The Best Way to Clean Dog Tear Stains

Most dog breeds, whether they are a pure white Bichon Frise or a black Great Dane, suffer from tear stains under the eye. These stains are generally caused by allergies, an injury to the eye, a food sensitivity or because the breed is prone to the issue. A dog that is suddenly having an issue with excessive tear staining should be seen by a veterinarian. There could be an underlying problem causing the tearing, such as an inflamed tear duct or an ear infection.

Things You'll Need

  • Hand soap
  • Water
  • 1 cup magnesium hydroxide
  • 1 cup hydrogen peroxide
  • Corn starch
  • Rubber gloves
  • Dog treat or bone
  • Dog conditioning shampoo
  • Soft cloth
  • Soft-bristled toothbrush
  • Cotton balls

Instructions

  1. Remove Tear Stains

    • 1

      Wash your hands with soap and water.

    • 2

      Mix 1 cup of magnesium hydroxide and 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide. Magnesium hydroxide is the active ingredient in over-the-counter irritable bowel syndrome products such as Milk of Magnesia.

    • 3

      Add 1/4 cup of corn starch into the mixture. Stir and continue to add small amounts of the corn starch until a paste has been formed.

    • 4

      With gloved hands, place a few ounces of the paste under the dog̵7;s eye at bedtime. Work the paste into the tear-stained area. Repeat on the other under-eye area. If the dog resists, distract him with a dog treat or a bone.

    • 5

      Leave the paste on the dog̵7;s stained fur overnight. Rinse the paste from the dog̵7;s tear-stained fur with water and wash the area with a conditioning dog shampoo, which can be purchased at pet supply stores. Rinse the shampoo well.

    • 6

      Repeat this process every night for seven days, or until the tear stains have been removed.

    Prevent Tear Stains

    • 7

      Wash your hands soap and water.

    • 8

      Wipe away any moisture accumulation under the dog̵7;s eyes with a soft cloth that has been soaked in plain water. Avoid getting water directly into the dog̵7;s eyes.

    • 9

      Remove any debris or buildup under the eye with a soft-bristled toothbrush that has been moistened with plain water.

    • 10

      Dry the area under the eyes with a cotton ball. Repeat this process on the other eye.