How to Get Rid of Tear Stains on White Dogs

Tear stains--the brown, streaky stains in the corners of and under some dogs' eyes--are caused by pigment, yeast and bacteria buildup. These stains are most obvious on white dogs, like Maltese. Wipe away tear stains using at-home techniques and preventive care to keep your white dog looking its best.

Things You'll Need

  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Corn starch
  • Wash cloth
  • Gauze pad
  • Comb
  • Scissors
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wipe away excess buildup near the dog's eyes carefully with a warm, damp wash cloth.

    • 2

      Mix equal volumes of cornstarch and hydrogen peroxide to make a paste. Hydrogen peroxide blanches the dark brown stains that white dogs develop near their tear ducts.

    • 3

      Rub the paste into the tear stains, beginning near the tear ducts and moving gently down the edges of the eyes. Wipe away the paste.

    • 4

      Comb out the hair near your dog's eyes. This not only smooths hair away from your dog's eyes, helping prevent eye irritation and watering, but also helps break up residue collecting near the eyes.

    • 5
      Trim too-long hairs near your dog's eyes.

      Trim long hairs near your dog's eyes. Doing so will help prevent irritation and watering, which is one causes of tear stains.