A few of you on group have asked recently about eye health and tear stains so here are a few tips you can keep and refer to that won't get lost like they do on the Facebook group.

Tear stains on chihuahuas and small dogs can be unsightly and can impact on your dog's comfort. Coco suffered from one slightly weepy eye and although we wiped her eyes every day it didn't address the problem. 

If you can take some time and make a commitment to reduce tear stains in a consistent way. Some dogs may have more persistent tear staining but our little chihuahuas definitely do benefit from investing some time into small steps which reduce them considerably.

Filtered water is good for your dogs and your family - it tastes better too! Over a few months you should definitely see the difference. We use the Brita Mantra filter jug but this one is on sale in Argos. The filtered water took about 3 months to make an impact but as Coco's tear stain was minimal it was fast. It may take much longer with a dog with pale coloured fur and bad staining.

http://www.argos.co.uk/product/7247598

Cleanocular drops for cats and dogs are a great choice! Use the lotion specifically for dogs and cats. It is widely available online for a few pounds.

https://www.vetuk.co.uk/eye-products-c-663/cleanocular-eye-lotion-for-cats-and-dogs-100ml-p-34

Eye wipes are a great quick solution and we use them in the mornings to remove sleep, after a walk and especially when we've been on the beach to wipe the sand away. Using wipes won't cure the problem alone. We love Earth Bath natural products for our dogs.

https://www.christiesdirect.com/en/gb/Earthbath-Eye-Wipes/m-2198.aspx?PartnerID=223&utm_source=google&utm_medium=shopping&utm_campaign=UnitedKingdom&gclid=Cj0KCQiAw9nUBRCTARIsAG11eifxwfuPBBcbY-1EvR32e8hI9f6VChBbwlMOdwimcbZx62Jedt7NiscaAj8DEALw_wcB

The cheap alternative to wipes (which can be expensive) is goodly boiled water with a lint free cotton pad to gently wipe the eyes. Use a different paid for each eye to prevent the spread of any infection or bacteria that might be lurking.

Food plays an important part in your dogs eye health and the following foods are particularly good for your little one:

• Blueberries. Contain carotenoids, phytonutrients, and flavonoids.
• Carrots. Contain Vitamin A and beta-carotene.
• Kale. Antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin.
• Broccoli. Beta-carotene.
• Sweet Potatoes. Beta-carotene and anthocyanins. ...
• Eggs. Lutein, sulfur, and cysteine. ...
• Sardines and Salmon. Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA.

Distilled apple cider vinegar can also help.

The Honest Kitchen blog addresses health issues such as hair growing too close to the eye, inward turning eyelids and other issues that are a bit more in depth than the usual situations that most of us face. Its worth a read to pick out the best tips.

https://www.thehonestkitchen.com/blog/what-causes-tear-stains-and-how-to-treat-them/