Short answer: reddish-brown stains are caused by excess tears – the pigments in them (porphyrins) colour light-coloured hair. They're limited by cleaning and drying the area daily, but first rule out a medical cause for the tearing.
Why they appear
The stains result from tears running down the face – due to increased tear production or poor tear drainage. Tears contain porphyrins – iron-containing pigments that stain the hair reddish-brown as they dry. Skin under the eyes that stays constantly damp can become irritated, making it easier for bacteria and yeast to develop there, which also stain the coat and cause odour.
They're most noticeable in white and light-coloured breeds – the Maltese, Bichon Frise, Shih Tzu – as well as in short-muzzled dogs and Persian cats.
First rule out a medical cause
If the tearing started suddenly, is one-sided, or the eye is red or squinting, see a vet. Possible causes include a blocked tear duct, abnormally growing eyelashes, an inward-rolling eyelid, allergy, conjunctivitis, corneal injury, or an anatomical feature typical of brachycephalic (short-muzzled) breeds.
Grooming products improve appearance but don't address the cause.
Daily care
- Clean the area every day with a soft damp cloth or an eye-area cleaning product.
- Dry thoroughly – this matters just as much as the cleaning itself.
- Keep the hair around the eyes short or tie it up, so it doesn't trap moisture or irritate the eyes.
- When bathing, you can use a whitening shampoo for light coats – take care not to get it in the eyes.
What not to do
- Don't use hydrogen peroxide or bleaching agents near the eyes.
- Don't use antibiotic products against stains without a prescription – long-term use of low-dose antibiotics for tear stains is no longer recommended.
- Don't expect instant results – stained hair has to grow out and be trimmed off.
Suitable products
Browse our eye care products and dog shampoos, including ones for white coats. For help choosing a shampoo, see the "Which Shampoo" guide.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for the stains to disappear?
Hair that's already stained doesn't fade completely – it has to grow out and be trimmed off. With regular cleaning and drying, new stains are significantly reduced.
Does diet play a role?
In some dogs, an allergy, including to a food ingredient, can increase tearing. Only change the diet after consulting a vet.
Can I remove them with just water?
Water is enough for daily cleaning, as long as you dry thoroughly afterwards. Specialised eye-area cleaning products make the job easier but don't remove the cause of the tearing.
Do cats get tear stains too?
Yes – especially Persians and other short-muzzled cats. Wipe the eyes daily with a soft damp cloth, and consult a vet if tearing is severe.