lifestyle

Here's Why Some Dogs Have Leaky, Brownish Stains Under Their Eyes And Paws

If your dog has these stains, here's what you can do.

Cover image via Tractive & Canna Pet

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Ever wondered why there are reddish-brown stains around certain dogs' eyes or paws?

It's a pretty common sight, especially in breeds like Maltese, Bichon Frise, and Poodles.

But what causes these stains, and should you be worried?

Image via Petguide

These are called tear stains (for the eyes) or saliva stains (for spots your dog licks a lot)

Both are caused by porphyrin — a pigment found in your dog's tears and saliva. 

When it builds up on light-coloured fur, it leaves reddish-brown marks.

Image via Canna Pet

There are a few main reasons your dog might have these stains:

  1. Excessive tears (Epiphora)
    Some dogs — especially small breeds with short noses and shallow eye sockets — produce a lot of tears. When those tears don't drain properly, they sit on the fur, creating the perfect environment for staining.

  2. Frequent licking
    If your dog constantly licks their paws or body, their saliva can stain the fur in those spots. This often happens when they're itchy from allergies or feeling anxious.

  3. Yeast and bacteria
    Moist areas, like under the eyes or around the paws, are breeding grounds for yeast and bacteria. A type of yeast called Malassezia thrives here, darkening the stains even more — often with a funky smell.

  4. Diet and water
    Hard water (with lots of minerals) or iron-heavy diets can intensify the stains. Food allergies or poor-quality food can also contribute.

Image via Reddit

Are tear or paw stains harmful? Not really. However, in some cases, they may be a sign of underlying issues, such as:

  • Eye infections
  • Allergies
  • Blocked tear ducts

If the stains come with redness, swelling, or discomfort, it's time to visit the vet.

Image via Great Pet Care

Here are some ways to get rid of tear or paw stains:

  1. Clean regularly 
    Use pet-safe wipes or a soft cloth with warm water to gently clean the stained areas daily. For tear stains, you can also use saline solution (just like the kind humans use for their eyes).

  2. Grooming is key
    Keep the fur around the eyes trimmed short. This prevents tears from soaking into the fur and reduces staining.

  3. Filtered water
    Switch to filtered or distilled water instead of tap water to reduce mineral intake. Over time, this can help minimise staining.

  4. Improve their diet
    A high-quality, grain-free diet can make a big difference. Some dogs are sensitive to grains, which can increase tear production and staining.

  5. Try tear stain removers
    There are vet-approved products designed specifically to reduce staining. Be sure to choose one that's safe and gentle for your pup.

  6. Check for allergies
    If your dog licks their paws a lot, it might be due to allergies. A vet can help identify what's triggering the itchiness.

Image via Tote Hunde

Bottom line is brown stains might look a bit messy, but they're usually not a big deal

With regular cleaning, a good diet, and some extra care, you can help keep your dog's coat looking fresh and bright.

If you're ever unsure, don't hesitate to check with your vet — it's always better to be safe than sorry!

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