Remove Tear Stains on Maltese: The Complete Guide
Unfortunately, as beautiful as Maltese dogs are, they're one of the breeds most prone to tear stains. The good news? You can reduce and even eliminate tear stains completely with the right approach.
In this guide, you'll discover what causes tear stains in Maltese dogs and the proven 3-step system to remove them in just 7-10 days.
What Are Tear Stains on Dogs?
Tear stains (also called Epiphora) are those unsightly light brown, yellow, or reddish-brown marks that appear below your Maltese's eyes. They're not just cosmetic—they're caused by bacteria and yeast that grow deep into the hair shaft and onto the skin.
Maltese are particularly susceptible because of their short muzzles and narrow eyes, which can lead to blocked tear ducts. The stains come from iron-containing molecules called porphyrins, produced when your dog's body breaks down red blood cells.
The challenge: These stains penetrate deep into the fur, making them difficult to remove with regular cleaning alone.
Why Does My Maltese Have Tear Stains?
While tear stains are common in this breed, understanding the cause helps you address the root problem:
Allergies: The #1 cause of excessive tearing. Environmental allergens like grasses, pollen, and dust mites irritate the eyes and trigger tear production.
Eye Infections: Conditions like conjunctivitis cause excessive tearing that leads to staining.
Poor Nutrition: Low-quality diets often lead to excess mucus accumulation, causing runny eyes and staining.
Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction: When tears can't drain properly through the nose, they overflow onto the face. This condition may require veterinary intervention.
Harsh Shampoos and Grooming Products: Many pet owners don't realize that the shampoo they use can actually contribute to tear stains. Here's how:
Eye Irritation: When shampoo gets into your dog's eyes during bathing, it causes irritation and excessive tearing, leading to more staining. Even getting near your dog's eye, which is particularly sensitive, can be irritating and cause your dog to tear. Remember, most shampoos have irritants in them.
pH Imbalance: Shampoos with the wrong pH for dogs can disrupt the skin's natural barrier, leading to irritation and excessive tearing. Dog skin has a pH of 6.2-7.4 (slightly acidic to neutral), while their tears and eye surface are around pH 7.0-7.5. However, many mass-market dog shampoos have a pH of 8.0-10.0 or higher—far too alkaline for your Maltese's delicate skin and eyes. For tear-prone breeds like Maltese, you need a pH-balanced shampoo (6.5-7.5) that's specifically formulated for the face area. This is why using a properly formulated, tearless face shampoo is essential for both preventing and treating tear stains.
Chemical Sensitivities: Ingredients like sulfates, parabens, and artificial dyes can irritate sensitive skin around the eyes, causing inflammation and tearing.
Important: If tear stains appear suddenly or are accompanied by discharge, redness, or your dog pawing at their eyes, consult your veterinarian to rule out infections or other health issues.
How to Remove Tear Stains from Maltese: The 3-Step System
Removing existing tear stains requires a systematic approach. Here's the proven method that works in 7-10 days:
Step 1: Gentle Daily Cleansing
Start by gently wiping away debris and discharge with a clean, damp cloth and warm water. Never use harsh soaps or chemicals near your pet's eyes—they can damage delicate skin and membranes.
For best results, use PawPurity Tear Stain Remover Face Shampoo, which contains aloe vera, vitamin E, and nourishing oils. It's safe for daily use and won't irritate your dog's eyes. If your pup has light tear stains, just this shampoo may be enough to keep stains under control.
Pro tip: If your Maltese has thick fur around the eyes, brush it away first to better access the stained hair shaft. Always pat dry immediately after wiping to prevent moisture buildup.
Step 2: Deep Stain Treatment
For heavy staining, daily wiping or using the face shampoo alone won't be enough. You need a treatment that penetrates deep into the hair shaft to break down the bacteria and yeast causing the discoloration.
The PawPurity Tear Stain Remover Complete Care Kit is specifically designed to eliminate stubborn tear stains in 7-10 days when used as directed. Unlike temporary cover-ups, this is a true treatment that addresses the root cause.
The Complete Kit Includes:
- Tearless Foaming Face Shampoo – Gently cleanses and prepares the area
- Tear Stain Solution – Penetrates deep to break down stains with boric acid and witch hazel
- Absorbent Powder – Prevents new tears from seeping through and breeding bacteria
How to Use the Kit (2x Daily for 7-10 Days):
Morning & Evening Routine:
#1. Apply the tearless foaming Face Shampoo onto a wet washcloth. Let your pet run and play for 5 minutes, then use the clean end to wipe away eye boogers and debris.
#2. Apply the Tear Stain Solution to a lint-free application pad. Rub the stained area, getting as close to the skin as possible. The witch hazel soothes irritation while the formula breaks down stains.
#3. Using your finger or small makeup brush, pack the powder toward the nose (in the opposite direction of the hair shaft). Leave it on—it absorbs bacteria and yeast while preventing new tears from staining.
Critical: Consistency is key. This process MUST be done twice daily for approximately two weeks to achieve complete stain removal. After that, it's simple maintenance. Remember: moisture breeds bacteria and fungi.
Get the Tear Stain Remover Kit →
Step 3: Maintenance & Prevention
Once stains are removed, keep them away with proper daily care (see prevention tips below).
Other Treatment Options
Over-the-Counter Chewables
Some pet owners try chewable supplements containing natural enzymes and bacteria-fighting ingredients. While these may help, results vary, and they often take longer to work than topical treatments.
Before trying any supplement: Read instructions carefully and consult your vet. Stop immediately if you notice irritation or discomfort.
For faster, more reliable results, we recommend PawPurity tear stain kits, as they are a safe natural remedy with glowing reviews.
When to See Your Vet
If tear stains persist despite consistent treatment, your veterinarian may recommend:
- Antibiotics for underlying infections
- Topical steroids to reduce inflammation
- Dietary changes or supplements
- Surgery (only in severe cases of duct obstruction)
Remember: Removing tear stains requires patience and dedication, but the results are worth it!
5 Tips to Prevent Tear Stains in Maltese Dogs
1. Daily Eye Cleaning: Wipe away discharge daily with PawPurity's Tear Stain Face Shampoo for gentle, non-irritating daily maintenance.
2. Optimize Nutrition: Feed a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation and tear production. Avoid foods with artificial dyes and fillers.
3. Regular Grooming: If possible, trim hair around the eyes regularly to prevent fur from collecting moisture and becoming a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus. Make sure to keep the area dry.
4. Use the Right Shampoo: Bathe your Maltese regularly with a gentle shampoo designed for sensitive skin. Avoid products with harsh chemicals, sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances that can irritate eyes and trigger excessive tearing. PawPurity recommends Biogreen Enriched Shampoo, with 20 plants and rich in vitamins and premium oils designed to eliminate irritation and skin issues while giving your Maltese a great cleanse.
5. Address Chronic Staining: For persistent tear stains, use a proven treatment like PawPurity Tear Stain Remover COMPLETE CARE KIT, designed specifically for dogs with stubborn or recurring stains.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maltese Tear Stains
How long does it take to remove tear stains from a Maltese?
With consistent treatment using a complete tear stain removal system, you can typically see significant improvement in 7-10 days. However, severe staining may take up to 2 weeks of twice-daily treatment. The key is consistency—you must follow the routine morning and evening without skipping days.
Are tear stains painful for my Maltese?
Tear stains themselves aren't painful, but the underlying causes can be uncomfortable. If your Maltese has eye irritation, infections, or allergies causing the excessive tearing, they may experience discomfort. The bacteria and yeast growth in the stained fur can also cause itching and irritation. If your dog is pawing at their eyes or showing signs of discomfort, consult your veterinarian.
Can I use human products to remove tear stains?
No, you should never use human products near your dog's eyes. Human shampoos and cleansers have a pH of 4.5-5.5, which is too acidic for dogs (pH 6.2-7.4) and can cause irritation and more tearing. Always use products specifically formulated for dogs with the proper pH balance and tearless formulas.
Why do white dogs like Maltese get tear stains more than other breeds?
All dogs produce porphyrins (the iron-containing molecules that cause staining), but tear stains are simply more visible on white and light-colored dogs like Maltese. Additionally, Maltese have short muzzles and narrow eyes that can lead to blocked tear ducts, making them more prone to excessive tearing and staining.
Will changing my Maltese's diet help with tear stains?
Yes, diet can play a role. Low-quality foods with artificial dyes, fillers, and allergens can contribute to excessive tearing. Switching to a high-quality diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and tear production. However, dietary changes alone usually aren't enough—you'll still need topical treatment to remove existing stains.
Can tear stains come back after treatment?
Yes, tear stains can return if you don't maintain proper daily care. Once you've removed the stains, continue with daily eye cleaning using a gentle face shampoo, keep the area dry, and address any underlying causes like allergies or poor nutrition. Regular maintenance prevents new stains from forming.
Is it safe to use tear stain products on puppies?
It depends on the product and the puppy's age. Natural, gentle products like PawPurity's tearless face shampoo are safe for puppies. However, always check product labels for age recommendations and consult your veterinarian before using any treatment on very young puppies.
Do I need to trim the stained fur?
Trimming can help, especially if the staining is severe and the fur is heavily matted with bacteria and yeast. However, with proper treatment, you can usually remove stains without cutting the fur. Regular trimming around the eyes does help prevent future staining by reducing moisture accumulation.
Keep Your Maltese Looking Their Best
Tear stains don't have to be a permanent problem for your beautiful Maltese. With the right 3-step system and consistent care, you can eliminate existing stains in just 7-10 days and keep them from returning.
Ready to say goodbye to tear stains? PawPurity Tear Stain Remover Complete Care Kit includes everything you need for complete stain removal—naturally and safely.
Shop Tear Stain Remover Complete Care Kit →
Frequently Asked Questions About Maltese Tear Stains
How long does it take to remove tear stains from a Maltese?
With consistent use of PawPurity's complete tear stain removal system, you can typically see significant improvement and for most, elimination of stains, in 7-10 days. However, severe staining may take up to 2 weeks of twice-daily treatment. The key is consistency—you must follow the routine morning and evening without skipping days.
Are tear stains painful for my Maltese?
Tear stains themselves aren't painful, but the underlying causes can be uncomfortable. If your Maltese has eye irritation, infections, or allergies causing the excessive tearing, they may experience discomfort. The bacteria and yeast growth in the stained fur can also cause itching and irritation. If your dog is pawing at their eyes or showing signs of discomfort, consult your veterinarian.
Can I use human products to remove tear stains?
No, you should never use human products near your dog's eyes. Human shampoos and cleansers have a pH of 4.5-5.5, which is too acidic for dogs (pH 6.2-7.4) and can cause irritation and more tearing. Always use products specifically formulated for dogs with the proper pH balance and tearless formulas.
Why do white dogs like Maltese get tear stains more than other breeds?
All dogs produce porphyrins (the iron-containing molecules that cause staining), but tear stains are simply more visible on white and light-colored dogs like Maltese. Additionally, Maltese have short muzzles and narrow eyes that can lead to blocked tear ducts, making them more prone to excessive tearing and staining.
Will changing my Maltese's diet help with tear stains?
Yes, diet can play a role. Low-quality foods with artificial dyes, fillers, and allergens can contribute to excessive tearing. Switching to a high-quality diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and tear production. However, dietary changes alone usually aren't enough—you'll still need topical treatment to remove existing stains.
Can tear stains come back after treatment?
Yes, tear stains can return if you don't maintain proper daily care. Once you've removed the stains, continue with daily eye cleaning using a gentle face shampoo, keep the area dry, and address any underlying causes like allergies or poor nutrition. Regular maintenance prevents new stains from forming.
Is it safe to use tear stain products on puppies?
It depends on the product and the puppy's age. Natural, gentle products like PawPurity's tearless face shampoo are safe for puppies. However, always check product labels for age recommendations and consult your veterinarian before using any treatment on very young puppies.
Do I need to trim the stained fur?
Trimming can help, especially if the staining is severe and the fur is heavily matted with bacteria and yeast. However, with proper treatment, you can usually remove stains without cutting the fur. Regular trimming around the eyes does help prevent future staining by reducing moisture accumulation.
Shop Tear Stain Remover Complete Care Kit →
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