How to Remove Tear Stains From an American Bulldog

Tear stains on an American bulldog's face appear because hair beneath the eyes remains perpetually wet and collects bacteria and dirt. Tear stains appear brownish because the bacteria that collects in the hair is red yeast, or Ptyrosporin bacteria. These tear stains can be especially apparent on dogs that have light-colored coats, but dogs with all coat colors can develop tear stains. Unless regularly removed, tear stains can become infected. Dogs with a lot of facial wrinkles, such as American bulldogs, are even more prone to infections from tear stains.

Things You'll Need

  • Commercial tear stain remover
  • Cotton balls
  • Talcum powder
  • Diaper rash ointment
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Instructions

  1. Treating Tear Stains

    • 1

      Take your dog to the veterinarian first to make sure it doesn't have blocked tear ducts or any other reason for excessive tearing. Parasites and diet can also contribute to excessive tearing.

    • 2

      Buy several brands of commercial tear stain removers to find out which will work best on your dog. Follow the directions provided on each remover, and clean the tear stains at least once a week. Make sure you get the remover deep into all of the wrinkles on the dog's face with the cotton balls. The important thing is to get out all of the dirt and bacteria trapped in the wrinkles.

    • 3

      Dry the wet areas with talcum powder so that the wrinkles can't continue to collect dirt and bacteria.

    • 4

      Apply the diaper rash ointment to help the area stay dry and so that the hair will start growing back. Make sure your dog isn't rubbing or licking the ointment off, and reapply it often.