What should I check if my dog’s tear stains smell bad? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog’s tear stains smell bad, it’s worth checking a few simple things because the smell is often a sign of damp fur, trapped debris, skin irritation or discharge rather than staining alone. It doesn’t automatically mean anything serious, but it does mean the area needs a closer look.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the smell is coming from the fur, the eye itself, or the skin folds around the eye.
2. Look for discharge, especially if it’s thick, yellow, green, or sticky rather than just watery tears.
3. Check for redness, swelling, rubbing, squinting or signs that your dog is uncomfortable.
4. Feel the skin around the stained area for dampness, soreness, heat or broken skin.
5. Check whether the smell is worse after sleep, wet weather, walks, grooming or eating.
6. Look at the hair around the eyes to see if it’s matted, stained with dirt, or holding moisture for long periods.
7. Notice whether the smell is coming from one eye or both, as that can help you judge whether it’s localised or part of a wider issue.
8. Check for any changes in your dog’s appetite, behaviour or comfort, especially if the eye area seems more than just messy.
Common Causes
The most common reason is moisture sitting in the coat for too long, which can let bacteria and yeast build up in the stained fur and create an odour.
Some dogs also have extra tearing because of eye irritation, blocked tear drainage, hair rubbing the eye, or a shallow tear film that overflows onto the coat.
Grooming products, food debris, or dirt trapped in the fur can also add to the smell, especially in dogs with longer coats around the face.
Less commonly, a smell may be linked to an eye infection, skin infection, or another issue affecting the eye area, which is why it’s best not to assume it’s only cosmetic.
What To Do
Gently clean and dry the area with a soft, clean cloth and plain lukewarm water unless your vet has already given you different advice.
Keep the fur around the eyes trimmed and tidy if your dog tolerates it, and avoid leaving the area damp after walks, rain or grooming.
Try to notice patterns such as whether the smell gets worse after certain activities, foods or weather conditions, as this can help your vet if you do need to ask for advice.
Do not use human creams, fragranced wipes or harsh cleaning products near the eyes.
If the smell keeps coming back, focus on keeping the face clean and dry while you monitor for any change in discharge, redness or discomfort.
Related Questions
Why does my dog have tear stains in the first place?
How do I clean my dog’s tear stains safely?
When should I worry about eye discharge in dogs?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.