Mary Allen
Understanding the cause of brown stains on dogs
Brown stains on dogs are a common issue that many pet owners face. The stains can appear on various parts of the dog’s body, including the eyes, mouth, paws, and fur. The primary cause of these stains is excessive tear production, which is more common in certain breeds. The tears contain a pigment called porphyrin, which can cause brown stains when it comes into contact with the fur.
Examining the different types of brown stains
There are two types of brown stains that can appear on dogs – epiphora-related stains and saliva-related stains. Epiphora-related stains are caused by excessive tear production, which leads to staining around the eyes. Saliva-related stains, on the other hand, are caused by excessive licking or drooling, which can lead to staining on the fur around the mouth.
Factors that contribute to brown stains on dogs
Several factors can contribute to the formation of brown stains on dogs. These include genetics, allergies, infections, and poor grooming habits. Certain breeds, such as Shih Tzus and Poodles, are more prone to excessive tear production and, therefore, more likely to develop brown stains. Allergies and infections can also cause excessive tearing or saliva production, leading to staining. Poor grooming habits, such as not wiping the dog’s face after eating or drinking, can also contribute to the formation of brown stains.