-safe eye wipe. This removes fresh tears before they oxidize and stain the fur.
2. Daily Supplements
One of the most effective long-term approaches is a daily oral supplement that works from the inside out. Show Me Plus™ Eye Vita is a liquid supplement formulated to help reduce the appearance of tear stains by supporting eye health at the source. Simply add the recommended number of pumps to your dog's food daily based on their weight.
3. Check Their Diet and Water
High-iron water and certain food ingredients can worsen tear staining. Try switching to filtered water and a high-quality diet to see if it makes a difference.
4. Keep the Eye Area Dry and Trimmed
Moisture is what allows porphyrins to stain. Keep the fur around your dog's eyes trimmed short and dry to minimize staining.
5. Rule Out Medical Causes
If your dog's tearing is sudden or excessive, consult your vet to rule out eye infections, allergies, or blocked tear ducts.
Real Results: A Pomeranian's Transformation
The photo on the left shows a white Pomeranian with visible reddish-brown tear staining around the eyes. The photo on the right shows the same dog after consistent daily use of Show Me Plus™ Eye Vita. The difference speaks for itself.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
With consistent daily care — cleaning, supplements, and diet adjustments — most dog owners start to see improvement within 2–8 weeks. Patience and consistency are key.
The Bottom Line
Dog tear stains are common, especially in small white breeds, but they don't have to be permanent. A combination of daily cleaning and a quality supplement like Show Me Plus™ Eye Vita can make a visible difference over time.
Ready to get started? Shop Show Me Plus™ Eye Vita →