Tear Stains on a Maltese Dog

Maltese, and other white dogs like Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu, suffer from unattractive tear staining when their facial hair is discolored by moisture wicked from their eyes.

  1. Causes

    • Dogs with genetic predisposition to over-tearing or certain eye structures are more susceptible to tear staining. General health and diet also contribute to tear staining. A yeast or bacterial infection might cause tear staining.

    Expert Insight

    • Color additives in some dog foods may contribute to tear staining. Minerals in drinking water might also be a factor.

    Prevention

    • If food and water are contributing factors to tear staining, these can be corrected. A yeast or other infection should be diagnosed by a veterinarian and treated with medication.

    Solution

    • Various safe tear stain removal solutions are commercially available. A groomer can also remove tear stains from the fur of a Maltese.

    Warning

    • Any tear stain removing solution that contains peroxide or bleach can cause permanent vision damage. Hair can wick liquids back into the eye as well as out of it. If it smells strong to your nose, it is probably too harsh to use close to your Maltese's eyes.

    Other Fact

    • Maltese, and all white dogs, can get stains on any part of their body where fur is exposed to excessive, continuous moisture.