Our baby boy Gunnar, a 140-pound, 2-year-old Great Pyrenees—is literally (but affectionately) nicknamed "Boogie" thanks to his legendary eye boogers! 😂 If you're a dog owner, you’ve probably noticed your pup occasionally getting eye boogers or tear stains. It’s natural to wonder if these are signs of a health issue. The good news? For most dogs, these are completely normal. Keep reading as we explore the common causes behind eye boogers and tear stains, along with some helpful tips to keep them under control.
Why Do Our Dogs’ Eyes Tear Up?
Your dog’s eyes function very similarly to yours—they naturally produce tears to clean, protect, and lubricate the eyes. These tears typically result in a discharge that is clear or slightly gray in color and usually doesn’t irritate the eyes or the surrounding area. However, if you observe reddish-brown stains forming around your dog’s eyes, it’s likely caused by porphyrins. These are iron-containing molecules naturally present in tears and saliva, which can discolor the fur when exposed to air over time, creating those characteristic stains.
And why are they that color? Well, iron = reddish brown color.
What Causes Tear Staining Around a Dog’s Eyes?
Porphyrins found in a dog’s tears contain iron, which is responsible for giving the stains a rust-like or reddish-brown color when the tears come into contact with the fur. The unique structure and shape of a dog’s eyelids can cause some tears to spill over onto the fur, resulting in staining patterns. These stains are more noticeable on light-colored dogs but can appear on dogs of any color or breed. Since porphyrins are also found in saliva, you might additionally notice discoloration around your dog’s mouth, especially in areas where fur is frequently exposed to drooling or licking. Pet parents often notice this on their dogs’ paws, particularly the fur in between their webbing.
Why Do Dogs Have Eye Boogers?
Eye boogers in dogs are a completely natural phenomenon. Similar to humans, dogs’ tears serve to collect dust, dirt, and pollutants from the air, which then dry up and form boogers while they rest or sleep. Outdoor play, especially on windy days or in dusty environments, can increase the amount of debris entering your dog’s eyes, often leading to more boogers. While boogers are typically harmless, persistent or excessive discharge could be an indicator of an underlying health concern. Here are some common causes that may require attention:
1. Allergies
Dogs, much like humans, can develop sensitivities or allergies to environmental triggers such as pollen from trees, grass, and flowers. These allergic reactions may lead to increased eye boogers and could also cause symptoms like skin irritation or itchiness. If you suspect allergies as the cause, consult your veterinarian to identify the specific triggers and discuss potential treatment options tailored to your dog’s needs.
2. Eye Irritants
Dust, sand, or other small particles can become trapped in your dog’s eyes, prompting their immune system to produce tears and boogers in an effort to flush out the irritants. In most cases, these irritants will clear up naturally. However, if your dog exhibits prolonged tearing, discomfort, or signs of irritation, it’s important to consult your veterinarian to rule out more serious issues.
3. Dry Eyes
When a dog doesn’t produce enough tears, the resulting dryness can lead to the development of thick, sticky eye discharge. This condition can be uncomfortable for your dog and may require veterinary attention. Your vet might suggest using medication or artificial tears to address the issue and keep your dog’s eyes moisturized and healthy.
4. Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is a condition where the mucous membranes around a dog’s eyes become inflamed or irritated. This condition can result in symptoms such as redness, increased irritation, and an uptick in eye boogers. Since conjunctivitis often requires medical attention, it’s best to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
5. Breed-Specific Issues
Certain breeds are naturally more prone to eye-related concerns due to their unique physical traits. For instance, breeds like Pugs, which have prominent eyes, are more likely to experience issues because their eyelids may not fully close with every blink, leading to increased discharge or dryness. Understanding your dog’s breed-specific risks can help you take proactive measures to maintain their eye health.
6. Other Health Conditions
Some health conditions, such as glaucoma, eyelid growths, or eye ulcers, can result in increased tear production and excessive eye boogers. If you suspect an underlying medical problem, it’s essential to seek veterinary advice promptly to address it and prevent further complications.
When Should I Contact a Veterinarian?
If your dog’s tears or eye boogers appear unusual or excessive, it’s important to contact your veterinarian for an examination. Be vigilant for symptoms such as redness, swelling, signs of pain, or a sudden increase in the amount of discharge. Additionally, if your dog begins pawing at their eyes aggressively or showing signs of significant discomfort, it’s critical to seek immediate veterinary attention, as this behavior could indicate a serious issue.
If you’re unable to visit a veterinarian in person, consider using PangoVet, an online service that allows you to connect with a licensed veterinarian for personalized advice. This convenient option is both affordable and effective for getting professional guidance about your pet’s eye health.
Tips to Reduce Tear Staining
- Gently clean the areas around your dog’s eyes and mouth every day using a warm, damp cloth to remove buildup.
- Consider using pet-safe commercial eye wipes, which are specially designed to minimize staining and are gentle on your dog’s skin.
- Switch to filtered water instead of tap water, as high mineral content in tap water may contribute to increased staining.
- Keep the fur around your dog’s eyes trimmed and well-maintained to prevent excessive staining and irritation.
- Ensure that the area around your dog’s eyes remains as dry as possible to reduce the likelihood of discoloration and discomfort.
- If tearing seems excessive or occurs along with other concerning symptoms like redness or swelling, consult your vet to rule out underlying health issues that may require treatment.
Tear stains and eye boogers are generally harmless and a normal part of your dog’s natural biology. Stains result from naturally occurring molecules in tears, while boogers form when tears collect and trap dirt or debris. However, if you notice these signs becoming abnormal, excessive, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, contact your vet to ensure your furry companion’s health and overall comfort.
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