Many Japanese Spitz, being a white dog, can be prone to having reddish-brown stains below their eyes. This is especially true with puppies and often is worse at the time they are teething. These stains often fade as the puppy gets older.
What causes eye tear stains in Japanese Spitz
Some adult Japanese Spitz do still get eye tear staining. This is rarely a health issue or the result of any serious eye issue. In a few cases it can be caused by block tear ducts. A vet will be able to advise you if this is the case and what may be need to fix the problem.
Usually eye tear stain is more of a cosmetic issue and there are a few remedies to help fade and reduce the appearance of the stain. The most common causes are diet, dust and debris getting in the eye, or allergies. Allergies tend to be a seasonal thing and the staining may be worse at certain times of the year such as Spring time.
Your dog’s drinking water can also cause staining under the eyes and around the mouth. Some water supplies have a high mineral content. You can try to give your dog bottled water to see if this makes a difference. Another solution is to add a teaspoon ofapple cider vinegar to your dog’s water bowl.
How to remove tear stains in Japanese Spitz naturally
As stated this is generally a cosmetic issue. This is undesirable especially in show dogs. There are a few natural home remedies you can try. It is a case of experimentation to see which if any of these natural remedies works best for your Japanese Spitz.
The success of any of these approaches will depend on what the actual cause of the eye tear staining is.
Apple Cider Vinegar in water
Put a teaspoon of Apple Cider Vinegar in your dog’s drinking water. This not only helps with the mineral content in the water. It also changes the pH of your dog’s tears to them more alkaline. The change in alkalinity makes it difficult for yeast and bacteria to thrive, causing less eye irritation and fewer stains.
Cornstarch paste
Mix a tablespoon of water with the cornstarch until it the consistency similar to toothpaste. Apply the cornstarch just under your dog´s eyes. Allow it to dry before wiping it away using a cotton ball or makeup removal pad.
You can add a tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide mixed in also. It is very important to carefully apply the mixture just under the eyes on the stained area. Avoid contact to the sensitive skin inside the eye.
For more simple hacks using cornstarch see here.
Homemade tear stain remover
You can make your own tear stain remover to apply to the affected area. Mix 1 tablespoon Milk of Magnesia with 1 tablespoon hydrogen peroxide. Then add enough cornstarch to make a thick paste.
Being very careful not to get any in the eye, spread the solution on the tear stain area. Let it set for several hours and wash with a cloth dipped in warm water. Repeat the process daily until the tear stains fade.
Change your dog’s diet
In many cases, diet can be the cause of tear staining. Many low-quality dog foods contain dyes and artificial coloring. Some foods are also high in certain minerals such as cooper than can cause eye staining.
A higher quality diet will also help to boost your dog’s immune system helping to combat bacteria.
Plain white yogurt
Give your dog 1 teaspoon of plain white yogurt twice a day with each meal. You can mix the yogurt into the food or they can lick it off of a spoon as a treat.
Yeast is a common contributor to staining. A probiotic such as yogurt can help prevent them. Alternatively, you can give your dog a probiotic supplement like this.
Best tear stain remover for Japanese Spitz
There are many eye tear stain removal products available. If you have tried some of the home remedies and had less than expected results, these are a good option.
My top picks for eye teat stain removal products are: –
Petpost tear stain remover
I have found this to be extremely effective even on white dogs such as Japanese Spitz. It is easy to apply using the nozzle applicator. This product contains no bleach, antibiotics, or harsh chemicals so it is safe for your dog..
100% Guarantee – If The Petpost Tear Stain Remover does not help relieve your dogs tear stains after regular use they will replace it or give you 100% of your money back, no questions asked.
View Petpost tear stain remover on Amazon.
Arava Pet Eye Wipes
These are a handy wipe to keep your dog’s eyes clean and clear. They work best as a preventive more than a way to remove existing staining. They are a good idea once you have the major staining problem under control to to prevent them returning.
View Arava Pet Eye Wipes on Amazon.
Summary – Japanese Spitz eye stain remedies
The key to eliminating eye tear stains on your Japanese Spitz is to work out what the cause is. This can take a little experimentation. If your Japanese Spitz is a puppy, you may find the eye staining improves wtih age.
Potential causes may include –
- blocked tear ducts (speak to your vet for solutions)
- dust, smoke or similar getting in the eye making them water.
- drinking water – give bottle water or add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to their bowl.
- diet – minerals, coloring and additives in some foods may be a cause.
- allergies – seasonal allergies such as pollen or even food alergies can cause excessive eye watering.
We hope this guide has been helpful in finding a solution that works for your Japanese Spitz.
Related Japanese Spitz Articles: