I know! Those pesky tear stains can really put a damper on our Maltese, white, fluffy, pristine appearance. Fear not my friend, because I’ve got you covered with some tried and true methods for banishing those tear stains (or at least improving the appearance) and bringing back the sparkle in your Maltese’s eyes!
Why Do Maltese Get Tear Stains?
Have you ever wondered why? Before we dive into the solutions, let’s understand why our precious pups develop those tear stains in the first place. Maltese, with their adorable squishy faces and large eyes, are prone to excessive tearing due to their shallow eye sockets and fine hair around their eyes. This excessive tearing, combined with the moisture and bacteria, can lead to unsightly reddish-brown stains on their fur. Some people say it’s genetics, others attribute these to food and diet. From my own experience, I think it’s a mix of both. Some dogs are more prone to them than others but with the proper care and diet we can eliminate or reduce them significantly.
Benefits of Removing Tear Stains
You may not care if your Maltese have brownish, yellowish marks on their face, but before we get into the nitty-gritty of removal methods, let’s talk about why it’s important to tackle those tear stains head-on:
- Improved Aesthetics: Let’s be honest, tear stains detract from our Maltese’s natural beauty. Removing them will enhance their appearance and keep them looking their best.
- Prevention of Skin Irritation: Excessive tearing can lead to skin irritation and discomfort for our furry friends. By removing tear stains, we can help prevent potential skin issues and keep our Maltese comfortable.
- Enhanced Bonding: Regular grooming sessions, including tear stain removal, provide an opportunity for bonding with our pups. It’s a chance to show them love and care while keeping them healthy and happy.
Home Remedies for Removing Tear Stains
Now, let’s explore some home remedies for banishing those tear stains. Each method has its pros and cons, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for you and your Maltese.
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Dietary Supplements | – Easy to administer – Promotes overall health – Can prevent tear staining | – Results may take time to see – Not suitable for all dogs – May not work for severe stains |
| Topical Solutions | – Immediate results – Easy to find in pet stores – Can be combined with other methods | – Requires consistent application – Some products may contain chemicals – May cause irritation to sensitive skin |
| Natural Remedies | – Gentle on sensitive skin – Safe for regular use – Affordable and DIY options | – Results may vary – Requires consistency in application – May not be as effective as other methods |
When it comes to cleaning tear stains from your Maltese’s eyes at home, you may choose one method or a combination of them. But I have outlined below what I normally do and I see good results (when I do it consistently — so routine is key here!!). Here are my personal tips:
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need handy:
- Cotton balls or pads (I prefer pads because they’re thicker)
- Clean, warm water (not hot! but cold water won’t work as good as warm water does.)
- Mild dog shampoo or tear stain remover solution (optional)
- Towel or soft cloth
2. Prepare Your Maltese
Start by gently holding your Maltese in a comfortable position (Luna prefers to stand up while Sol prefers to be on my lap), ensuring they feel safe and relaxed. You may want to enlist the help of a family member to hold your pup steady during the cleaning process in the first few times.
3. Wet or Dry Method?
Now, let’s discuss the two main methods for cleaning tear stains:
a) Wet Method:
- Moisten a cotton ball or pad with clean, warm water.
- Gently wipe the area around your Maltese’s eyes, being careful not to apply too much pressure.
- Repeat as needed until the tear stains are removed.
- Pat the area dry with a towel or soft cloth (make sure not to leave their face wet and they tend to worsen if wet for too long — Not sure why but they do for mine.)
b) Dry Method (I don’t recommend it as my Maltese didn’t like it, and I didn’t think it cleaned the area well, but some people prefer this):
- Use a dry cotton ball or pad to gently dab at the tear stains, avoiding any harsh rubbing.
- Continue dabbing until the stains are lifted.
- If necessary, change the cotton ball a few times to ensure thorough cleaning.
4. Use of Solutions
If you prefer to use a solution for extra cleaning power, you can:
- Dilute a small amount of mild dog shampoo or tear stain remover solution in warm water.
- Dip a cotton ball or pad into the solution and gently wipe the stained area.
- Repeat as needed until the stains are removed.
- Always be cautious when using any solution near your Maltese’s eyes, and avoid getting it directly into their eyes. Follow the instructions on the product bottle every time.
5. Frequency of Cleaning
How often should you clean your Maltese’s tear stains? The frequency may vary depending on your pup’s individual needs and the severity of the staining. I wish I did it everyday, but I do usually 2-3 times a week, so almost every other day. As a general guideline:
- Daily Maintenance: A quick wipe with a moistened cotton ball or pad can help prevent buildup and keep tear stains at bay.
- Weekly Deep Cleaning: For more stubborn stains, you may want to perform a more thorough cleaning once a week using a mild solution.
6. Monitor for Irritation
Throughout the cleaning process, pay close attention to your Maltese’s reaction. If they show any signs of discomfort or irritation, stop immediately and consult with your veterinarian. It’s essential to prioritize your pup’s comfort and well-being above all else.
And that’s it!!!
Please understand that tear stains are a common issue among Maltese, so you’re not on this alone! But with the right approach, we can easily tackle them from the comfort of our own homes. Whether you opt for dietary supplements, topical solutions, or natural remedies, consistency is key. Remember, each pup is unique, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. With patience and perseverance, those tear stains will be a thing of the past, leaving your Maltese with bright, beautiful eyes that truly sparkle!
I hope you found these tips helpful, and if you have any other questions or suggestions, feel free to share them with me! I will love hearing from you. Until next time, keep loving and pampering your Maltese babies!
