Tear stains are caused by porphyrins — natural pigments in tears and saliva that oxidize and turn brown when exposed to air. White-coated breeds like Maltese, Bichon, and Poodle show them most clearly.
Daily care wins the war
Wipe under the eyes with a soft pet-safe eye wipe every morning. Consistency matters more than intensity. Aggressive scrubbing or human cleansers will only irritate the skin.
Look at the diet
High-mineral tap water can worsen staining. Filtered water often makes a noticeable difference within a few weeks. Plastic food bowls also harbor bacteria — switch to stainless or ceramic and wash daily.
When to see the vet
If staining is sudden or one-sided, blocked tear ducts or eye infection might be the cause. Don’t wait — an exam will rule those out quickly.
