If you ask many dog owners, dog tear stain remover is never in their budget for pet products. But come to think of it, do you like how your light-coated furry friend looks with rust-colored tear stains under his eyes? A good cleaning and removing these unsightly stains will make your dog look better to you and other people.
The tear stains are mostly a problem for light-colored dogs. I have two chihuahuas and they both have tear staind. However, one of them develops them much faster than the other. Same age, both male.
Many commercial pet products are designed to remove stains from dogs. But did you know that some natural ingredients can do the same job? Well, there are plenty of them in the market, and you have to find one that suits your pup.
The best dog tear stain remover should provide the following:
- It should be safe and effective
- Not harmful to your dog’s skin
- Easy to use on dark tear stains, without messy application
- Should promote good hygiene
- Able to penetrate deep down your dog’s fur to eliminate stains completely
In this article, I outline the best tear stain removers with the above features to care about your dog’s health and want to maintain good hygiene practices on your furry friend. We also have a comprehensive buyers’ guide to help you choose the best tear stain remover for your pup. But if you’ve already identified the best dog tear stain remover, then just go directly to this link.
- Angels’ Eyes Gentle Tear Stain Wipes – Best Overall
- Burt’s Bees Tear Stain Remover – Best Value
- Eye Envy Stain Remover – Premium Quality Option
- Nutri-Vet Eye Rinse for Dogs – Best Anti- Stain Cleaner
- Arava Pet Eye Wipes – Best Skin Conditioner
- PUPMATE Tear Stain Remover Wipes for Dogs & Cats – Unscented Option
- Great Eyes Tear Stain Wipes – Best Anti-Inflammatory
- Cliny Universal Pet Eye Wash Cleaner for Dogs & Cat – Best for Infections
- Always Bright Eyes Tear Stain Remover for Dogs – Best for Bathing Dogs
- Petpost Tear Stain Remover Wipes – Best for Allergies
What is Dog Tear Stain Remover?
Like human beings, a dog tear duct system also produces tears to clean and refresh their eyes. However, it’s difficult for the tears to drain properly into the lower eyelids with most canines because of the long thick hairs growing around and under their eyes, leading to tear staining. This is why pet ophthalmologist describes dog tear stains as “yellow tears” because these stains are often noticeable when the dogs’ tears mix with the fur and dirt around their eyes.
Dogs with light-colored fur are more likely to develop dog eye tear stains because their skin shows discoloration more prominently. But even dogs with dark fur can get tear stains if they are predisposed to produce excessive tearing from the tear duct. The best dog tear stain removers should be able to remove or reduce these yellowish stains around a pet’s eyes.
Why Should You Worry About Dog Tear Stain Removal?
Aside from the fact that dogs with tear stains look less clean and presentable, there are more important reasons why you should take action. Here are some of them:
- Most dog tear stains are caused by porphyrin, a by-product of the RBC enzyme. In turn, this causes damage to the cornea if left untreated.
- If your dog’s tear stains are caused by irritation or eye infection, it’s important to take action early on so that the problem doesn’t exacerbate.
- Corneal ulcers can develop in dogs with tear stains caused by injury or allergies; it’s important to treat this at the early stages.
- Abnormal eyelashes may also disturb a dog’s eye, causing excessive tearing leading to tear staining.
This is the product we use at home right now on our two Chihuahuas.
What to Look for in Dog Tear Stain Remover
Before buying a tear stain remover for your furry friend, you should consider the following:
The Ingredients of the Product
Make sure it doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals or ingredients that can harm your dog’s skin and eyes. There are plenty of tear stain removers out there made from all-natural ingredients, making them safe for your pup. Since the product will come very close to your dog’s eyes, make sure there are no toxins that can cause problems.
Ease of Use
The dog tear stain remover should be easy to apply, without any mess. You don’t want the stain remover to end up dripping down your dog’s face or getting into the eyes. The best tear stain remover should be able to penetrate deep down your furry friend’s fur so that it can also eliminate stains on the skin.
Price
Since you aim to buy an effective yet affordable product, think about how much money you can spend on it. There are plenty of tear stain removers priced differently depending on quality and effectiveness. Look for a product that works well but doesn’t hurt your wallet too much.
PH Balance
Look for a dog tear stain remover with a pH balance compatible with your dog’s skin. This is important because if the product has a high acid or alkaline level, it can cause skin irritation and other problems.
Now you know what to look for when buying a tear stain remover. Let’s look at some of the best products on the market.
Best Dog Tear Stain Removers Reviewed
1. Angels’ Eyes Gentle Tear Stain Wipes – Best Overall
Angel Eyes gentle dog tear stain remover pre-soaked wipes that help you clean your dog’s tear stains with ease. The product is made from natural ingredients, and it’s safe to use on all types of dogs, even those with sensitive skin and white dogs.
You can use this product on puppies and adult dogs since it’s gentle enough. The wipes also work well in eliminating other dirt and bacteria around your dog’s eyes. Regular use of this tear stain remover will help reduce itching and eye irritation from tear stains.
Pros
- This tear stain remover doesn’t have the strong smell
- The product comes in a premoistened cloth, making it easy to use
- The wipes are also affordable
- It’s gentle on the skin
- Made from all-natural ingredients
- Safe for puppies and mature dogs
- Eliminates dirt and bacteria
Cons
- The wipes can be a bit small
Most buyers love this product because it doesn’t have a strong smell like many tear stain removers hence won’t irritate your pet’s eyes. The dog tear stain remover wipes are also premoistened and affordable, making them convenient for those who want an easy-to-use product.
2. Burt’s Bees Tear Stain Remover – Best Value
If you’re looking for a natural dog tear-stain stain remover, Burt’s Bees is a good choice. The product uses all-natural ingredients like lavender oil and chamomile along with Vitamin E, which makes it safe for your pet’s sensitive skin.
You only need to apply it once a day to work effectively for white dogs with stains due to excessive tear production from the tear ducts. Regular application can help reduce tear staining around your dog’s eyes and remove existing stains.
The tear stain remover also won’t leave any residue or streak marks on your dog’s hair. You don’t need to rinse it out.
Pros
- The product is made with all-natural ingredients
- It’s safe to use on sensitive skin
- Leaves no residue or streaks of reddish-brown stains
- Eliminates dog eye stains and dirt effectively
Cons
- Some buyers find the product ineffective, especially on dogs with bright coats
Burt’s Bees tear stain remover is a good choice for those looking for an all-natural product to remove their dog’s tear stains. The ingredients used in the product are gentle and safe for sensitive skin, plus it leaves no residue or streaks after use.
Eye Envy is an all-in-one product that offers a solution for dog tear stains, saliva from the dog’s mouth, and urine stains. The product works well in cleaning tear stains, and the best part is that it’s gentle on your dog’s eyes.
You’ll love this dog tear stain remover because it works great in darkening the hairs around your dog’s eyes, which helps reduce tear staining and prevent future stains. You can also use it on other pets such as cats and horses.
The product comes with a brush for easy application, and you only need to use it once a day.
Pros
- It gets rid of tear stains that are tough
- Gentle on the eyes
- Works excellent in darkening fur around the eyes
- It can be used on other pets
- Has a brush for easy application
Cons
- Some buyers find the product ineffective
Eye Envy is a great product for removing tough stains, especially around your dog’s eyes. It’s gentle on the eyes and comes with a brush for easy application. You only need to use it once a day for the best results.
4. Nutri-Vet Eye Rinse for Dogs – Best Anti- Stain Cleaner
Nutri-Vet not only removes dog tear stains for your furry friends but also cleans dirt and mud around the face. It also freshens your pet’s breath due to the addition of peppermint oil which is excellent if you don’t like using products with a strong chemical smell.
The dog eye tear stain remover doesn’t irritate your dog’s eyes. It also contains an enzymatic cleaner that helps break down stains naturally. Regular use of the tear stain remover can also help reduce darkening around your dog’s eyes.
In addition, it contains Calendula extract, which is a natural anti-inflammatory that helps reduce swelling and irritation from tear stains. Nutri-Vet eye rinse for dogs has a pH balance of 6.5, the normal pH level in your pet’s eyes, so that it won’t irritate them.
Pros
- Removes dog tear stains and dirt around
- Reduces darkening around the eyes with regular use
- It contains anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling and irritation around your pet’s eyes
- pH balance of 6.5, which is gentle on your pet’s eyes
Cons
- Some buyers find the product ineffective
Nutri-Vet eye rinse for dogs is a great tear stain remover that not only removes stains but also cleans dirt and mud around your pet’s face. It also freshens their breath with the addition of peppermint oil. Plus, it has an enzymatic cleaner that helps break down stains naturally.
5. Arava Pet Eye Wipes – Best Skin Conditioner
Arava pet eye wipes works for dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens. You don’t need different products for your various pets as this stain remover works for all of them.
One great thing about this dog tear stain remover is it comes with a small applicator. You can use it to easily apply the wipes to your pet’s eyes and body. The wipes also contain aloe vera, cucumber extract, and chamomile extracts, which condition your dog’s skin and clean dog tear stains.
The wipes are also pH balanced and won’t cause any irritation to your pet’s eyes.
Pros
- Gets rid of tear stains and dirt around the dog’s face
- Reduces darkening around the eyes with regular use
- It contains anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling and irritation around your pet’s eyes
- pH balance of 6.5, which is gentle on your pet’s eyes
- It comes with a small applicator for easy application
Cons
- Scented product is not suitable for some pets
Arava Pet Eye Wipes is another great tear stain remover that not only removes stains but also cleans dirt and mud around your pet’s face. It refreshes their breath as well due to the addition of peppermint oil.
6. PUPMATE Tear Stain Remover Wipes for Dogs & Cats – Unscented Option
If you’re looking for an unscented all-natural tear stain remover, PupMate is a great option for you and your pet.
This product comes with 100% organic aloe vera that moisturizes your dog’s skin and helps remove dog tear stains and dirt around their face. You can also apply it on rashes such as flea bites and mites. Make sure you also check out natural dog flea remedies.
The tear remover is made with organic materials, so it’s safe and gentle on your pet’s eyes. It contains no alcohol, parabens, or other harsh chemicals that irritate their eyes. PupMate is also water-resistant, which means you can use it after bathing to prevent tear stains from setting in as well as keep your pet’s skin moisturized.
Pros
- Removes dog tear stains and dirt around
- Reduces darkening around the eyes with regular use
- It contains anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling and irritation around your pet’s eyes
- pH balance of 6.5, which is gentle on your pet’s eyes
- It can be used after bathing to prevent tear stains from setting in
- The organic and all-natural material
Cons
- The product can dry out if kept for long
PupMate Tear Stain Remover Wipes for Dogs & Cats is an unscented and organic tear stain remover that’s safe and gentle on your pet’s eyes. It also works as a water-resistant moisturizer, which keeps your pet’s skin fresh even after bathing them.
7. Great Eyes Tear Stain Wipes – Best Anti-Inflammatory
Great Eyes tear stain wipes are a great product that will keep your pet’s eyes clean and fresh. The wipes are moist and contain chamomile extracts, aloe vera, vitamin E, and other anti-inflammatory ingredients. These ingredients fight against bacteria to reduce swelling and irritation around your pet’s eyes.
This dog tear stain remover also has a unique tear stain removal formula that improves skin circulation to keep the eyelid healthy while removing stains naturally.
Pros
- A unique tear stain removal formula that improves the skin circulation
- Keeps the eye skin healthy while cleaning tear stains naturally
- It contains chamomile extracts, aloe vera, vitamin E, and anti-inflammatory ingredients
- Reduces swelling and irritation around your pet’s eyes
- Moist wipes are gentle on your pet’s eyes
Cons
- The wipes can be a little dry
Great Eyes Tear Stain Wipes are moist and gentle on your pet’s eyes. They contain chamomile extracts, aloe vera, vitamin E, and other anti-inflammatory ingredients that help reduce swelling and irritation around your pet’s eyes.
8. Cliny Universal Pet Eye Wash Cleaner for Dogs & Cat – Best for Infections
This is a gentle eye cleaner that you can comfortably use around your pet’s eyes. The pet stains remover also helps clear infections from your dog’s eyes. It’s effective against bacterial infections, allergies, and other eye problems.
The product also has anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling around your pet’s eyes. You can use it regularly to keep them healthy with a clean face. It also softens the skin and heals wounds.
Pros
- Gentle eye cleaner that’s effective against bacterial infections, allergies, and other eye problems
- Has anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling around your pet’s eyes
- It can be used regularly to keep them healthy with a clean face
- Softens the skin and heals wounds
- Gentle on your pet’s eyes
- It helps clear infections from your dog’s eyes
Cons
- The product can be a little strong for sensitive eyes.
Cliny Universal Pet Eye Wash Cleaner is a gentle eye cleaner effective against bacterial infections, allergies, and other eye problems. The anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling around your pet’s eyes while softening the skin and healing wounds.
9. Always Bright Eyes Tear Stain Remover for Dogs – Best for Bathing Dogs
The Always Bright Eyes Tear Stain Remover for dogs is another product from Petmate. It contains no harmful chemicals and is gentle on your pet’s eyes to prevent irritation. This tear stain remover also acts as a moisturizer. You can use it every day after bathing your dog to keep their skin clean and fresh without irritating their eyes.
The dog tear stain remover comes in a handy travel size that you can take with you when you’re on the go. The kit comes complete with a 2-ounce bottle of tear stain remover, a microfiber cloth, and an instructional booklet.
Pros
- No harsh chemicals
- It comes in a handy travel size
- Gentle on your pet’s eyes
- It prevents irritation and also acts as a moisturizer
- It comes in a handy travel size
Cons
- Needs daily application to be effective
Always Bright Eyes Tear Stain Remover for dogs is a tear stain remover that’s gentle on your pet’s eyes and contains no harsh chemicals. It acts as a moisturizer to keep their skin clean and fresh without irritating their eyes.
10. Petpost Tear Stain Remover Wipes – Best for Allergies
If you want your dog consistently to look beautiful and happy, you need to ensure that its eyes are always clean. Try Petpost Tear Stain Remover Wipes for that.
Petpost offers 400 wipes, soft facial tissues made especially for the delicate eye area of pets. These special wipes are very gentle on your pet’s eyes, removing all kinds of stains and dirt without causing any irritation or discomfort. All you have to do is gently pat them on the affected area.
The dog tear stain remover wipes are also effective against allergies and help keep the area around your pet’s eyes clean and healthy.
Pros
- 400 wipes included
- Very gentle on your pet’s eyes as long as you also gently wipe with the remover
- Removes all kinds of stains and dirt
- Effective against allergies
- Keeps the area around your pet’s eyes clean and healthy
Cons
- The wipes can cause some irritation to your pet’s eyes
Petpost is a special wipe that you can use every day to keep your dog or cat’s eyes clean and beautiful. It contains no harsh chemicals and is very gentle on your pet’s eyes, removing all kinds of stains and dirt without causing any irritation or discomfort.
How do I get rid of my dog’s tear stains?
Tear stains are very common in dogs, especially those with lighter coats. They’re often not dangerous and can be treated using the suggestions mentioned above. There are also several over-the-counter products you can use to remove tear stains from your pet’s face without causing any harm to their eyes or skin.
What is the best tear Stain Remover for dogs?
There’s no single answer to this question as different dogs respond differently to various products. The best tear stain remover is one that is gentle on your pet’s eyes, contains no harsh chemicals, and is effective against all kinds of stains. You should also consider the type of coat your dog has when choosing a tear stain remover, as some products work better on certain hair types.
Are tear stain removers safe for dogs?
Most tear stain removers are safe for dogs as long as they are used as directed. However, always consult veterinarian before using any new product on your pet. Make sure it is safe and will not cause any irritation.
What do groomers use for tear stains?
At the groomer, they will use a specially formulated shampoo to remove tear stains from your dog’s mouth and face. This is a good option if your dog has sensitive skin, as it will not irritate the scalp or eyes. You can also ask your pet groomer for a list of suitable over-the-counter cleaners.
Are tear stains permanent?
Depending on the cause of the stain, a tear stain may be permanent. However, several DIY dog tear stain remover remedies and cleaning products are available for pet owners to remove most of the stains from their animal’s faces. With patience and diligence, you should be able to eliminate tear stains from your dog or cat’s eyes in just a few weeks.
Does apple cider vinegar help dogs tear stains?
Yes, organic apple cider vinegar is a good option for removing tear stains from your pet’s fur. However, you should never use its full strength as it can burn and irritate the skin around their eyes and damage their fur.
What home remedy can I use to clean my dog’s tear stains?
There are many recipes for a natural tear stain remover home remedy. They all use safe ingredients for your dog’s eyes, such as hydrogen peroxide, warm water, and lemon juice. However, using any new product on your pet after consulting with a vet is always recommended to ensure it’s safe.
What is the best tear stain remover for Maltese?
Maltese dogs are particularly prone to tear stains, so finding a good product that eliminates them is essential. The best dog tear stain remover for Maltese dogs is one that is gentle on their eyes, effective against all kinds of stains, and safe for daily use.
Pet parents should also consider the type of coat your Maltese has when choosing a cleaning product, as some may be more effective on certain hair types.
Summary
Dog tear stain removers are a must-have for every dog owner, whether you have light-colored dogs or those with dull fur. The stains can be embarrassing and unsightly, but they are not dangerous. There are several over-the-counter products that you can use to remove the stains without causing any harm to your pet’s eyes or skin.
If you have sensitive skin, using a groomer’s tear stain shampoo is a good option. You can also ask your groomer or veterinary for a list of suitable cleaners. A few weeks of patience and diligence should be enough to remove the stains from your pet’s eyes.