In recent years, with the increase in the number of domestic Teddy dogs, there has been an increase in the number of clinical owners bringing their dogs to me to inquire about their dogs’ tears. Various products for cleaning tear stains are emerging on the Internet, and it is difficult for many owners to identify them. The product is good or bad, in the end the money is spent and the problem of dogs crying has not been solved.

Teddy dog's ectopic eyelashes cause epiphora

Double eyelashes causing epiphora

Entropion of the eyelids causes epiphora

If you really understand the cause of tears, the solution to the problem is not very complicated.

For professional pet ophthalmologists, our treatment of diseases is based on exploring the real causes of the disease. If we blindly only treat superficial symptoms, the final results will not be ideal.

We usually see many causes of severe tear stains on Teddy dogs in clinical practice. Most of them are caused by the abnormal growth of eyelashes in the inner corners of the eyes. These abnormal eyelashes irritate the eyes and lead to the production of excessive tears, which exceed the tear canaliculus. The ability to discharge tears will cause excessive tearing. At the same time, these abnormal eyelashes also act as a drainage medium, draining tears to the face, which aggravates the occurrence of tear stains. Because the iron contained in the tears is oxidized, a deep brown tear stain is left on the face of the white Poodle or Bichon Frize. This is the cause of tear stains in 90% of Teddy dogs or Poodles and Bichons. If this problem is not solved fundamentally, the use of the best tear stain test strips will be in vain!

Secondly, many dogs will have tear stains due to abnormal nasolacrimal ducts that prevent tears from being discharged in time. This problem is also relatively common. The pet doctor will use a fluorescent test paper to detect it. If the fluorescein cannot be found in the nasal cavity or oral cavity, it is best to flush the nasolacrimal duct to ensure that the tear drainage channel is clear. Smooth.

Thirdly, some dogs have abnormal eyelid shapes, or have double rows of eyelashes or abnormal eyelashes. These problems can also stimulate the animals to produce excessive tears, eventually leading to the occurrence of tear stains. This kind of problem can only be determined after a comprehensive examination of the dog's eyes by a professional doctor. The above problems account for more than 95% of the causes of tear stains. These problems often occur in Chow Chows, Shar-Peis, Cocker Spaniels, and Samoyeds.

Some owners also believe that the occurrence of tear stains is related to eating salty foods. I personally think this assumption is unfounded. Of course, as long as dogs eat normal commercial dog food, it will not be too salty. The proportion of salt in these commercial grains is appropriate.