What do groomers use to get rid of tear stains? - The Environmental Literacy Council (2025)

Professional groomers employ a multi-faceted approach to tackle stubborn tear stains on dogs, combining specialized products with meticulous techniques. It’s not just about slapping on a solution; it’s about understanding the underlying causes and implementing a comprehensive plan. Groomers primarily use a combination of tear stain removers, cleansing solutions, specialized tools, and often, preventative strategies to minimize future staining. These professionals also carefully consider the dog’s breed, coat type, and the severity of the staining before proceeding. In addition, groomers provide advice to owners about dietary adjustments that can reduce the formation of tear stains.

The Groomer’s Arsenal: Products and Tools for Tear Stain Removal

Groomers rely on a selection of professional-grade products and specialized tools to address tear stains effectively. These include:

Tear Stain Removers

• Enzyme-Based Cleaners: These products often contain enzymes that break down the organic compounds (porphyrins) in tear stains, making them easier to remove. They are generally gentle and considered safe for regular use.
• Colloidal Silver Solutions: Colloidal silver has antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the bacteria and yeast that contribute to tear stains.
• Boric Acid Solutions: Mild boric acid solutions, often found in some contact lens cleaners, help oxidize the iron in porphyrins, which can lighten stains. These solutions must be used with caution to avoid eye irritation.
• Whitening Shampoos: Some grooming shampoos are formulated with mild whitening agents that can help reduce the appearance of tear stains.

Cleansing Agents & Solutions

• Saline Solutions: Gentle saline solutions are used to flush the eye area, removing debris and tear residue.
• Witch Hazel: This is used to gently cleanse the area around the eyes and has astringent properties that may help to reduce tear stains. However, it must be diluted properly to avoid irritation.
• Diluted Hydrogen Peroxide: While many sources caution against using hydrogen peroxide near the eyes, some groomers carefully and judiciously apply a highly diluted solution to the fur around the eyes to help lighten stains. This must be used with extreme caution and not near the eyes.
• Contact Lens Solutions: Some groomers use contact lens solution containing boric acid, being extremely careful to avoid the eyes themselves.

Specialized Tools

• Fine-Tooth Combs: Small, fine-tooth combs help to gently remove debris and buildup from around the eye area.
• Cotton Pads & Swabs: Used for applying cleansers and removers, cotton pads and swabs allow for precise application.
• Grooming Scissors: Small, blunt-nosed scissors are essential for trimming the fur around the eyes, keeping it short and preventing tears from soaking the hair.
• Microfiber Cloths: Soft microfiber cloths are used for gentle cleaning and drying.

The Grooming Process: Step-by-Step Tear Stain Removal

The process a groomer undertakes involves several key steps:

1. Consultation and Assessment: The groomer begins by assessing the extent and severity of the tear stains, considering the dog’s breed, coat type, and overall health. They may also discuss potential dietary factors with the owner.
2. Eye Area Preparation: The area around the eyes is carefully trimmed to remove any excess fur that might be contributing to tear staining. This is done with extreme care using blunt-tipped grooming scissors.
3. Gentle Cleansing: The eyes are gently flushed with a saline solution to remove any dirt, debris, or tear residue.
4. Application of Tear Stain Remover: The chosen tear stain remover is applied using a cotton pad or swab to the affected fur, taking extreme care to avoid getting any product in the eyes.
5. Gentle Scrubbing and Removal: A soft cloth or cotton pad is used to gently scrub the stained area, removing the loosened stain residue.
6. Rinsing and Drying: The area is thoroughly rinsed with warm water and carefully dried with a soft microfiber cloth.
7. Application of Protective Barrier: A small amount of petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or coconut oil may be applied to the fur below the eyes to create a barrier that repels tears and prevents future staining.
8. Post-Grooming Advice: The groomer discusses home care with the owner, including daily cleaning routines, dietary recommendations, and product suggestions for at-home maintenance.

Preventative Measures: Beyond the Grooming Salon

Groomers understand that tear stain removal is not a one-time fix. They emphasize the importance of preventative measures, which can include:

• Dietary Changes: Recommending high-quality, protein-rich dog food that eliminates common allergens like corn, wheat, and low-quality grains is crucial. Often, red meats are discouraged and the use of poultry or fish is preferred.
• Regular Facial Grooming: Educating owners about the importance of regular facial cleaning, using products recommended by the groomer.
• Keeping Facial Hair Short: Maintaining trimmed fur around the eyes can significantly reduce staining.
• Using Distilled Water: Some groomers advise switching to distilled water as minerals in tap water may exacerbate tear stains.
• Consultation with a Vet: If tear stains are persistent, a vet visit may be recommended to rule out any underlying medical conditions such as blocked tear ducts.

FAQs About Tear Stains and Grooming

1. Can a groomer completely get rid of tear stains?

While a groomer can significantly reduce the appearance of tear stains, completely eliminating them is not always possible. Success depends on the severity of the stains, the dog’s individual biology, and consistent at-home maintenance. Preventative measures are often the most important component of treatment.

2. How often should I take my dog to the groomer for tear stain removal?

The frequency of grooming visits depends on the severity of the tear stains and the dog’s breed. For dogs prone to heavy staining, bi-weekly or monthly visits might be necessary in conjunction with daily at-home maintenance. For others, every 2-3 months may be sufficient.

3. Are tear stain removers safe for all dogs?

Most professional-grade tear stain removers are considered safe for dogs when used as directed. However, it’s essential to choose products specifically formulated for pets and to avoid human products, which may contain harmful ingredients. Always consult your groomer or vet if you have concerns.

4. Can I use human makeup remover to clean tear stains?

No, never use human makeup remover on your dog. These products often contain harsh chemicals that can irritate or harm your pet’s eyes.

5. Is it okay to use hydrogen peroxide on my dog’s tear stains?

While highly diluted hydrogen peroxide can lighten the fur around the eyes, it must be used with extreme caution and only on the fur, never near the eyes. It’s best to consult with a professional groomer before attempting this at home. Direct contact with the eyes can cause severe damage.

6. Does the dog’s diet affect tear stains?

Yes, diet plays a significant role in tear stain formation. Low-quality proteins, red meats, and common allergens such as corn, wheat, and artificial colors can exacerbate tear staining. A high-quality diet with poultry or fish as the primary protein source is often recommended.

7. Can I use coconut oil to treat tear stains?

Coconut oil can create a barrier to help prevent tears from soaking into the fur but it does not remove existing tear stains. It has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.

8. Do blueberries help with tear stains?

Some pet owners report that using a blueberry facial mixture can help with tear stains, likely due to their natural antioxidant properties. However, scientific evidence to support this is limited and should not be a primary treatment.

9. How long does it take to see results from tear stain treatments?

Results vary depending on the severity of the staining and the consistency of treatment. You may see gradual improvement over a few weeks with consistent home care and grooming appointments.

10. Is it okay to use Vaseline around my dog’s eyes?

Yes, using a small amount of Vaseline (petroleum jelly) under the eyes can help create a moisture barrier, preventing tears from soaking into the fur and causing stains.

11. Do certain breeds of dogs have more tear stains?

Yes, certain breeds, particularly small white-haired breeds like Maltese, Bichons, and Shih Tzus are more prone to tear stains due to their facial structure and coat color.

12. What are porphyrins and how do they relate to tear stains?

Porphyrins are iron-containing molecules that are naturally present in tears. When these molecules are exposed to air, they can cause a reddish-brown stain on light-colored fur.

13. Can allergies cause tear stains in dogs?

Yes, allergies, both food and environmental, can contribute to excessive tearing, leading to more pronounced tear stains. Identifying and managing allergies can be crucial in reducing tear stains.

14. Does apple cider vinegar help with tear stains?

Some owners find that adding a small amount of apple cider vinegar to their dog’s food or water can help reduce tear stains. However, results can vary, and it’s always a good idea to consult with a vet or groomer before introducing any new supplement.

15. Can tear stains be a sign of a health problem?

Yes, persistent or excessive tear stains can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health issue such as blocked tear ducts, eye infections, or allergies. A visit to the veterinarian is recommended if the staining is severe or accompanied by other symptoms like eye discharge or redness.