tear stains

Question
10 wk old maltipoo w/red tear stains.  I have been trying a high protein diet. no luck. Suggestions?


Answer
Hi Kathy,

Your puppy should be receiving a puppy food for his or her full first year.

When the area around the eyes stays moist due to excessive tearing, red yeast bacteria start to develop into the staining you see. The causes of excessive tearing can be many and varied, including but not limited to: genetics, health, diet, fleas, bacterial infection, ear infections, cutting teeth (in puppies), irritation, high mineral content in the dog's drinking water, blocked tear ducts, etc.

It is important that your veterinarian determine the cause(s) of the excessive tearing before directing you in any methods of trying to cure the problem. Until then, keep the eye area wiped clean daily. Clean the stained fur with a cotton ball and some peroxide (Make sure NOT to get it their eyes) then dry the area well with a clean towel. You might even consider having your dog's groomer carefully shave the area so as to prevent excessive red yeast bacteria build-up.

You can try giving him or her purified water/bottled water with low mineral content to drink, if your tap water has a high mineral content. Keep in mind, if the water isn't the culprit, it won't clear up the tear stains.

You can use equal volume of Milk of Magnesia (plain white) and peroxide, and then a little corn starch to make a paste; put on and work well into the stained area and let dry 4 hours. Wash out, CONDITION WELL. Keep doing this for several days until tear staining is gone, although I would recommend skipping a day or two between applications if possible. Apply a thin coat of Desitan diaper rash ointment after the area is washed out and dry. Try this every other day if possible and the choice way of doing it. If your dog has heavy stains then do this for 3 days in a row, then skip every other day.


Best of luck,

Patti