How to prevent tear stains on your Shih Tzu
What's the story
Tear stains are a major headache for Shih Tzu owners, leaving unattractive reddish-brown streaks under the eyes of their otherwise cute-as-a-button pups.
This article offers a complete battle plan to prevent tear stains in Shih Tzus, with grooming, diet, and healthcare tips.
By following these guidelines, owners can ensure their pets' faces stay clean and beautiful.
Grooming
Regular grooming is key
Proper grooming is key to preventing tear stains in Shih Tzus.
Make sure to gently wipe around the eyes with a soft, damp cloth every day to remove any debris or buildup that might cause staining.
Also, keeping the hair around the eyes trimmed will help avoid irritation that leads to excessive tearing.
Diet
Choose the right diet
Your Shih Tzu's diet can be a key factor in controlling tear staining.
Opt for premium dog food devoid of fillers and allergens, which can trigger excessive tearing.
Also, offering filtered water instead of tap water minimizes the accumulation of stain-causing minerals around your dog's eyes.
This way, you eliminate dietary causes of the issue.
Healthcare
Stay on top of health checks
Regular vet exams are key to identifying and treating any medical conditions that may be causing your Shih Tzu to tear excessively.
Conditions such as blocked tear ducts or allergies can cause a dramatic increase in tear production, resulting in those unattractive stains beneath their eyes.
Without appropriate medical treatment, these conditions can continue or even worsen, so it's crucial to consult a vet for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Supplements
Consider tear stain supplements
There are several supplements on the market that promise to eliminate tear staining in Shih Tzus and other breeds.
These products often include ingredients such as tylosin tartrate, an antibiotic that can inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause staining.
However, it is always important to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any supplements into your dog's diet to guarantee they are safe and effective.
Environment
Maintain a clean environment
Keeping your Shih Tzu's environment clean and tidy is one of the most effective ways to prevent tear stains.
By regularly cleaning and dusting their bedding and play areas, you'll eliminate potential sources of irritation like dust and allergens.
This not only creates a healthier environment for your pup, but it also helps prevent the excessive tearing that causes those unsightly stains under their eyes.