My Yorkshire Terrier has tear stains.

Question
Hi Lori,

We have a Yorkie that is 3 years old.  He tends to have eye "gunk" or build up, right on the corner of each eye, actually on his fur, but right where the corner of his eyes are, that mats and stains.

I have used a soft warm cloth, and this helps, but soon there after, that yucky stuff comes back.  Like, the next day!  (His eyes have been checked by the vet, and the vet saw no eye problems).

Can you please suggest a product or maybe another technique I could use, OR do you happen to know if there is anyway to get rid of these "tear stains?"  

Thank you for taking the time to help me out.  I very much appreciate your help.

Beth

Answer
Hi, I love yorkies, aren't they so cute?!
it is not unusual for yorkies to have this eye problem, it frequently stems from hair that touches the eyes and causes excessive tearing, but it can also be caused by a tooth problem or just genetics.

I suspect genetics due to the fact you have had your dog checked at the vet.

I have a secret for you! It is inexpensive, easy and fast, and although it is a secret, I hope you share it with everyone so they can care for their dogs too!

Get some generic or any brand of artificial tears. They are just a bottle with the eye and contact lens products. People product is what you are getting.

Use this to soften the eye crud and then wipe it away. Rinse the dogs eyes with the artificial tear product.  Do this every day and at the beginning 2X a day. Soon the problem will not be so bad at all!

the red staining may not go away, and in fact, it can be altered by feeding a very good dog food with no artificial colors, SOMETIMES but not always.
At any rate, have fun with the drops because you will be thrilled!
Lori