How to Remove Rust Stains From Maltese Dogs

Maltese dogs frequently develop reddish-brown stains on the skin and hair below the inside corners of their eyes. These are referred to as "rust stains" and are caused by the reaction of a dog's tears with bacteria on a dog's hair and skin. Other breeds have this problem too, but they are especially obvious on the white Maltese dogs. Remove rust stains and use preventative care at home to keep your dog's eyes looking clean and irritation free.

Things You'll Need

  • Cotton balls
  • Scissors
  • Jar with lid
  • Stirrer
  • Boric acid powder
  • Baby powder
  • Milk of magnesia
  • Soft toothbrush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wipe under the dog's eyes with a cotton ball moistened with warm water. Remove any deposits that have built-up.

    • 2

      Check for any long hairs near the eyes. Trim these very carefully to prevent them from irritating the eyes, which leads to watery eyes and more rust stains.

    • 3

      Measure equal parts of boric acid powder and baby powder into a jar and stir in milk of magnesia until it makes a smooth paste. Rub this gently onto the rust stains, beginning near the corner of the eye and working outwards and downwards.

    • 4

      Allow the paste to dry. Leave it on for 15 minutes or longer for best results. Brush the paste off with a soft toothbrush.

    • 5

      Repeat the process daily until the rust stains are gone.