EYES
Question most-often asked : Why do my dog's eyes tear so
much -- and why do the tears leave stains?
Each case has its' own unique origin.
Stains run the gamut from pinkish to rusty brown in color.
Genetics predispose certain toy breeds to tear stains - almost
everyone has heard of "poodle eye".
As a pup develops, the entire body goes thru major structural
changes, primarily in the cranium/face/mouth. Occasionally,
teething changes put pressure on tear ducts. Tearing & staining may appear in an otherwise healthy pup. Durable, safe chew items,
designed to relieve pressure, sometimes help excess moisture build-up & staining.
Eye & skull structure determine how excessively the eyes will tear. Some breeds are susceptible because the pooling
space inside the eye is too small to collect the fluid. If your dog has those big, beautiful eyes that "bug out" - it may be the problem.
Parasites - Fleas sometimes settle in the dogs' eye fluid, depositing waste material full of digested blood - thus irritating
the eye. Fleas may also carry ear mites which, of course, affect the dogs' ears. Ear infections sometimes cause tearing
of eyes, which may breed yeast & bacteria. Red yeast & fecal blood may cause stains under the eyes.
Blocked tear ducts - Should a blockage develop, tears overflow onto the dogs' face instead of draining thru the nose. Prominent eyes, like those found in most Chinese Cresteds, stretch the eyelids causing the ducts to become blocked more easily. Dirt, dust, hair, allergens, infections also clog the ducts.
Diet plays a part - commercial brands may contain beet pulp which could stain facial hair. Corn, wheat & soy are known allergens. Excess protein will be the problem w/ some dogs.
Minerals in your tap water could be the problem.
Plastic food/water bowls can cause allergies - test by changing to metal bowls - any difference?
An abnormal eyelid that turns inward, irritating surface of eyeball. Remedy" Surgery.
Hair around eyes acts like a wick, pulling the tears outward. Luckily, our CC's sport shaved faces, reducing this concern.
Eye irritations - excessive tears may be produced if the dogs' eyes are irritated by a foreign object/allergy.
Eye inflammation - corneal ulcers/inflammation of the duct system can cause excessive tears
Infections - continually wet hair contribute to bacterial & yeast growth. Red yeast is the most common & also found on paws, mouth & genitalia. An odor may accompany the situation.
As usual, the vet has the best answer to your problem.
Many people attempt to clear things up w/ home remedies of peroxide, corn starch, flour, Milk of Magnesia, even bleach. Oh come on, don't be silly. How vain are you that you would put such a caustic mixture near your dogs' eyes?
Red yeast is a PH imbalance, its best to experiment w/ SAFE products, that will change the PH in the body. Drops of cider vinegar in the water may help - but due to odor, the transition should be done slowly, over an extended period of time.
Over the counter alkalines, such as Tums, can be given 1/2 AM & 1/2 PM, changing the PH balance in the body.
Antibiotics may be needed, but its a dual-edged sword: antibiotics may clear up an infection but also cause a PH balance that will change once the meds are stopped.
Some folks may use a bit of petroleum jelly on tear path.
Some herbal remedies can be applied topically and internally. Read up on your products - be sure the cure is not worse than the disease.
Commercial products, such as Angel Eyes are available in most pet sections.
Rinsing regularly w/ saline solution is a good plan - keeps dust & foreign objects flushed.
Shaving hair around eyes is a big plus - no wick to transport tears.
Treats - keep an eye on possible low grade allergies to fun foods.
As always, study your dogs environment/behavior & report to vet - together a solution may be found.
