Sometimes dogs can get stains around their eyes.

There are several reasons for this. First, it can be genetic.

Dogs can be born with narrow tear ducts or extra eyelashes that curl under and rub the eye. It is best not to breed dogs that are predisposed to this genetic characteristic.

The actual staining is caused from red yeast in your dog's system. There are products such as "Angel Eyes"that targets red yeast.

These products can be added to your pet's food daily to stop the staining.

Other causes of staining are teething, food, allergies, or ear infections.

Puppies cut teeth up to 8 months. This may cause pressure on the tear ducts. Just like a human baby, where teething can cause runny noses and excessive tearing, so it does in a puppy. You need to be patient. This too, will pass.

We have discovered that the number one culprit has been food.

We do not feed our dogs food that contains wheat, corn, or food coloring because these can cause allergies. Remember, dogs are carnivores.

If your dog is an adult dog that has had no previous tearing, and suddenly begins tearing, see your vet to check for ear infections and tooth problems. Even though tearstaining can occur, it is solvable.