Lauryn Dell
Finding those rusty, reddish-brown streaks under your Maltipoo’s eyes can be frustrating, but you aren’t alone.
Because of their Maltese heritage and light-colored coats, Maltipoos are genetically prone to “epiphora”—the medical term for excessive tearing.
While many commercial products contain harsh chemicals, there are highly effective, natural ways to reduce tear stains in Maltipoos that are gentle on their sensitive skin and eyes.
This guide will walk you through the top holistic remedies, dietary shifts, and grooming hacks to keep your pup’s face sparkling white.
Understanding Why Maltipoos Get Tear Stains
Before we jump into the remedies, it helps to know what causes those stubborn marks. The red-brown tint comes from porphyrins, which are iron-containing molecules excreted through tears and saliva. When these sit on the fur and oxidize, they create a stain.
In some cases, a brownish color may indicate a mild yeast infection (Red Yeast) caused by the constant moisture. Identifying the root cause is the first step in using natural ways to reduce tear stains in Maltipoos.
5 Natural Ways to Reduce Tear Stains in Maltipoos
Switch to Filtered or Distilled Water
Unbelievably, your tap water may be the source of the stain. Many municipal water sources are high in minerals like iron and magnesium. When your Maltipoo drinks this water, the high mineral content increases the porphyrins in their system, leading to darker stains.
- The Fix: Use a simple water filter pitcher or offer distilled water. This is one of the easiest natural ways to reduce tear stains in Maltipoos without changing their routine.
Upgrade to Stainless Steel or Ceramic Bowls
Plastic bowls are porous. Over time, they develop tiny scratches that harbor bacteria and yeast. As your dog eats and drinks, their face makes contact with these germs, causing irritation and staining around the mouth and eyes.
- The Fix: Replace plastic with high-quality stainless steel or lead-free ceramic bowls. Wash them daily in hot, soapy water.
The Magic of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Adding a tiny amount of organic, raw Apple Cider Vinegar to your dog’s water can help balance their body’s pH level. An acidic environment makes it much harder for yeast and bacteria to flourish on the face.
- The Fix: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ACV to a large bowl of water. Start small so they get used to the taste!
Organic Coconut Oil Barrier
Coconut oil is a natural antibacterial and antifungal. More importantly, it acts as a “water repellent” for the fur.
- The Fix: After cleaning your dog’s face, rub a tiny amount of organic coconut oil onto the fur below the eyes (do not get it in the eye). This prevents tears from soaking into the hair shaft, stopping the stain before it starts.
High-Quality, Grain-Free Nutrition
Fillers, artificial colors, and preservatives in low-grade kibble can cause allergic reactions that lead to excessive tearing.
- The Fix: Look for a limited-ingredient diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon oil). Reducing systemic inflammation is one of the most powerful natural ways to reduce tear stains in Maltipoos.
Daily Hygiene: A Step-by-Step Natural Cleaning Routine
Consistency is the “secret sauce” of SEO for your dog’s face! Follow this 3-minute routine daily:
Step 1: The Warm Compress
Dip a soft, lint-free cloth in warm (not hot) water. Gently press it against the stained area for 30 seconds to soften any crust or “eye boogers”.
Step 2: Natural Saline Rinse
You can make a home-made saline solution by mixing 1 cup of distilled water with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Use a cotton ball dipped in this mixture to wipe the area. Saline is a gentle antiseptic that helps clear away bacteria.
Step 3: Dry, Dry, Dry!
Moisture is the enemy. After cleaning, use a dry tissue or towel to blot the area completely. Yeast loves dampness; keeping the face dry is one of the best natural ways to reduce tear stains in Maltipoos.
When to See a Vet
While natural ways to reduce tear stains in Maltipoos work for most, staining can sometimes be a sign of a medical issue, such as:
- Inverted Eyelashes (Distichiasis): Hair rubbing against the eyeball.
- Blocked Tear Ducts: Tears can’t drain through the nose properly.
- Ear Infections: Believe it or not, an ear infection can cause the eyes to water excessively.
If the stains suddenly become foul-smelling or your dog is pawing at their eyes, it’s time for a professional check-up.
Conclusion
Finding the best natural ways to reduce tear stains in Maltipoos is a journey of trial and error. By switching to filtered water, maintaining a dry face, and choosing high-quality nutrition, you can significantly reduce those “rusty” marks.
Remember, a little daily effort goes a long way in keeping your Maltipoo looking as healthy as they feel!
FAQs: Keeping Your Maltipoo’s Face Bright
Expect to see a difference in 2 to 4 weeks. You have to wait for the stained fur to grow out while preventing new stains from forming.
Yes! Many natural “blueberry facials” use fruit enzymes to break down stains. It’s a safe, tearless way to brighten the coat during bath time.
We do not recommend this product for home use. Peroxide can be extremely painful if it splashes into the eye and can actually damage the hair follicle if used incorrectly.
Pumpkin is beneficial for digestion, but there is more evidence for probiotics. Adding a pet-specific probiotic to their food can help manage the bacteria that contribute to staining.
Every 2 to 3 weeks. Long hairs act like “wicks” that pull tears down the face. Keeping the inner corners of the eyes trimmed short is essential.
Don’t stop now. Check these out:
- https://petpress.net/save-money-on-dogs-care/
- https://petpress.net/dog-grooming-tips-for-winter-coat-care/
- https://petpress.net/dachshund-puppy-care-tips/
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