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Say Goodbye to Tear Stains: The Best Solutions for Rust-Colored Marks Around Your Dog’s Eyes
If you’ve noticed rust-colored tear stains around your dog’s eyes, you’re not alone. These stains are common, especially in certain breeds or coat colors, and while they’re usually harmless, they can be unsightly. The good news? There are tear stain removers that can help reduce or eliminate the staining for a cleaner, brighter look.
Why Do Dogs Get Tear Stains?
Some dogs are simply more prone to tear stains due to their facial structure, coat type, or even underlying health issues. Breeds with flat faces or short snouts—like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus—often experience excessive tearing because of shallow eye sockets or extra skin folds. Allergies, infections, or blocked tear ducts can also contribute to increased tear production and staining.
“The color of a dog’s coat makes a big difference too,” explains Dr. Alejandro Caos, veterinarian at Silver Bluff Animal Clinic in Miami, FL. “Lighter-colored dogs tend to show staining more clearly. And dogs with longer or thicker fur around the eyes are more likely to develop buildup that leads to noticeable discoloration.”
First Step: Rule Out Medical Issues
Before reaching for a tear stain remover, it’s important to consult with your vet to make sure there’s no underlying medical problem. Once your pup gets a clean bill of health, you’re ready to try one of the many highly-rated tear stain solutions available.
Our Top Tear Stain Removers for Dogs
Best Overall:
Angels’ Eyes Gentle Tear Stain Wipes – Was $16, Now $11 at Amazon
These textured wipes are infused with soothing aloe vera and chamomile, making them gentle enough for daily use.
Best Eye Wash:
Burt’s Bees Natural Eye Wash with Saline Solution – $19 at Amazon
A natural, vet-approved way to gently cleanse the eye area.
Best Paste:
Squishface Wrinkle Paste – $20 at Amazon
Perfect for dogs with facial folds—this paste helps repel moisture and bacteria that cause stains.
Best Soft Chew:
Zesty Paws Tear Stain Bites – $33 at Amazon
These tasty chews support immune health and reduce tear staining from the inside out.
Best Supplement:
Purina Pro Plan Fortiflora Probiotic Supplement – $31 at Amazon
Promotes gut health, which can have a direct impact on eye discharge and tear staining.
Best Comb:
Petpost Tear Stain Remover Comb – $10 at Amazon
A simple but effective grooming tool to help remove buildup and prevent new stains.
Best Chews:
Angels’ Eyes Natural Plus Chicken-Flavored Soft Chews – $42 at Amazon
A popular dietary supplement designed to target tear stains with natural ingredients.
Best Gel:
Professional Pet Products Tear Stain Remover Gel – $8 at Chewy
Affordable and easy to apply, this gel is ideal for spot treatments.
Best Overall
Angels’ Eyes Gentle Tear Stain Wipes
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Love:
- Generously soaked in cleansing solution
- Lightly textured for effective wiping
- No rinsing required after use
- Soothing ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile
What Could Be Better:
- Wipes may be too small for large-breed dogs
If you’re looking for a simple way to clean up your dog’s tear stains, Angels’ Eyes Gentle Tear Stain Wipes are a super convenient option. These disposable wipes are pre-moistened and lightly textured to help lift away dried discharge, mucus, and gunk from around your pet’s eyes—no rinsing needed. Just be sure to use a fresh wipe for each eye to keep things clean and safe.
Formulated specifically for tear stain care, these unscented wipes are made mostly of purified water but also include calming aloe vera and chamomile extract—perfect for dogs with sensitive skin. They’re thoroughly saturated with solution, so they don’t dry out quickly while in use.
At just under 3 inches in diameter, the wipes are ideally sized for small dogs or cats, but larger breeds may require more than one per cleaning session.
You can use them daily or as needed. For best results, consider pairing the wipes with a warm, damp cloth between uses. Always wipe gently from the inner eye corner outward to avoid spreading bacteria.
Product Details:
- Quantity: 100 wipes
- Key Ingredients: Purified water, glycerin, decyl polyglucoside, propylene glycol, phenoxyethanol, dimethyl isosorbide, aloe vera, disodium EDTA, benzalkonium chloride, chamomile extract
Best Eye Wash
Burt’s Bees Natural Eye Wash with Saline Solution
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Love:
- Safe for both puppies (8+ weeks) and adult dogs
- Made with minimal, natural ingredients including saline
- Free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, artificial dyes, and fragrances
- pH-balanced to match your dog’s natural eye chemistry
What Could Be Improved:
- The bottle design may be a bit awkward to handle
If you’re looking for a natural way to keep your dog’s eyes clean and irritation-free, Burt’s Bees Natural Eye Wash is a gentle and trustworthy option. Designed for puppies and adult dogs alike, this saline-based formula mimics natural tears, helping to flush out debris and soothe the eye area.
Made with just a few simple ingredients—water, glycerin, and sodium chloride—this solution avoids all the harsh additives you don’t want near your pup’s eyes. That means no sulfates, parabens, phthalates, artificial colors, or fragrances. It’s also pH-balanced specifically for dogs, making it a safe choice for regular use.
To use, simply apply 2–3 drops in each eye as needed, then gently wipe away any excess with a clean tissue or cloth. While the product is very gentle, some users find the bottle slightly hard to manage when trying to apply drops directly.
As with all of Burt’s Bees products, this eye wash is cruelty-free and made with a focus on natural, responsibly sourced ingredients, so you can feel good about what you’re using on your furry friend.
Product Details:
- Size: 4 fl oz
- Key Ingredients: Water, glycerin, sodium chloride, benzalkonium chloride
Best Paste
Squishface Wrinkle Paste
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Love:
- Effective on both tear stains and skin irritation in wrinkles
- Contains soothing ingredients like zinc oxide and coconut oil
- Often only needs daily use for the first week
- Antibacterial and antifungal formula
What Could Be Better:
- Not ideal for dogs with long hair
If you have a wrinkly pup like a Bulldog, Pug, or Frenchie, Squishface Wrinkle Paste might just become your new go-to. This thick, soothing paste is specially formulated to target both tear stains and irritated skin trapped between facial folds—making it a great two-in-one solution for breeds prone to facial moisture and redness.
To use, first clean the area thoroughly. Then apply a small amount (about a pea-sized dab) to the stained or irritated area. Be careful to avoid the eyes and wipe away any excess paste. Because it’s a topical treatment, it works best when applied directly to the skin rather than the fur—so it’s not the best fit for long-haired dogs.
This paste doesn’t just sit on the skin—it works actively to protect and heal. Zinc oxide helps create a barrier against moisture and bacteria, while coconut oil, avocado oil, and shea butter soothe and condition the skin. It’s also antibacterial and antifungal, helping prevent infections that can worsen tear stains or skin irritation.
Most pet parents see results with daily use for about a week, and then taper off to every other day or as needed to maintain a clean, healthy look.
Product Details:
- Size: 2 oz
- Key Ingredients: Coconut oil, avocado oil, shea butter, zinc oxide
Best Soft Chew
Zesty Paws Tear Stain Bites
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Love:
- Includes sustainably sourced fish oil rich in omega-3s
- Supports normal tear production and visual function
- Free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives
What Could Be Better:
- Not every dog enjoys the chicken flavor
If your dog struggles with tear stains and you’re looking for a more holistic approach, Zesty Paws Tear Stain Bites might be just what you need. These soft chews are formulated to support eye health and tear stain prevention—all in the form of a chicken-flavored treat your dog will (hopefully) love.
Each chew contains sustainably sourced fish oil, delivering 100 mg of omega-3 fatty acids to help maintain normal eye moisture and visual function. These bites also include a proprietary cranberry antioxidant blend, along with other supportive ingredients like marshmallow root, vitamin C, vitamin E, eyebright extract, lutein, and Ceylon cinnamon—all chosen for their role in eye and immune health.
Zesty Paws recommends starting with half a chew to gauge your dog’s interest and tolerance, especially since not all pups are fans of the chicken flavor. From there, a full daily dose depends on your dog’s size, ranging from one to three chews per day.
Manufactured in the USA, Zesty Paws is a trusted name in pet wellness and a proud member of the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC)—a mark of quality and transparency in the pet supplement industry.
Product Details:
- Quantity: 90 chews
- Key Ingredients: Cranberry antioxidant blend, marshmallow, vitamin C, vitamin E, fish oil, eyebright extract, Ceylon cinnamon, quercetin, astaxanthin, lutein
Best Supplement
Purina Pro Plan Fortiflora Probiotic Supplement
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Love:
- Available in powder packets or chewable tablets
- Easy to mix with food or give as a treat
- Liver flavor appeals to most dogs
What Could Be Better:
- Some dogs may experience mild digestive upset (e.g., diarrhea)
When it comes to reducing tear stains from the inside out, FortiFlora by Purina Pro Plan is a favorite among veterinarians. While not marketed specifically for tear stains, this probiotic supplement supports overall gut health and immune function, which can indirectly improve eye health and reduce tear stain formation.
“Supplements that promote a healthy immune system and skin can play a role in preventing tear stains,” explains Dr. Alejandro Caos. And since probiotics are known to support both immune and digestive systems, they may help reduce inflammation and excessive tearing linked to staining.
FortiFlora is available as a powder in single-serve packets or chewable tablets, making it easy to give based on your dog’s preferences. Simply sprinkle the powder over their food or offer the tablet as a treat during mealtime. The liver flavor is enticing for most dogs, making daily dosing stress-free.
While generally well-tolerated, some dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, when first starting the supplement. It’s best to use FortiFlora under the guidance of your veterinarian.
Product Details:
- Quantity: 30 packets
- Active Ingredient: Enterococcus faecium (probiotic)
Best Comb
Petpost Tear Stain Remover Comb
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Love:
- Rounded stainless steel teeth are safe and gentle
- Compact size makes it easy to maneuver
- Helps loosen buildup before cleaning
What Could Be Better:
- Can be a bit tricky to clean thoroughly
Before applying any tear stain remover, it’s a good idea to prep the area—and that’s where the Petpost Tear Stain Remover Comb really shines. This fine-toothed grooming tool is designed to gently separate hairs and lift away crusted debris and buildup around your dog’s eyes, making cleanup faster and more effective.
Veterinarian Dr. Alejandro Caos recommends using a damp comb first to remove clumped material: “This helps separate the hairs, remove gunk, and make it easier to clean.” The Petpost comb features rounded stainless steel teeth that are softer and more flexible than traditional flea combs, so it’s gentle even on sensitive skin.
At just over 2 inches long, the comb is small enough to comfortably work around most dogs’ eyes, though it might be a bit large for toy breeds. One downside is that it can be tough to fully clean if gunk gets lodged between the teeth. To keep it sanitary, rinse thoroughly with hot, soapy water after each use.
This little comb is a simple but powerful addition to your tear stain care routine—especially when paired with wipes or pastes.
Product Details:
- Size: Approx. 2 inches
- Material: Stainless steel (rounded teeth)
- Best For: Pre-cleaning tear stains on small to medium-sized dogs
Best Chews
Angels’ Eyes Natural Plus Chicken Flavored Soft Chews Tear Stain Supplement
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Love:
- Promotes healthy tear duct function
- Free from wheat, corn, and artificial flavorings
- Delicious chicken flavor dogs tend to enjoy
What Could Be Improved:
- Larger dogs need up to three chews daily, which can get pricey
If you want an easy way to support your dog’s tear duct health, Angels’ Eyes Natural+ Tear Stain Soft Chews are a convenient and tasty option. These chicken-flavored chews are free from common fillers like wheat, corn, and artificial flavors, making them a natural choice for daily tear stain prevention.
The formula combines powerful, natural ingredients—eyebright, olive leaf, cranberry, and marshmallow root—all known to promote healthy tear production and reduce staining.
Dosage depends on your dog’s weight, with smaller dogs needing fewer chews. However, larger breeds (over 50 pounds) require three chews a day, which can make the 90-chew supply last only about a month and increase the overall cost.
Overall, these soft chews are a great addition to your dog’s tear stain care routine, especially for those who prefer supplements over topical treatments.
Product Details:
- Quantity: 90 chews
- Key Ingredients: Cranberry, eyebright, olive leaf, marshmallow root
Best Gel
Professional Pet Products Pet Tear Stain Remover
CREDIT: CHEWY
What We Love:
- Thick gel texture for precise, easy application
- Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formula
- Safe for use on puppies and dogs with sensitive skin
What Could Be Better:
- May not work for all dogs or stubborn tear stains
For an easy-to-apply solution to tear stains, the Professional Pet Products Tear Stain Remover Gel is a solid choice. Its thick gel consistency lets you target the stained areas gently and precisely—just saturate a cotton swab and apply carefully around each eye, using a fresh swab for each side. No rinsing is needed afterward, which makes cleanup quick and hassle-free.
Formulated to be hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, this gel is safe for puppies and pets with sensitive skin. For dogs with heavy tear buildup, daily application is recommended. Many pet owners notice a reduction in staining after consistent use, although results can vary depending on the dog and severity of the stains.
While it might not completely eliminate stubborn stains, the gel is effective at softening dried discharge and eye gunk, making it easier to wipe away without discomfort.
Product Details:
- Size: 4 fl oz
- Key Ingredients: Sodium laureth sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine, disodium oleamido MIPA sulfosuccinate, carbomer 940, triethanolamine, glycol stearate, gluconolactone
Final Verdict: Best Dog Tear Stain Removers
Our top pick is Angels’ Eyes Gentle Tear Stain Wipes. These wipes have a gentle texture and are infused with aloe vera and chamomile to soothe sensitive skin around your dog’s eyes. If you prefer a liquid solution, Burt’s Bees Natural Eye Wash offers a simple, pH-balanced saline formula that’s safe and effective for dogs.
What to Look For in Dog Tear Stain Removers
Active Ingredients Matter
“When choosing a tear stain remover, it’s best to avoid harsh chemicals and unnecessary additives,” advises veterinarian Dr. Alejandro Caos. Look for products with natural, non-toxic ingredients and steer clear of artificial dyes, fragrances, or preservatives that can irritate your pup’s eyes.
Some products contain stronger ingredients like boric acid, salicylic acid, or hydrogen peroxide, which may pose risks if not used carefully. “Dogs with allergies might react not only to these actives but also to other components in the formula,” Dr. Caos warns. Always read labels thoroughly and consult your vet if you have any doubts.
Wipes vs. Eye Wash: Which is Better?
Tear stain wipes are quick and convenient, making them popular among pet parents. However, an eye wash or saline solution might be more effective for deeper cleaning. Keep in mind, though, that frequent eye washing can cause dryness, so always check with your veterinarian before starting an eye wash routine.
If you opt for eye wash, follow these steps:
- Fill a clean cup or dropper with sterile saline or eye wash solution.
- Gently hold your dog’s head steady.
- Carefully flush the eye with the solution.
- Let your dog shake off the excess liquid.
- Dab the area around the eyes dry with a clean cloth or tissue.
- Repeat daily or as advised by your vet.
Tear Stain Remover FAQs
Do tear stain remover treats really work?
Tear stain treats aim to reduce stains from the inside by supporting immune health and reducing inflammation. However, “there’s no conclusive scientific proof that these treats alone eliminate tear stains,” explains Dr. Caos. They may be a helpful part of a broader strategy but shouldn’t replace proper grooming and medical care.
What else helps control tear stains?
Keep the hair around your dog’s eyes trimmed and clean. Gently wipe with a warm, damp cloth or cotton ball regularly. Frequent baths and brushing reduce dirt and allergens that irritate eyes. Avoid scented products or environments that trigger tearing, and always consult your vet if staining worsens or persists.