Why Cavoodles Get Tear Stains (and How to Manage Them Safely)

If you’ve ever owned a Cavoodle, you’ve probably noticed those rusty-brown streaks under their eyes. They are commmonly known as tear stains and while some think they are just a cosmetic issue, they can actually signal underlying causes that are important to understand and address.

I’ve spoken to many cavoodles mums about this concern and my girls Bambi & Daisy get them occasionally too so, I totally relate to this issue.

That’s why I wanted to address the problem in an article so you can understand why your Cavoodle might be prone to tear stains, why it’s important to manage them, what you can do to minimise them, and safe ways to keep your dog’s face clean and healthy.

Why Do Cavoodles Get Tear Stains?

Tear stains occur when excess tears spill over from the eyes and soak into the fur around the muzzle and cheeks. Over time, these tears can cause discoloration,usually reddish-brown, due to a compound called porphyrin. Porphyrins are naturally found in tears and saliva, and when exposed to light, they cause staining.

Here are the main reasons Cavoodles are particularly susceptible:

1. Facial Structure

Cavoodles inherit their facial features from both Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles. Their shorter snouts, shallow eye sockets, and close-set eyes can make it harder for tears to drain properly into the tear ducts. This leads to more frequent tear overflow.

2. Tear Duct Blockages

Some Cavoodles have narrow or partially blocked tear ducts, which prevent proper drainage. Instead of flowing into the nasal passages, tears spill out onto the face.

3. Hair Around the Eyes

We love the fluffy, curly Cavoodle coat but hair growing too close to the eyes can irritate them. Constant irritation makes the eyes water more, increasing tear staining.

4. Allergies and Sensitivities

Food intolerances, environmental allergies, or even grooming products with harsh ingredients can trigger watery eyes. Cavoodles are known to have sensitive skin and digestive systems, so this can be a common cause.

5. Eye Infections or Irritation

Bacterial infections, ingrown eyelashes, or foreign particles like dust can irritate the eyes, leading to excessive tearing.

6. Genetics

Unfortunately, some Cavoodles are simply more genetically predisposed to tear staining. 

Why You Need to Address Tear Stains

It’s tempting to brush tear stains off as a “cosmetic” problem but ignoring them can lead to bigger issues. Here’s why it matters:

1. Potential Health Concerns

Constant tearing may be a sign of an underlying condition such as eye infections, blocked ducts, or allergies. Leaving it unchecked could mean your Cavoodle is uncomfortable or in pain.

2. Bacterial and Yeast Growth

Moist fur is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. This can cause skin irritation, unpleasant odours, and secondary infections that are painful and harder to treat.

3. Comfort for Your Dog

Tear-stained fur can get crusty or sticky, which irritates the skin and makes your dog uncomfortable. Keeping the area clean helps your Cavoodle feel better.

4. Hygiene and Appearance

While health is the main concern, many owners do want their Cavoodle looking bright-eyed and fluffy. Tear stains can make a dog look tired or unkempt. (it is not just about looks peeps)

What You Can Do to Prevent or Minimise Tear Stains

While you can’t always eliminate tear stains completely, there are steps you can take to reduce them significantly.

1. Keep the Eye Area Trimmed

Ask your groomer to carefully trim the hair around your Cavoodle’s eyes to prevent fur from irritating them. Regular grooming reduces tear production caused by irritation. 

2. Improve Diet and Hydration

A high-quality diet with limited fillers, preservatives, and artificial colours can make a huge difference. Some Cavoodles are sensitive to grains or chicken, and switching protein sources may help. Always ensure fresh, filtered water is available, minerals in tap water can sometimes contribute to staining.

3. Address Allergies

If you suspect allergies are the cause, talk to your vet about allergy testing or elimination diets. Keeping your dog’s environment clean and free from dust, pollen, and strong fragrances can also help.

4. Regular Vet Check-Ups

It’s important to rule out eye infections, blocked tear ducts, or other health conditions. A vet can flush tear ducts if necessary or recommend treatment for infections or inflammation.

5. Choose Gentle Grooming Products

Harsh shampoos or sprays near the eyes can cause irritation. Opt for dog-safe, tearless shampoos designed for sensitive skin like THESE

How to Clean Tear Stains Safely

Cleaning your Cavoodle’s tear stains is a regular grooming habit you’ll need to keep up with. Here are safe, effective methods:

1. Daily Wiping

Use a soft, damp cloth or pet-safe eye wipes to gently clean under the eyes. Daily cleaning prevents build-up and keeps the area dry. Avoid using baby wipes or products with alcohol, as they can irritate the skin.

2. Warm Water and Cotton Pads

Dip a cotton pad in warm (not hot) water and carefully wipe away any discharge. This is especially helpful if there is crust around the eyes. Always use a fresh pad for each eye to avoid spreading bacteria.

3. Natural Solutions

Some owners use diluted chamomile tea or saline solution to gently clean the area. Both have soothing properties but should be used with care. Always test a small area first to ensure no irritation occurs.

4. Specialised Tear Stain Products

There are lots of products in the market claiming to be safe for dogs but do your research and look for ones free from bleach or harsh chemicals. These are designed to break down the porphyrin build-up and are often safe for long-term use.

5. Keep the Area Dry

After cleaning, make sure the area under the eyes is dry. Moisture encourages staining and bacterial growth.

Long-Term Management

Tear stains aren’t usually solved with a quick fix, it’s about consistent care. For Cavoodle owners, this means:

• Routine cleaning (daily or every other day)
  

• Consistent grooming to keep fur away from the eyes
  

• Regular vet visits to rule out medical issues
  

• Adjusting diet and water to support overall health
  
  

It may take weeks to see improvement, especially if the staining is longstanding. Be patient during the process.

Tear stains are a common challenge for us Cavoodle parents, but they don’t have to be an ongoing battle. By understanding the causes, addressing underlying issues, and maintaining a regular cleaning routine, you can keep your cavoodle comfy, healthy, and looking their absolutely gorgeous best.

Most importantly, never ignore persistent or worsening tear stains. They might seem like a small cosmetic issue, but they can be a sign of something bigger. A happy, healthy Cavoodle is one whose bright eyes shine through, without the discomfort of tear-stained fur.