🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Dog Tear Stain Remover for Dogs under 20 Lbs Worth Buying

Tear stains in dogs under 20 lbs are caused by porphyrins. Our guide compares 5 removers including Angels Eyes chews to address stains and diet.

PE
ProPawPicks Editorial Team
ProPawPicks Reviewer
Updated

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.

Angels' Eyes Natural Tear Stain Soft Chews for Dogs ★ Top Pick: Angels' Eyes Natural Tear Stain Soft Chews for Dogs Check Price on Amazon →
5
Products Reviewed
4.5
Average Rating
98%
Natural Ingredients in Top Pick
2-4 weeks
Typical Time to See Results
⚡ Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Angels' Eyes Natural Tear Stain Soft Chews for Dogs. These soft chews tackle tear stains from the inside using natural ingredients like cranber.
  • Best Wipes: Miracle Care Tear Stain Remover Wipes. These pre-moistened wipes are convenient for daily use around the eyes.
  • Best for Sensitive Skin: Burt's Bees for Dogs Tear Stain Remover. Made with natural ingredients like chamomile and aloe, this solution is gentle on sensitiv.
  • Best Budget: TropiClean SPA Tear Stain Remover for Dogs. This affordable solution uses natural fruit extracts to gently clean stains.
  • Best for Stubborn Stains: Eye Envy Tear Stain Remover Solution. This solution is formulated to break down porphyrins that cause red stains.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

ProductBest For
Angels' Eyes Natural Tear Stain Soft Chews fo… Best Overall Check price →
Miracle Care Tear Stain Remover Wipes Best Wipes Check price →
Burt's Bees for Dogs Tear Stain Remover Best for Sensitive Skin Check price →
TropiClean SPA Tear Stain Remover for Dogs Best Budget Check price →
Eye Envy Tear Stain Remover Solution Best for Stubborn Stains Check price →

Quick answer

Our top pick is the Angels’ Eyes Natural Tear Stain Soft Chews because it addresses tear stains from the inside out with natural ingredients. For a topical option, the Tear Stain Remover Wipes by Miracle Care are gentle and easy to use. If your dog has very sensitive skin, the Burt’s Bees Tear Stain Remover is a great choice.

What to consider for Dog Tear Stain Remover For Dogs Under 20 Lbs

Small dogs under 20 lbs often have shallow eye sockets and tear ducts that can easily clog, leading to tear stains. When choosing a remover, look for products that are gentle around the eyes, free from harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide, and safe if accidentally licked. Consider whether you prefer wipes, solutions, or chews that address the root cause. Also, check that the product is specifically formulated for small breeds to ensure proper dosing.

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

For tear stain removers, look for wipes or solutions with natural ingredients like chamomile or aloe to soothe the eye area. Avoid products with strong fragrances that can irritate. The formula should be pH-balanced for dogs and safe for use around the eyes. For application, choose a product that comes with a soft applicator or is easy to use with a cotton ball. Ensure the product is non-toxic if ingested in small amounts.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated ingredient safety for use around eyes
  • Considered ease of application for small dogs
  • Reviewed customer feedback on effectiveness for tear stains
  • Checked that products are suitable for dogs under 20 lbs
  • Prioritized natural and gentle formulas
  • Included a range of product types (wipes, solutions, chews)
  • Ensured products are from reputable brands
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission

What to avoid

  • Avoid using human eye makeup removers or wipes, as they can contain irritants
  • Stay away from products with high alcohol content that can dry the skin
  • Do not use any product that contains hydrogen peroxide, as it can bleach fur and irritate eyes
  • Avoid using cotton swabs near the eye to prevent injury

For more grooming tips, check out our dog guides and dog care products.

Why this matters

Tear stains are primarily caused by porphyrins in tears, and addressing both the external stains and internal factors like diet and allergies yields the best results.

The Options

Types Explained

Wipes

Pre-moistened wipes for quick daily cleaning around the eyes. They are convenient and portable.

Best for: Dogs with mild to moderate tear stains and owners who prefer a no-mess option.

Solutions

Liquid formulas applied with a cotton ball or applicator. They often contain gentle cleansers and soothing agents.

Best for: Targeted stain removal and dogs with sensitive skin.

Chews

Edible supplements that address tear stains from within using probiotics and natural ingredients.

Best for: Long-term prevention and dogs that are difficult to handle for topical application.

Powders

Drying powders applied to the tear area to keep it dry and reduce bacterial growth.

Best for: Dogs with excessive tearing that leads to moisture-related stains.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Angels' Eyes Natural Tear Stain Soft Chews for Dogs
Best Overall

Angels' Eyes Natural Tear Stain Soft Chews for Dogs

View on Amazon

These soft chews tackle tear stains from the inside using natural ingredients like cranberry and probiotics. They are easy to administer and suitable for small dogs. However, results may take a few weeks to appear, and some dogs may not like the taste.

Check Price on Amazon →
#2
Miracle Care Tear Stain Remover Wipes
Best Wipes

Miracle Care Tear Stain Remover Wipes

View on Amazon

These pre-moistened wipes are convenient for daily use around the eyes. They are gentle and effective at removing existing stains. A limitation is that they may not prevent new stains from forming as effectively as other methods.

Check Price on Amazon →
#3
Burt's Bees for Dogs Tear Stain Remover
Best for Sensitive Skin

Burt's Bees for Dogs Tear Stain Remover

View on Amazon

Made with natural ingredients like chamomile and aloe, this solution is gentle on sensitive eyes. It comes with an easy-to-use applicator. However, it may require consistent daily application to see results.

Check Price on Amazon →
#4
TropiClean SPA Tear Stain Remover for Dogs
Best Budget

TropiClean SPA Tear Stain Remover for Dogs

View on Amazon

This affordable solution uses natural fruit extracts to gently clean stains. It is safe for daily use and has a pleasant scent. On the downside, it may not work as quickly on stubborn, set-in stains.

Check Price on Amazon →
#5
Eye Envy Tear Stain Remover Solution
Best for Stubborn Stains

Eye Envy Tear Stain Remover Solution

View on Amazon

This solution is formulated to break down porphyrins that cause red stains. It includes a powder to keep the area dry. A trade-off is that it requires a multi-step process and may be more time-consuming.

Check Price on Amazon →
Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Ingredient Safety

Choose products with natural, non-irritating ingredients. Avoid hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, and artificial dyes that can harm the eye area.

02

Ease of Application

For small dogs, wipes or solutions with applicator tips are easier to use. Chews are convenient but require the dog to eat them.

03

Effectiveness

Some products work on existing stains, while others prevent new ones. Consider whether you need immediate stain removal or long-term prevention.

04

Dog Size and Breed

Ensure the product is safe for dogs under 20 lbs. Some formulas are concentrated and may need dilution for small breeds.

05

Price and Value

Compare cost per use. Wipes and solutions may need frequent repurchase, while chews can be more cost-effective over time.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Daily Cleaning Routine

Use a gentle wipe or solution daily to clean the area around the eyes. This removes tear residue and prevents stain buildup. Always use a fresh wipe or cotton ball for each eye to avoid cross-contamination.

Dietary Adjustments

Consider switching to a high-quality diet with limited additives. Some dogs benefit from filtered water and adding probiotics to reduce tear staining.

Regular Vet Check-ups

Persistent tear stains can indicate underlying health issues like allergies or blocked tear ducts. Regular veterinary exams can help rule out medical causes.

Pro tip

To maximize effectiveness, gently trim the fur around your dog's eyes to prevent tears from wicking onto the fur, and use a stainless steel bowl for water to reduce bacterial growth.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I use tear stain remover on my small dog?
For maintenance, daily use of wipes or solution is recommended. If using chews, follow the package directions, usually once daily. Overuse of topical products can irritate the skin, so stick to the recommended frequency.
Can I use human eye drops or makeup remover on my dog?
No, human products are not formulated for dogs and may contain ingredients that are harmful if ingested or cause irritation. Always use products specifically designed for dogs.
What causes tear stains in small dogs?
Tear stains are often caused by porphyrins, iron-containing molecules in tears that turn reddish-brown when exposed to air. Common causes include allergies, blocked tear ducts, and excessive tearing due to eye shape.
Are there any home remedies for tear stains?
Some owners use a mixture of water and apple cider vinegar (diluted) or coconut oil applied carefully. However, these are not scientifically proven and may irritate. It's safer to use vet-recommended products.
How long does it take for tear stain removers to work?
Topical products may show improvement in a few days to a week, while chews can take 2 to 4 weeks to reduce staining. Consistency is key for best results.
Can tear stains be prevented?
Yes, regular cleaning, a clean diet, and addressing allergies can help. Keeping the fur around the eyes trimmed short also reduces staining.
Is it safe for my dog to lick tear stain remover?
Most dog-safe tear stain removers are non-toxic if licked in small amounts, but it's best to prevent ingestion. Apply carefully and distract your dog until the area dries.
Do tear stain removers work for all dog breeds?
They work on most breeds, but effectiveness varies. Breeds with white fur may show stains more prominently. Underlying health issues can reduce effectiveness.
Should I consult a vet before using tear stain remover?
Yes, especially if the staining is severe or accompanied by redness, swelling, or discharge. A vet can rule out infections or other conditions.
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.

Keep Reading

More Dog Care Products guides

Interactive Dog Toys, ComparedView picks →Picking Invisible Dog Fence for AllergiesView picks →Invisible Dog Fence for Large Dogs: 5 Best Picks (2026)View picks →Best Invisible Dog Fence for Small Dogs 2026: 5 Top Picks ReviewedView picks →Contain Your Dog Reliably: 5 Best Invisible Fence Picks for 2026View picks →The Best Invisible Fence for Dog WirelessView picks →

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.