🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Expert Pick: Best Dog Paw Balm for Tear Stains 2026

Tear stains often stem from paw licking due to dryness. Our expert compares 5 top balms, with Burt's Bees Natural Paw and Nose Lotion as the leading choice to soothe irritation.

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ProPawPicks Editorial Team
ProPawPicks Reviewer
Updated

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Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Paw and Nose Lotion ★ Top Pick: Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Paw and Nose Lotion Check Price on Amazon →
5
Products Reviewed
100%
Natural Ingredients
4.5
Average Rating
2 oz
Typical Size
⚡ Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Paw and Nose Lotion. This balm uses shea butter and beeswax to deeply moisturize paws, reducing irritation that.
  • Best for Sensitive Skin: Earthbath All Natural Paw Balm. With oatmeal and aloe vera, this balm soothes sensitive paws.
  • Best for Tear Stain Prevention: Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Pet Wound and Skin Care. While not a traditional balm, this spray helps keep paws clean and free from bacteria that.
  • Best for Dry Paws: Natural Dog Company Snout Soother. Formulated with organic ingredients like coconut oil and vitamin E, this balm repairs dry,.
  • Best Budget: Paw Soother by Natural Dog Company. A budget-friendly option that still contains natural ingredients like shea butter and jojo.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

ProductBest For
Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Paw and Nose Lot… Best Overall Check price →
Earthbath All Natural Paw Balm Best for Sensitive Skin Check price →
Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Pet Wound and Sk… Best for Tear Stain Prevention Check price →
Natural Dog Company Snout Soother Best for Dry Paws Check price →
Paw Soother by Natural Dog Company Best Budget Check price →

Quick answer

The best dog paw balm for tear stains is Burt’s Bees for Dogs Natural Paw and Nose Lotion. It uses shea butter and beeswax to moisturize paws, which can reduce tear staining caused by irritation. For dogs with very sensitive skin, consider Earthbath All Natural Paw Balm with oatmeal and aloe. Both are safe and effective.

What to consider for Dog Paw Balm For Tear Stains

Tear stains are often caused by excessive tearing, which can be triggered by paw irritation. A good paw balm should moisturize and protect paws, reducing the need for dogs to lick them. Look for balms with natural, non-irritating ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, or vitamin E. Avoid balms with artificial fragrances or dyes, as these can worsen staining. Also consider the texture: a balm that stays on without being greasy is ideal.

What to look for in a grooming product (shampoo, brush, clipper or wipe)

When choosing a grooming product for tear stain management, consider the dog’s coat type and skin sensitivity. For shampoos, opt for gentle, dog-safe formulas with a pH balanced for dogs (around 7.5). Avoid human shampoos. For brushes, choose bristle or pin brushes for short coats and slicker brushes for long coats. Clippers should have ceramic or titanium blades for durability and low noise. Wipes should be alcohol-free and hypoallergenic. Ease of use is key, especially for nervous dogs.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated ingredient lists for natural, safe components.
  • Checked for moisturizing properties to reduce paw licking.
  • Considered brand reputation and customer feedback.
  • Ensured products are widely available on Amazon.
  • Focused on balms specifically marketed for paws or tear stains.
  • Compared price points for value.
  • Verified that products are free from harsh chemicals.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Human shampoo: wrong pH for dogs, can irritate skin.
  • Harsh fragrances: can trigger allergies and worsen tear stains.
  • Dull clipper blades: pull hair, causing discomfort.
  • Brushing a matted coat without detangling first: painful and can damage coat.

For more grooming tips, see our dog guides, dog care products, and dog health sections.

Why this matters

Tear stains are often a symptom of underlying irritation, and paw balm addresses a common cause: paw licking due to dryness.

The Options

Types Explained

Paw Balms

Thick, moisturizing balms applied directly to paws to soothe and protect.

Best for: Dogs with dry or cracked paws that lead to excessive licking.

Paw Sprays

Liquid sprays that clean and condition paws, often with antimicrobial properties.

Best for: Dogs with tear stains caused by bacterial or yeast overgrowth.

Wipes

Pre-moistened wipes for quick paw cleaning between baths.

Best for: On-the-go cleaning to remove dirt and allergens.

Creams

Lighter lotions that absorb quickly, suitable for daily use.

Best for: Dogs with mild dryness or as a preventative measure.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Paw and Nose Lotion
Best Overall

Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Paw and Nose Lotion

View on Amazon

This balm uses shea butter and beeswax to deeply moisturize paws, reducing irritation that can lead to tear stains. It's made with natural ingredients and is safe if licked. However, it has a mild scent that some dogs may not like.

Check Price on Amazon →
#2
Earthbath All Natural Paw Balm
Best for Sensitive Skin

Earthbath All Natural Paw Balm

View on Amazon

With oatmeal and aloe vera, this balm soothes sensitive paws. It's fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, ideal for dogs prone to allergies. A downside is its slightly greasy texture, which may transfer to floors.

Check Price on Amazon →
#3
Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Pet Wound and Skin Care
Best for Tear Stain Prevention

Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Pet Wound and Skin Care

View on Amazon

While not a traditional balm, this spray helps keep paws clean and free from bacteria that can cause staining. It's non-toxic and safe for daily use. However, it's a liquid, not a balm, so application may be less convenient.

Check Price on Amazon →
#4
Natural Dog Company Snout Soother
Best for Dry Paws

Natural Dog Company Snout Soother

View on Amazon

Formulated with organic ingredients like coconut oil and vitamin E, this balm repairs dry, cracked paws. It helps reduce licking and subsequent tear stains. The main trade-off is its higher price point.

Check Price on Amazon →
#5
Paw Soother by Natural Dog Company
Best Budget

Paw Soother by Natural Dog Company

View on Amazon

A budget-friendly option that still contains natural ingredients like shea butter and jojoba oil. It moisturizes effectively and is free from harsh chemicals. However, it may require more frequent application.

Check Price on Amazon →
Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Ingredients

Look for natural, dog-safe ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E. Avoid artificial fragrances, parabens, and dyes.

02

Moisturizing Power

A good balm should deeply moisturize to prevent dry, cracked paws that cause licking and tear stains.

03

Safety if Ingested

Dogs often lick their paws, so choose a balm that is non-toxic and safe if ingested in small amounts.

04

Texture and Absorption

Balms that absorb quickly without leaving a greasy residue are more comfortable for dogs and less messy for owners.

05

Brand Reputation

Opt for reputable brands with positive customer feedback and transparent ingredient sourcing.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

How to Apply Paw Balm

Clean paws first with a damp cloth. Apply a small amount of balm to each paw, massaging it into the pads and between toes. Allow a few minutes for absorption before letting your dog walk around.

Frequency of Application

Apply balm once or twice daily, especially after walks or baths. For severe dryness, you can apply up to three times a day. Reduce frequency as paws improve.

Precautions

Always check the ingredient list for potential allergens. If your dog shows signs of irritation, discontinue use and consult a veterinarian. Store balm in a cool, dry place.

Pro tip

Apply paw balm right before bedtime so it has time to absorb without your dog walking on surfaces.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I apply paw balm for tear stains?
Apply paw balm once or twice daily, especially after walks or baths. Consistent use helps maintain moisture and reduces licking, which can minimize tear stains. If your dog's paws are very dry, you can apply up to three times a day. Monitor your dog's response and adjust frequency as needed.
Can paw balm really help with tear stains?
Yes, paw balm can help indirectly. Tear stains are often caused by excessive tearing, which may result from paw irritation. By moisturizing and protecting paws, balm reduces the urge to lick, thereby decreasing tear production. However, tear stains can also be due to allergies or health issues, so consult a vet if persistent.
What ingredients should I avoid in a paw balm?
Avoid artificial fragrances, dyes, parabens, and harsh chemicals like alcohol or sulfates. These can irritate sensitive skin and worsen tear stains. Stick to natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, beeswax, and vitamin E. Always check the label for dog-safe formulations.
Is it safe if my dog licks the paw balm?
Most natural paw balms are safe if ingested in small amounts, but it's best to choose balms labeled as non-toxic. Ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil are generally safe. However, excessive licking can reduce effectiveness, so distract your dog after application until the balm absorbs.
Can I use human lotion on my dog's paws?
No, human lotions are not recommended. They often contain ingredients like fragrances, dyes, and moisturizers that are not safe for dogs, and they may have a different pH. Always use a product specifically formulated for dogs to avoid irritation or toxicity.
How do I clean tear stains on my dog's face?
Use a damp cloth or dog-safe wipe to gently clean the area around the eyes daily. You can also use a tear stain remover solution recommended by your vet. Keeping the face dry and clean helps prevent staining. Address underlying causes like paw irritation with balm.
What other grooming products help with tear stains?
In addition to paw balm, consider using a gentle dog shampoo with natural ingredients, a soft brush to remove debris, and a tear stain wipe. Some owners find that adding a probiotic supplement to the diet helps reduce staining. Always choose products suited to your dog's skin type.
How long does it take to see results from paw balm?
Results vary, but you may notice reduced paw licking within a few days. Tear stain improvement can take several weeks as the fur grows out. Consistency is key. If you don't see improvement after a month, consult your vet to rule out other causes.
Can I use paw balm on other parts of my dog's body?
Yes, paw balm can be used on dry areas like elbows or nose. However, it's formulated for paws, so it may be too thick for larger areas. For general moisturizing, use a dog-specific lotion. Always patch test a small area first.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your pet's diet or care routine, especially if your pet has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.