Do those stubborn reddish-brown streaks under your Maltese’s eyes keep appearing no matter how often you wipe them away? You are not alone. While these tear stains are a common sight on many white-coated dogs, they can be incredibly frustrating for owners who just want their pup to look their best. You have likely tried dozens of expensive cleaners and wipes, only to find that the stains return a few days later.
The secret to clear eyes often starts from within the food bowl rather than on the surface of the fur. Choosing the right nutrition is a major pain point because the market is flooded with confusing labels and misleading marketing claims. It is overwhelming to figure out which ingredients trigger excess tearing and which ones actually support your dog’s health. Many owners accidentally choose diets that worsen the problem without ever realizing it.
In this guide, we will cut through the confusion and explain exactly how your Maltese’s diet impacts those pesky tear tracks. You will learn which specific ingredients to avoid and which high-quality nutrients can help reduce staining from the inside out. By the end of this post, you will feel confident choosing a dog food that keeps your furry friend healthy, happy, and bright-eyed. Let’s dive into the best nutritional strategies to get your Maltese back to looking their snowy-white best.
Top Dog Food For Maltese With Tear Stains Recommendations
- FORMULATED FOR PUREBRED MALTESES: Royal Canin Maltese Adult Dry Dog Food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of a purebred Maltese 10 months and older
- SPECIALIZED KIBBLE: Unique kibble is designed to help small dogs easily pick up and chew their food
- COAT HEALTH: Provides skin support and coat care with biotin and omega-3 and -6 fatty acids to help maintain silky, long hair
- OPTIMAL STOOL: Highly digestible proteins promote optimal stool quality and reduce stool amount and odor
- HIGHLY PALATABLE: Adult dog food with exceptional aromas and flavors to satisfy picky eaters
- Supports White Coat & Skin Health: Our dog food for small dogs is enriched with amino acids, Omega-3 & 6 to help prevent coat yellowing, brown stains, and dullness - keeping your small breed dog’s fur white and skin healthy
- High-Quality White Fish Protein: This sensitive skin dog food is made with highly digestible, savory white fish protein as the #1 ingredient that supports digestion and immune health - ideal for picky eaters and small breed dog food needs
- Gentle & Grain-Free Formula: A dog food grain free and gluten free recipe crafted for easy digestion and fewer reactions like bloating or gas, making it a top choice for dog food for allergies and itching
- Crunchy Kibble for Dental Health: Special dog kibble shape encourages chewing, promotes clean teeth, supports nutrient absorption and is ideal for small dog mouths - balanced small breed dry dog food for daily mealtime
- Convenient & Fresh Packaging: Comes in one (1) 3.3 lb bag of dry dog food, ideal for freshness and portion control. This adult dog food is crafted in the EU as a healthy dog food solution for white or light-coated dogs food needs
- Reduces Tear Stains & Odor: Our dog food for small dogs supports clear tear and saliva composition, helping reduce brown stains around the eyes, mouth, and paws while keeping white coats clean and free from odor or irritation
- Lamb Protein as the #1 Ingredient: A natural source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, this easily digestible small breed dry dog food supports immune health, energy metabolism, and delivers rich flavor for even the pickiest eaters
- Strengthens Immunity & Vitality: Formulated with antioxidants and nutrients, our healthy dog food helps defend against stress, supports cell health, and boosts immunity - ideal adult dog food for active, resilient pets
- Small Breed Kibble Texture: Crunchy dog kibble shaped for small jaws promotes chewing, aids dental hygiene, and enhances digestion; perfect for small breed dog food needs like Bichon Frise, Japanese Spitz, Maltese
- Convenient Packaging: Our dog food formula with lamb and rice comes in a 3.3 lb bag for portion control and freshness; a great dry dog food option for adult small breeds with white, light or mixed coats
- TEAR STAIN REMOVER FOR DOGS AND CATS: Eye Envy's Tear Stain Remover Powder absorbs moisture and cleans tears, keeping your pet's eyes stain free. With a drying formula featuring non-irritating and all-natural ingredients, this powder works to minimize tear stains over time. Remove tear stains in few days with daily use. For stain free eyes, use weekly once original tear stains are removed. Available in 3 sizes to suit your pet size, breed and number.
- EYE STAIN REMOVER: Not a cover-up, chalk, or cosmetic. Used daily it will keep the area around the eyes dry. Apply with a fingertip or for easy application use the Eye Envy ProPowder Applicator Brush.
- EFFECTIVE ON ALL BREEDS: Remove tear stains from white dogs, toy breeds, dogs with skin folds/wrinkles and flat faced cat breeds such as the Persian and Exotic Shorthair. Recommended by breeders, professional groomers and cat fanciers/dog show enthusiasts worldwide.
- SAFE AND NATURAL: Made with only natural, non-toxic ingredients. Eye Envy products are non-irritating and applied topically, never ingested. Does not contain parabens, peroxide, bleach, steroids, or antibiotics. Fragrance free, cruelty-free. Safe for pets of all ages. Made in the USA.
- LONG-TERM TEAR STAIN REMOVAL: Use alone or for best results use it with Eye Envy Tear Stain Facial Cleanser to remove heavy staining and debris/gunk. Follow this with the Eye Envy Tear Stain Remover Solution or Wipes to clean the area. Finally, finish with the Eye Envy Tear Remover Stain Powder to keep the area around the eyes dry.
- START REMOVING TEAR/SALIVA STAINS – Wipe twice a day to start seeing improvements in your dog’s tear stains or saliva stains!
- EASY AND SIMPLE – Perfect to wipe, clean and throw away! It is that quick! Mild and fragrance-free formula keeps your pet’s face clean, fresh and odor-free!
- KEEP YOUR DOG CLEAN – Keep your dog’s eye and mouth areas free and clear of discharge and debris
- MADE IN THE USA! Buy with confidence! All Healthy Breeds products are made in federally regulated manufacturing facilities. All raw materials utilized are of the highest quality and are evaluated for purity and potency prior to use.
- Healthy Breeds offers an assortment of dog products including health care, grooming, dental care and treats for over 200 breeds! Make sure to search for your breed! Click the Healthy Breeds hyperlink above to see our Amazon storefront. Excellent customer service and return policy. 100% satisfaction guaranteed
- TEAR STAIN REMOVER - With regular use of our tearless dog shampoo facial treatment you'll see tear stains fade and white fur brightened.
- SWEET BLUEBERRY & VANILLA - SPA's blueberry face wash for dogs is a luxurious soap free formula with a rich vanilla scent that will leave your pet pampered and smelling irresistible.
- FOR ALL BREEDS - Perfect tear stain remover for white dogs with long hair, but can also be used on pets with any fur color and coat type.
- LAVISH INGREDIENTS - Carefully blended with oatmeal and vitamin E to ensure that each use of our dog facial wash cleans and provides rich moisture to the coat.
- LOVED BY PROFESSIONALS - A groomers favorite, SPA by TropiClean offers a range of high-quality grooming shampoos and uniquely scented dog colognes for a luxe experience.
- 30-45 DAY SUPPLY KIT: The Tear Stain Remover Pack contains 2 oz Tear Stain Remover Solution for Dogs, .5oz Tear Stain Remover Powder, 30-Count Applicator Refill Pads, and Small or Large ProPowder Applicator Brush.
- TWO-STEP SYSTEM: Tear Stain Solution cleans the affected area. Tear Stain Powder absorbs excess moisture and helps repel new tears. It is NOT a chalk or cover up, but a natural silk-like powder that safely keeps your pet’s eye dry, stain-free and full of luster. Apply Powder safely with the ProPowder Brush.
- REMOVE TEARS: Safely remove tear stains with non-irritating and 100% natural ingredients. Visible improvement with consistent daily use. For tear free eyes, use weekly once original tear stains are removed. Apply directly around the eyes and between skin folds.
- SAFE AND NATURAL: Eye Envy products are non-irritating and applied topically, never ingested. Eye Envy does not contain; parabens, peroxide, bleach, or steroids. Safe for pets of all ages. Made in USA since 2001.
- EFFECTIVE ON WHITE DOGS/WRINKLED BREEDS: Proven effective by breeders, professional groomers and dog show enthusiasts worldwide. Maltese, Shih Tzu, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Havanese, Bichon, Poodle, Samoyed, Pekingese, Pomeranians, Pugs, Bulldogs and other white/light colored toy breeds.
- CLEAR EYES: Helps give your pets tear stain-free eyes and a bright coat naturally
- USE: For both dogs and cats
- EASY TO ADMINISTER: Simple dosing so your pet is sure to take it
- SAFE TO USE: Can be give to puppies over 6 weeks
- FLAVOR: Savory chicken taste your pet will love
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Dog Food for Maltese Tear Stains
Maltese dogs are famous for their beautiful, snowy white coats. However, many owners struggle with reddish-brown tear stains under their eyes. While these stains can be caused by genetics or blocked tear ducts, diet plays a massive role. Feeding your Maltese the right food can help reduce staining and keep their face bright and clean.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for dog food, focus on “clean” labels. Look for high-quality proteins like chicken, turkey, or fish. Avoid foods that contain artificial dyes or chemicals. These additives often cause inflammation, which triggers excessive tearing. Choose brands that include natural antioxidants, as these support your dog’s immune system.
Important Ingredients and Nutrients
The quality of ingredients determines how well your dog digests their food. Poor digestion often leads to more tear production. Look for these essential components:
- High-Quality Protein: Real meat should be the first ingredient listed.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These promote healthy skin and reduce eye irritation.
- Probiotics: These support gut health, which helps reduce systemic inflammation.
- Filtered Water: High mineral content in tap water can worsen stains. Consider using distilled or filtered water alongside a good diet.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all dog food is created equal. To improve your dog’s tear health, avoid common triggers like corn, wheat, and soy. Many Maltese have sensitivities to these fillers, which cause allergic reactions. A reaction often manifests as watery eyes.
Conversely, look for limited-ingredient diets. These formulas reduce the chance of an allergic reaction. Also, check the label for “human-grade” ingredients. These undergo stricter testing and contain fewer contaminants than standard pet-grade ingredients.
User Experience and Use Cases
Most Maltese owners see a difference within four to six weeks of switching to a high-quality diet. Many users suggest keeping the hair around the eyes trimmed short. This prevents tears from sitting on the fur and oxidizing, which creates the dark color. Use a stainless steel bowl for feeding instead of plastic. Plastic bowls harbor bacteria that can irritate your dog’s face and eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does diet really stop tear stains?
A: Yes, diet is a major factor. Reducing inflammation through high-quality food often lowers the amount of tears your dog produces.
Q: How long until I see results?
A: Most owners notice a change in about one month. It takes time for the new, unstained hair to grow in.
Q: Should I avoid grain entirely?
A: Many Maltese do better on grain-free diets. If your dog has allergies, grain-free is usually the safest choice.
Q: Can treats cause tear stains?
A: Absolutely. Avoid treats with artificial colors or cheap fillers. Stick to single-ingredient treats like freeze-dried liver.
Q: Why does my Maltese have brown stains?
A: Tears contain iron-rich pigments called porphyrins. When tears sit on the fur, these pigments turn brown or red.
Q: Is tap water bad for my dog?
A: Tap water often contains high levels of minerals. These minerals can darken tear stains. Filtered water is a better option.
Q: What protein is best for a Maltese?
A: Fish-based proteins are often best. They are rich in Omega-3s, which help soothe skin and eye irritation.
Q: Can I use supplements?
A: You can, but consult your vet first. Probiotics and Omega-3 oils are usually the most helpful for tear stains.
Q: Are wet foods better than dry?
A: Both can work well. Just ensure the wet food does not contain artificial preservatives or dyes.
Q: Should I wipe my dog’s eyes daily?
A: Yes. Keeping the area dry is just as important as the food you serve. Use a damp, soft cloth to clean the area daily.