6 Common Reasons Why Your Dog's Eyes Are Tearing and How to Help

There are six primary reasons why your dog might be experiencing excessive tearing: irritants, ingrown eyelashes, blocked tear ducts, high salt intake, internal heat, and allergies.

1. Irritating Odors

One of the major causes for a dog's tearing is exposure to strong or irritating smells. These odors can cause eye inflammation, leading to increased tear production, and excessive tearing can also occur if your dog is experiencing separation anxiety.

2. Ingrown Eyelashes (Distichiasis)

Ingrown eyelashes, or distichiasis, occur when eyelashes grow inward, irritating the eye. These eyelashes can rub against the eyeball causing discomfort, leading to excessive tearing and your dog scratching at their eyes. Surgical removal of the ingrown lashes is often the best solution.

3. Blocked Nasolacrimal Ducts

Blocked tear ducts are another reason for excessive tearing. When tear ducts are blocked, tears cannot drain properly and overflow onto the face. This condition is commonly due to swelling or inflammation within the tear ducts, and surgical intervention is often required to clear the blockage.

4. High Salt Intake

Excessive salt consumption can also be a cause for increased tear production, even leading to tear stains. It's crucial to manage your dog's salt intake and opt for low-sodium dog food to help minimize the problem.

5. Internal Heat (Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective)

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles, internal heat can also contribute to excessive tearing. This can stem from an imbalanced diet, insufficient water intake, or nutritional deficiencies. Manage your dog’s diet by ensuring it's balanced, not too salty, and provide plenty of fresh water.

6. Allergies

Allergies are a common culprit behind excessive tearing in dogs, as exposure to allergens, either inhaled or ingested, can cause an allergic reaction, leading to increased tear production and sometimes eye inflammation. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, and certain foods.

To help manage these tear-related issues, consider using oral supplements such as the "Miao Shou Yi Sheng Tear Stain Remover Liquid". This product is designed with a natural plant-based formula to help improve tear stains in both dogs and cats. It contains chrysanthemum, which is rich in lutein, and can help to relieve eye fatigue by clearing heat and toxins. Cassia seed, with its benefits for promoting clear vision and relieving dry eyes, supports retinal nerve cell development. Honey can promote liver metabolism and protect the liver; Taurine is added to fight inflammation and inhibit bacteria, reducing eye secretions, and B vitamins can nourish the optic nerve, relieve fatigue and regulate tear ducts. If symptoms worsen, it is essential to seek professional veterinary care, as this could be a sign of a more serious issue. Veterinarian treatment can greatly alleviate the symptoms and ensure your dog's continued well-being.

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