Saturday, November 22, 2014
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Vinegar & Dog Tear Stains
by Jo Chester, Demand Media
Many dogs have reddish-brown tear stains under their eyes
and on their muzzles. These stains are unsightly, but are not dangerous to
their health. Tear stains are usually easily removed with a few simple
treatments. They can also be easily prevented once they have been removed.
Tear Stain Causes
Physical characteristics, such as long hair on the muzzle or
around the eyes, deep facial wrinkles, blocked tear ducts or bulging eyes can
cause tear stains. Biological causes of red tear stains include red yeast,
various eye and ear infections and pH imbalance. Red tear stains can also be
caused by environmental factors, such as plastic food or water bowls and
minerals in the water your dog drinks.
Dogs Prone to Tear Stains
Any dog with white hair on his face, especially if he has
facial wrinkles or long hair or whiskers on his face, is prone to tear
staining. Breeds like West Highland white terriers, Maltese, Pekingese,
bulldogs, poodles and Chinese shar pei, among others, are likely to have
tear-stained faces. Mixed-breed dogs can also have tear-stained faces,
particularly if any of these breeds appear in their lineage.
White Vinegar
Adding a teaspoon of white vinegar to your dog’s drinking
water will change the water’s pH, which in turn will change your dog’s pH. The
slight increase in acidity will reduce the opportunity that any bacteria or
yeast has to take hold in your dog’s system. Once any existing tear stain has
been removed, continuing to add white vinegar to your dog’s water will either
reduce their recurrence or eliminate them entirely.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Like white vinegar, apple cider vinegar will raise your
dog’s pH when added to her water. Apple cider vinegar can also be used in your
dog’s food for a similar result. Add one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to
food or water for small dogs and one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to food
or water for medium to large dogs. In addition to its pH-changing properties,
however, apple cider vinegar can also be added to your dog’s final rinse water
following her bath. Once your dog’s rinse water runs clear, pour a 50/50
mixture of water and apple cider vinegar over her, followed by another rinse.
This mixture will act as a natural flea remedy, reducing any staining that your
dog may have through contact with fleas. Take care to avoid your dog’s eyes,
however, since vinegar will cause her eyes to sting.
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