Epiphora is the term used to describe excessive tearing, leaving stains on the dog’s face.

Signs & Symptoms of Tear Staining in Dogs

The most obvious symptom noted is the tear staining on the dog’s face, as well as the constant wetness around the eyes.

Causes of Tear Staining in Dogs

Epiphora occurs because a mechanism is causing the production of too much tearing. There are several reasons why this condition occurs in dogs and they include the following:

• Entropion (abnormally shaped eyelids)
• Obstruction of the dog’s tear ducts
• Malposition of the dog’s tear ducts (e.g. in dogs with protruding eyes)
• Certain breeds are more likely to develop epiphora. These breeds include the Cocker Spaniel, Lhasa Apso, Yorkshire Terrier, English Bulldog, Chinese Shar-Pei, and Boston Terrier.

Diagnosis of Tear Staining in Dogs

Diagnosis begins with a complete history and a physical exam. Your veterinarian will be most likely do the following:

• Schirmer tear test - This is the most common tear producing test performed. A special strip of absorbent paper is placed inside the dog’s lower eyelid and left for about a minute, during which time the amount of tear production is measured. As tears are produced the strip changes color, allowing for easy measuring.
• Corneal stain - A fluorescent dye is placed in the dog’s eye and then examined with an ultraviolet light. If an ulcer is present it will glow green under the UV light. Your veterinarian can now evaluate the size and location of ulcer.
• Intraocular pressure (IOP) - This can be measured to determine if glaucoma is present.
• Tear duct exam – The dog’s tear ducts are examined and sometimes flushed to ensure proper drainage is possible.

Treatment for Tear Staining in Dogs

The treatment of epiphora can be done using topical medications or antibiotics if an infection is present. Sometimes surgical repair of the tear ducts, or the eyelashes if they are the chief cause, is needed. Managing epiphora is done through daily cleaning of the tear stained areas. This can be a chronic problem for dogs.

Prevention of Tear Staining in Dogs

There is no prevention for excessive tearing.