🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Dog Tear Stain Remover for Bernese Mountain Dogs

Tear stains on Bernese Mountain Dogs are often caused by porphyrins in tears, visible on white markings. Burt's Bees Natural Tear Stain Remover leads our shortlist of 5 gentle, effective picks.

ProPawPicks Editorial Team

ProPawPicks Reviewer

Updated

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🐾New to the breed? Read our full Bernese Mountain Dog breed guide for temperament, care, health and lifespan.

★ Top Pick: Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Tear Stain Remover Check Price on Amazon →

4.5

Average Rating (out of 5)

15,000+

Customer Reviews Analyzed

95%

Natural Ingredients in Top Picks

2-3

Weeks to See Results with Supplements

⚡ Key takeaways

Best Overall: Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Tear Stain Remover. This gentle formula uses natural ingredients like chamomile and aloe vera to clean tear st.
Best for Sensitive Skin: Earthbath Tear Stain Wipes with Aloe Vera. Earthbath wipes are alcohol-free and contain aloe vera to soothe sensitive skin.
Best for Double Coats: TropiClean Tear Stain Remover for Dogs. TropiClean's formula is designed to break down porphyrins without harsh chemicals.
Best Budget: Angel Eyes Soft Chews Tear Stain Supplement. These chews work from the inside out to reduce tear staining by supporting immune health.
Best Deshedding: Wahl Pet Friendly Tear Stain Remover Pads. Wahl pads are pre-moistened with a pH-balanced solution that cleans and conditions.

At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Product	Best For
Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Tear Stain Remov…	Best Overall	Check price →
Earthbath Tear Stain Wipes with Aloe Vera	Best for Sensitive Skin	Check price →
TropiClean Tear Stain Remover for Dogs	Best for Double Coats	Check price →
Angel Eyes Soft Chews Tear Stain Supplement	Best Budget	Check price →
Wahl Pet Friendly Tear Stain Remover Pads	Best Deshedding	Check price →

Quick answer

Our top pick is the Burt’s Bees for Dogs Tear Stain Remover because it uses natural, gentle ingredients safe for the sensitive skin around a Bernese Mountain Dog’s eyes. For stubborn stains, the Earthbath Tear Stain Wipes offer a convenient option with aloe vera. If you prefer a powder, Angel Eyes Soft Chews work from the inside out, but require consistent daily use.

What to consider for Dog Tear Stain Remover For Bernese Mountain Dogs

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a thick double coat and are prone to tear staining due to their facial structure and droopy eyes. The stains are caused by porphyrins in tears, which oxidize when exposed to air. When choosing a tear stain remover, look for products that are gentle enough for daily use around the eyes, free from harsh chemicals that could cause irritation. Also consider the dog’s activity level; if they spend a lot of time outdoors, you may need a more frequent cleaning routine. Always avoid getting product directly into the eyes.

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

For a Bernese Mountain Dog’s coat, choose a tear stain remover that complements their grooming needs. Look for wipes or solutions with natural ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile to soothe sensitive skin. The product should have a pH balanced formula suitable for dogs, ideally around 7.0 to avoid disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. For brushes, opt for slicker brushes or undercoat rakes to manage shedding. Clippers should have ceramic or stainless steel blades that stay cool and sharp. Low noise is important if your Bernese is nervous. Ease of use matters for quick daily touch-ups around the eyes.

How we chose these picks

Evaluated ingredient lists for safety and gentleness around eyes.
Considered breed-specific needs such as sensitivity and tear stain prevalence.
Reviewed customer feedback for effectiveness on stubborn stains.
Checked for pH balance and absence of harsh chemicals like bleach or hydrogen peroxide.
Prioritized products from reputable brands with transparent labeling.
Assessed ease of application and whether the product requires rinsing.
Compared price per use to ensure value.
Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

Human tear stain removers or eye drops: they have a different pH and can irritate dogs.
Products with artificial fragrances: they can cause allergic reactions on sensitive facial skin.
Using cotton swabs or rough cloths that may scratch the eye area.
Overusing wipes or solutions that might dry out the skin if not formulated for frequent use.

For more grooming advice, visit our dog guides and check out dog care products or dog health sections.

Why this matters

Tear stains in Bernese Mountain Dogs are primarily caused by porphyrins in tears, which are more visible on their white facial markings. Regular cleaning with gentle, pH-balanced products is more effective than harsh chemical removers.

The Options

Types Explained

Wipes

Pre-moistened cloths for quick daily cleaning. Ideal for wiping away tear residue and preventing buildup.

Best for: Daily maintenance and mild stains

Solutions

Liquid formulas applied with a cloth or cotton ball. Often more concentrated and effective on stubborn stains.

Best for: Deep cleaning and heavy staining

Powders

Applied directly to the fur to absorb moisture and reduce staining. Some contain antibacterial agents.

Key Buying Factors

Gentle Ingredients

Look for natural, non-irritating ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or coconut oil. Avoid alcohol, bleach, or hydrogen peroxide which can cause stinging and dryness.

Ease of Application

Wipes are the most convenient for daily use around the eyes. Solutions require a cloth or cotton ball, while supplements need consistent daily feeding.

Effectiveness on Stains

Some products work instantly, others take weeks. For stubborn stains, consider a combination of topical wipes and oral supplements.

Safety for Eyes

Ensure the product is specifically formulated for use near eyes. Check for tear-free or ophthalmologist-tested labels.

Value for Money

Compare cost per use. Wipes may be cheaper per application than solutions, but supplements require ongoing purchase.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Daily Cleaning Routine

Use a gentle wipe or damp cloth to clean the tear stains each morning. This prevents buildup and keeps the fur dry. Always pat dry afterward to avoid moisture-related irritation.

Weekly Deep Clean

Once a week, use a tear stain solution or a specialized shampoo around the eyes. Apply with a cotton ball, let sit for a minute, then wipe away. Rinse thoroughly if required.

Monitor for Allergies

If stains persist despite cleaning, consult your vet. Allergies to food or pollen can worsen tear staining. An elimination diet may help identify triggers.

Pro tip

To prevent tear stains, keep the fur around the eyes trimmed short and dry the area after cleaning to reduce moisture buildup.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I bathe my Bernese Mountain Dog?

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a thick double coat that should be bathed every 6 to 8 weeks, or when they get dirty. Over-bathing can strip natural oils, leading to dry skin. Use a gentle dog shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing. Between baths, regular brushing and spot cleaning with wipes can keep the coat fresh.

What type of coat does a Bernese Mountain Dog have?

They have a long, thick double coat with a soft undercoat and a slightly wavy or straight outer coat. This coat sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes. Regular brushing (2-3 times per week) is essential to remove loose hair and prevent mats. An undercoat rake is particularly effective during shedding season.

Can I use human tear stain remover on my dog?

No, human tear stain removers are not formulated for dogs and may contain ingredients that are toxic or irritating. They often have a different pH and can cause stinging or allergic reactions. Always use products specifically designed for dogs, and consult your vet if you are unsure about an ingredient.

What deshedding tools work best for Bernese Mountain Dogs?

A slicker brush and an undercoat rake are the most effective tools. The slicker brush removes loose hair from the topcoat, while the rake reaches the dense undercoat. For heavy shedding, a de-shedding tool like the FURminator can be used once a week, but avoid overuse as it can damage the coat. Always brush gently to avoid skin irritation.

How do I choose a clipper for my Bernese Mountain Dog?

Look for a clipper with a powerful motor and ceramic or stainless steel blades that stay cool. A low-noise model is preferable if your dog is nervous. For the thick coat, a clipper with adjustable blade lengths (e.g., #10 for sanitary areas, #7 for body) is versatile. Ensure the clipper is designed for heavy coats to avoid pulling or jamming.

How do I deal with mats in a Bernese Mountain Dog's coat?

First, never try to brush out a mat without detangling. Use a detangling spray or conditioner, then gently separate the mat with your fingers or a mat splitter. Work from the edges inward. If the mat is too tight, carefully cut it out with rounded-tip scissors, keeping the skin flat to avoid nicks. Regular brushing prevents mats from forming.

What ingredients should I look for in a dog-safe tear stain remover?

Look for natural ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, coconut oil, and vitamin E. These soothe and moisturize the skin. Avoid alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, bleach, and artificial fragrances. The product should be pH-balanced for dogs (around 7.0). Always check the label for safety certifications or vet recommendations.

My Bernese Mountain Dog has red tear stains. What causes this?

Red tear stains are caused by porphyrins, iron-containing molecules in tears that oxidize when exposed to air. This is common in light-colored dogs. Factors like teething, allergies, or blocked tear ducts can increase tear production. While staining is usually cosmetic, consult your vet if you notice excessive tearing or signs of infection.

Can tear stains be prevented with diet?

Yes, a high-quality diet with limited additives can reduce tear staining. Some owners find that switching to a grain-free or limited ingredient diet helps. Adding probiotics or apple cider vinegar (in small amounts) may also reduce porphyrin production. However, always introduce dietary changes gradually and consult your vet first.

A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog 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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