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Every day, we celebrate our shared love of dogs and hopefully brighten your day. Enjoy!

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Dog of the Day: Lego!

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Meme of the day: Best defense!

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Understanding and Caring for Your Dog’s Tear Stains

That gentle gaze, those soulful eyes – our dogs communicate so much without saying a word. But sometimes, you might notice little reddish-brown trails beneath those expressive peepers. These are tear stains, and while they might not always be a sign of a serious problem, understanding why they appear can help you keep your furry friend looking and feeling their best.

Think of tear stains as little love notes from your dog’s body, telling a story about their unique physiology. They’re a natural occurrence for many dogs, and while some breeds are more prone to them than others, it’s a topic most pet parents will encounter at some point.

The Science Behind the Stains:

The culprit behind those tell-tale marks isn’t actually the tears themselves but rather the natural pigments found within them. Tears contain porphyrins, iron-containing molecules also present in red blood cells. When exposed to air, these porphyrins oxidize and leave behind that reddish-brown or rust-colored stain.  

Think of it like a tiny, constant watercolor painting happening beneath your dog’s eyes. The amount of porphyrins a dog produces varies, so some dogs have more prominent staining than others.  

Why the Extra Waterworks? Common Causes of Tear Stains:

While the staining itself is a result of those pigments, the reason for excessive tearing can vary. Here are some of the most common culprits:  

• Breed Predisposition: Certain breeds, particularly those with shallow eye sockets, long facial hair around the eyes (like Shih Tzus, Maltese, and Poodles), and those with prominent noses, tend to have more tear staining. This is often due to natural tear drainage issues.

• Blocked Tear Ducts: Just like humans, dogs have tear ducts that drain tears away from the eyes and into the nasal cavity. Tears can overflow onto the face if these ducts become blocked or narrowed, leading to staining. Allergies, infections, or even just the shape of their facial structure can contribute to this.  

• Allergies: Environmental allergies (pollen, dust mites), food sensitivities, or even contact allergies can cause eye irritation and increased tear production.  

• Eye Irritation: Anything that irritates the eye can lead to more tearing. This could include ingrown eyelashes (entropion), foreign bodies (like a stray piece of grass), or even smoke and dust.  

• Diet: While not always the primary cause, some believe that certain ingredients in dog food can contribute to increased tear production in susceptible dogs.  

• Dental Issues: Surprisingly, dental problems can sometimes be linked to tear staining. Inflammation or infection in the mouth can affect the tear ducts.  

• Infections: Bacterial or yeast infections can also cause increased tearing and contribute to staining.  

What You Can Do to Help:

While tear stains are often cosmetic, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions, especially if the staining appears suddenly or is accompanied by other symptoms like redness, swelling, or discharge.

Once you’ve addressed any potential health concerns, here are some gentle ways to manage and minimize tear stains:

• Regular Cleaning: Gently wiping the area around your dog’s eyes daily with a warm, damp cloth can help remove fresh tears before they have a chance to stain.  

• Trimming Facial Hair: For breeds with long facial hair, trimming the hair around their eyes can prevent it from irritating the eyes and trapping moisture.  

• Consider a Balanced Diet: Feeding a high-quality diet may help reduce inflammation and potential sensitivities. Discuss dietary changes with your vet.  

• Keep the Eye Area Dry: After cleaning, ensure the area around your dog’s eyes is thoroughly dry.

• Specialized Tear Stain Removers: There are many over-the-counter tear stain removers available. Choose a reputable brand and follow the instructions carefully. Avoid products containing harsh chemicals that could irritate your dog’s eyes.  

• Water Quality: Some believe using filtered water can help reduce mineral content that might contribute to staining.  

A Sign of Love, Not Neglect:

Ultimately, those little tear stains are often just a part of what makes your dog unique. While you’ll naturally want to keep your furry friend looking their best, remember that these marks are often a result of their individual physiology. By understanding the potential causes and practicing good hygiene, you can help minimize their appearance and ensure your beloved companion is happy, healthy, and showering you with those heartwarming gazes for years to come. They are, after all, a testament to the constant love and connection you share.

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Family Photo of the Day: Paughco!

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Sources:

Dog of the day: IG beaglelego

Meme of the day: IG littlesophiekisses