Maltipoo Tear Stains Prevention and Removal Methods

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Posted Oct 31, 2024

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Maltipoo tear stains can be a real challenge to deal with. Regular grooming is essential to prevent tear stains from forming in the first place.

Maltipoos have a higher risk of tear stains due to their facial structure, which can cause their tears to flow under their eyes and onto their fur.

To prevent tear stains, it's recommended to clean your Maltipoo's face daily with a damp cloth, paying extra attention to the area under their eyes.

Using a gentle dog tear stain remover can also help to prevent stains from forming.

What Causes Maltipoo Tear Stains

Maltipoos, like all dogs, can experience tear stains due to variations in their eyelid structure that cause tears to drain onto their face instead of down the nasolacrimal duct.

This is a common issue in many breeds, not just Maltipoos. In fact, most dogs with tear stains don't have an underlying eye problem.

The characteristic reddish-brown color of dog tear stains is caused by an iron-containing dye molecule called porphyrin. This molecule is excreted in the tears, saliva, and urine of dogs.

Credit: youtube.com, How to Get Rid of Maltipoo Tear Stains

Some Maltipoos may experience excessive tearing due to insufficient drainage of the tear film from the eye, often caused by a blocked tear duct or a deformity that has resulted in poor eyelid function.

However, not all Maltipoos with tear staining have excessive tears. Minor issues like long fur around the eyes or seasonal allergies can also cause tearing and staining.

Here are some potential causes of tear staining in Maltipoos:

  • Ingrown eyelashes
  • Entropion (a condition where the eyelid folds inward, causing skin and lashes to rub on the eyeball)
  • Eye infections
  • Narrow tear ducts or tiny tear duct openings
  • Tear-producing gland abnormalities
  • Glaucoma
  • Teething in puppies
  • Allergies (environmental and/or food)
  • Stress
  • Poor diet
  • Exposure to smoke or other environmental irritants
  • Trauma
  • Medications

Removing and Preventing Stains

Removing and preventing stains on your Maltipoo's adorable face can be a challenge, but don't worry, I've got some tips to help you out.

First, make sure to rule out any underlying medical conditions that might be causing the tear stains. If your vet suspects a medical issue, follow their recommendations for treating the condition and removing the stains.

You can try using over-the-counter eye wipes, eye washes, or other at-home remedies like Optixcare Dog & Cat Eye Cleaning Wipes, Petpost Tear Stain Wipes for Dogs, or a warm washcloth and baby shampoo.

Credit: youtube.com, HOW TO Naturally Treat TEAR STAINS❗️ALL DOG OWNERS NEED TO KNOW THIS ❗️

Keep the hair around your Maltipoo's eyes trimmed short to prevent staining. You can also use a slightly damp washcloth or cotton ball to clean the area around the eyes at least twice every day.

Some supplements like Angels' Eyes Natural Chicken Flavored Soft Chew Tear Stain Supplement for Dogs & Cats, NaturVet Tear Stain Plus Lutein Soft Chews Supplement for Cats & Dogs, or VetClassics Tear Stain Soft Chews Dog & Cat Supplement claim to reduce tear staining by reducing porphyrin in the tears.

To prevent tear stains, you can try using a stainless steel bowl for your Maltipoo's food and water, and give them bottled spring or filtered water instead of tap water. You can also try adding probiotics to their diet, which may help reduce tear staining.

Here are some DIY tear stain solutions you can try:

  • Mix one tablespoon of boric acid powder in a cup of distilled water, let it cool, and apply it to the area around the eye with a cotton pad.
  • Use a mild, pet-friendly shampoo or baby shampoo with warm water to clean around the eyes.

Remember to always wipe away from your Maltipoo's eyes and avoid getting any solution into their eyes. Keep the area clean and dry to prevent yeast infections.

Credit: youtube.com, Tear Stain Solutions: How to Keep Your Maltese Dog's Face Clean and Healthy

Here are some commercial products you can try:

  • Optixcare Dog & Cat Eye Cleaner
  • Spa by TropiClean Lavish Dog Facial Cleanser & Tear Stain Remover
  • Angels' Eyes Gentle Tear Stain Wipes for Dogs

Keep in mind that what works for one Maltipoo may not work for another, so be patient and try different methods until you find what works best for your furry friend.

Health and Hygiene

Maintaining good health and hygiene for your maltipoo is crucial to prevent tear stains. Regular grooming is essential, and it's recommended to bathe your maltipoo every 2-3 weeks to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating in the tear ducts.

Tear stains can be a sign of poor health, so it's essential to monitor your maltipoo's overall health and address any underlying issues. Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.

A clean environment is also vital to preventing tear stains. Regularly clean your maltipoo's food and water bowls, and make sure they have access to fresh water at all times.

Allergies and Stains

Dogs can experience seasonal allergies that lead to watery eyes.

Close Up Photo of Short-coated Brown and White Dog
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Some dogs are sensitive to certain dog food ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions.

Dietary allergies can be caused by a particular ingredient in their food, leading to discomfort and health issues.

Environmental allergies can also affect dogs, often manifesting as watery eyes.

It's essential to identify the cause of your dog's allergy to provide the right treatment and relief.

See what others are reading: Dog Immune

Blocked Ducts and Stains

Blocked ducts can cause tear stains in dogs due to debris getting into the eye or the tear ducts not draining properly, leading to buildup.

If cleaning the area around the eyes doesn't work, a veterinarian can flush the duct using a saline solution. This is a common solution to the problem.

Infections can cause yellow or bloody fluid to pool around a dog's snout, usually accompanied by swollen or irritated eyes. A veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to address the issue.

If your dog develops aggressive staining seemingly out of the blue, contact your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health conditions that require urgent veterinary care.

Here's an interesting read: What Does a Maltipoo Dog Look like

Check Your Drinking Water

Photo of White Puppy
Credit: pexels.com, Photo of White Puppy

Some people are sensitive to the additives and natural minerals in tap water, just like some dogs.

Excessive tearing is a common issue for those who drink tap water that contains additives and natural minerals.

Preventing and Treating Excess Staining

Regular face cleaning is key to preventing tear stains. This can be done by trimming the hair around your Maltipoo's eyes short and using a slightly damp washcloth or cotton ball to clean the area at least twice a day.

Using a contact lens cleaning solution that contains boric acid can also help, but be sure to use it around the eyes, not in them. Some supplements claim to reduce porphyrin in tears, which can lead to less staining, but what works for one pet may not work for another.

Probiotics may also help lessen tear-staining by having a positive effect on your Maltipoo's immune system. However, if your dog is experiencing excessive tearing, it's best to have them evaluated by your veterinarian to check for underlying health issues.

Credit: youtube.com, How To Prevent Tear Stains On Your Dog | Ultimate Pet Care

Some causes of excessive tearing include insufficient drainage of the tear film, blocked tear ducts, or deformities that affect eyelid function. Excessive tears can also be the result of overproduction, but not all dogs with tear staining have this issue.

To treat tear staining, keep your Maltipoo's face clean and dry, and consider using products like eyelid and cleaning pads. You can also try giving your dog probiotics or using tylosin-containing products, but be aware that the effectiveness of these is unpredictable.

Here are some additional tips to help prevent tear stains:

  • Keep your Maltipoo's face clean and dry
  • Use a warm washcloth and baby shampoo to gently clean the face and around the eyes
  • Consider giving your dog probiotics
  • Use contact lens solution to clean around the eyes (but not in them)

By following these tips and being aware of the potential causes of excessive tearing, you can help keep your Maltipoo's face clean and reduce the appearance of tear stains.

Bertha Hauck

Senior Writer

Bertha Hauck is a writer with a passion for sharing knowledge about canine companions. With a focus on Dutch Shepherds and other breeds originating in the Netherlands, Bertha's articles provide in-depth information for dog enthusiasts. Her expertise in herding dogs and FCI breeds has earned her a reputation as a trusted authority in the field.