Eye Staining
Some breeds of dogs tear more than others. Dogs with white coats being the most noticeable. This staining sometimes will get better after one year of age. Many things cause this problem. Teething, foods with dyes, and grooming negligence. It can also be hereditary. This is sometimes referred to as “poodle eye” although it is definitely not breed specific. Debris collected underneath the eye mixes with the tears and results in the brown staining. Pulling long hair up and away from the eyes or trimming long hair from between the eyes is a great way to keep the area clean and prevent further irritation of the tear duct. To clean the area you should use a warm washcloth and wipe the eyes gently. If left unattended the excess tearing can cause bacteria to grow and an infection can result. There are many home remedies and products on the market to lighten or whiten the area. Opinions vary on whether these are effective. No matter what methods you try to reduce or eliminate the stains it is surely an ongoing battle for both owner and pet.