Hello!

I have a white Maltese ShihTsu who suffers from tears stains. Not just tear stains, but stains also around her mouth. I have a stain remover product which helps but I would like some natural ways to clear them. I recently read of coconut oil in her food and apple cider vinegar in her drinking water. Has anyone tried these, or other ways that work, to clear tear stains?


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  • Please, consult a vet!!!. Vinegar in water could effect your dog’s organs. Lemon juice doesn’t sound a good idea to me either. It is acidic. With a dog’s eyes you can dampen a cloth that won’t let residue off at all, or even a good quality tissue and wipe around his eye. You may need to check the tears from his eyes aren’t excessive too. Short term fixes for stains are not always in the dog’s best interest.


  • We didn’t have a white dog, but our terrier used to get tear stains and found the only thing that worked for him was a weekly bath.


  • yeah ask a groomer for their advice and maybe a product to use.


  • My white poodle was prone to the stains. I used purple shampoo on him x


  • We had a white maltese terrier many years ago and he used to have tear stains all the time and despite being white he looked like he had two brown eyes bigger than it should be . I think if you get a soft cloth and we used to wipte his face with warm water and it used to help a bit. Maybe try a little bit of diluted lemon juice perhaps ? We could never get rid of it completely as he was always getting himself dirty .


  • ask your vet what they recommend.


  • Do you take your dog to a groomer? They will know. I’m not sure about coconut oil, but a dog-breeder I know gives it to her dogs to keep their coats glossy and skin healthy.


  • I am sorry I don’t have an answer for you but I do know how to get one. 1. If you bought your dog from a good registered breeder just call them and ask. They will be cleaning their dogs for shows etc all of the time. 2. If you bought through a Pet Shop friend etc then call your local Canine Control Council and ask them for the contact details for Maltese ShihTsu Breeders Club and ask them they are sure to be helpful. Good luck Michelle.


  • You could try and use some vinokur with some warm water or there is a product called No More Tears you can purchase it from Petbarn stores


  • Sorry to say, but our dog has the same and we have given up trying to remove them. They become a part of your dog, and adds to their personality. So long as the dog is clean and the stains don’t worry the dog, don’t let them worry you.


  • Consult with your vet for safe ways of treating these areas.


  • Still looking fir a way to remove these unsightly stains, one that works preferably, has been tried and tested


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