How to Get Rid of Your Shih Tzu's Tear Stains
Tear stains on your Shih Tzu can be more than just a cosmetic issue; they can signal deeper underlying problems. In this blog post, we'll discover the causes of those pesky tear stains and provide practical dog care tips for keeping your furry friend's face clean. You'll learn about the role of diet, grooming routines, and specific products designed to tackle this issue effectively. Say goodbye to tear stains and hello to a happier, healthier Shih Tzu!
Addressing Underlying Issues:
Tear stains are often caused by a mix of factors; let's dive into a few of the contributing factors.
- Diet: A dog's diet plays a significant role in your dog’s overall health and can influence the level of tear staining. Low-quality dog food may contain additives and fillers that can cause digestive upset, leading to excessive tear discharge. Opting for a high-quality, balanced diet ensures that your dog gets the right nutrients and reduces the likelihood of tear staining due to dietary issues.
- Allergies: Allergies (food, environmental, and contact) are another common culprit behind dog tear stains. Dogs can develop allergies to various substances, including certain foods, direct contact with irritants, and even environmental allergens like pollen. Allergic reactions can irritate the eyes, leading to increased tearing and staining. Identifying and addressing the specific allergen is key to managing tear stains effectively.
- Water Quality: The high mineral content in tap water can also contribute to eye staining. Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that can result in discoloration around your dog’s eyes. Switching to filtered or distilled water can help reduce the mineral buildup and alleviate tear staining.
- Plastic Bowls: These bowls can harbor bacteria, often resulting in worsening of tear stains. Bacteria can manifest on plastic surfaces and make their way to your pup's face, causing irritation and more tearing. A simple way to help is by switching to stainless steel or ceramic dog bowls.
- Shallow eye sockets: A structural issue that some dog breeds, especially those with flat faces experience. Shih Tzus, Pugs, Bulldogs, and other brachycephalic breeds often have shallow eye sockets that make them more prone to tear staining. In many cases, regular cleaning and attention to other contributing factors are crucial.
By addressing these underlying issues, you can significantly reduce or even eliminate tear stains on your dog. Understanding the causes and implementing appropriate changes in diet, environment, and grooming practices is key to maintaining a clean and healthy appearance for your furry friend.
Daily Grooming with Squishface Products:
For a straightforward solution to tear stains, Squishface products are beyond helpful! Squishface Wrinkle Wipes are perfect for daily cleaning, while tackling bacteria, yeast, and fungus with ingredients like ketoconazole and chlorhexidine.
For optimal results, use Squishface Tear Stain Paste! All you need is a pea-sized amount, and massage it deep into the skin that's affected. This paste has a thin consistency that includes the soothing ingredients of coconut oil, shea butter, and avocado oil. These ingredients form a protective barrier keeping moisture, bacteria, yeast, and fungus away. Remember - consistency is key!
The Bottom Line:
Incorporating proper dog care tips into your daily dog care grooming routine can make a big difference in managing tear stains. Regular grooming and attention to your Shih Tzu’s diet and environment are key. With the right products and a bit of diligence, you can keep those unsightly stains at bay and maintain your pup’s happy, healthy look. Remember, effective dog care is all about consistency and using the right tools for the job!
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