Do you look at your beautiful Maltese and wish those stubborn, rusty tear stains would just disappear? You are not alone. Many owners feel frustrated when their bright, white companions develop dark streaks under their eyes. While these stains are common, they can be a sign that your dog is struggling with their diet.
Choosing the right food for a Maltese is often overwhelming. You want to pick a meal that is healthy, but you also need to avoid ingredients that trigger excess tearing. With so many brands on the shelf, it is hard to know which ones actually stop the staining and which ones are just clever marketing. You might worry about spending money on expensive bags of food that do not solve the problem.
In this guide, we will clear up the confusion. You will learn exactly which ingredients cause tear stains and which nutrients help keep your dog’s eyes clear and bright. We have done the research so you do not have to guess anymore. By making a few simple changes to your dog’s bowl, you can finally restore that snowy white coat you love.
Ready to help your furry friend look their best again? Let’s dive into the best nutrition tips to tackle those pesky tear stains for good.
Top Dog Food For Maltese Tear Stains Recommendations
- 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
- 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.
- Gentle & Effective Tear Stain Solution for Dogs and Cats : This tear stain remover balm gently cleans and reduces tear stains, eye gunk, and crust on dogs and cats. Especially effective for white-furred breeds like Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Pomeranian. Leaves fur looking clean and healthy
- Soothing Formula with pH-Balanced Eye Care : Infused with natural plant extracts, our balm soothes irritated tear ducts, balances pH, and helps relieve eye redness, discharge, and minor irritations. A gentle alternative to harsh dog eye drops or chemical-based products
- Prevents Future Stains & Pigmentation : This balm not only treats current tear stains but also forms a light protective barrier that helps prevent tear-induced pigmentation and new stain formation. A smart addition to your pet grooming routine
- Easy 3-Step Application with Brush Included : For best results: clean the area using pet-safe eye wipes or dog face wipes, dry with a soft towel, then gently apply the balm using the included silicone brush. Great for home use or travel grooming kits
- Natural, Mild, and Safe for Daily Use : Made with jojoba oil, olive oil, and grape seed oil, our tear stain remover balm is hypoallergenic, lick-safe, and suitable for pets with sensitive skin. No bleach, no fragrance, and safe for both dogs and cats
- GENTLE ON SKIN – These cat & dog wipes are formulated with zero fragrances and a sulfate-free cleanser to soothe itch and gently clean their eye area of tearing.
- NO RINSE FORMULA – Easy and convenient to use, these cat & dog tear stain remover wipes help clean up discharge from around your pet's eye that could be causing staining and further irritation.
- RECOMMENDED FOR ALL BREEDS – Good for all dog & cat breeds, not just those with white coats, over 12 weeks of age for daily maintenance and cleansing of the sensitive eye area.
- HIGH-QUALITY INGREDIENTS – Green Tea, Chamomile, and Valerian Extract make these eye wipes for dogs & cats non-irritating yet effective without the need for bleaching agents.
- EFFECTIVE & AFFORDABLE – Our premium products are high-quality at an affordable price. We know dogs and cats are more than just pets because we are pet parents too.
- 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
- 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.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Food for Maltese Tear Stains
Maltese dogs are famous for their beautiful white coats. However, many owners struggle with reddish-brown tear stains under their eyes. While some stains come from genetics, diet plays a huge role. Finding the right dog food can help clear up your pup’s face and keep them healthy.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for food to help with tear stains, focus on ingredient lists. You want high-quality proteins like chicken, turkey, or fish. Avoid “meat meals” or generic “meat by-products.” Look for foods that include natural antioxidants like blueberries or cranberries. These ingredients support a healthy immune system, which helps reduce tear production.
Important Ingredients to Avoid
Certain ingredients can trigger the overproduction of tears. You should avoid artificial colors and dyes. Many cheap dog foods use red or yellow dyes that can seep into a dog’s tears and stain their fur. Also, stay away from low-quality fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. These ingredients are hard for a Maltese to digest and often cause inflammation.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is determined by how the food is processed. Cold-pressed or gently cooked foods keep more nutrients intact. Avoid foods with heavy preservatives like BHA or BHT. A high-quality diet will often feature “human-grade” ingredients. If the food contains excessive salt or sugar, it will lower the quality and may increase tear staining. Always check if the food is balanced for small breeds, as Maltese dogs have specific energy needs.
User Experience and Use Cases
Most owners notice a difference after four to six weeks of a new diet. You should transition your dog slowly to avoid an upset stomach. Mix the new food with the old food over seven days. Many users find that filtered water also helps reduce staining. Use stainless steel bowls instead of plastic, as plastic can harbor bacteria that irritates the eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can diet really fix tear stains?
A: Yes, diet is often the main cause of staining. Removing allergens and artificial dyes can significantly reduce the redness around the eyes.
Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: It usually takes four to six weeks. You must wait for the stained fur to grow out and be trimmed away.
Q: Should I choose grain-free food?
A: Many Maltese owners find success with grain-free diets. However, talk to your vet first to ensure it is the right choice for your dog’s heart health.
Q: Do treats cause tear stains?
A: They can! Many store-bought treats contain artificial colors. Stick to natural, single-ingredient treats like carrots or apple slices.
Q: Does water quality matter?
A: Yes. High mineral content in tap water can cause staining. Try giving your dog filtered or distilled water.
Q: Is homemade food better for tear stains?
A: Homemade food allows you to control every ingredient. Just make sure to work with a vet to ensure the diet is nutritionally complete.
Q: Why do my dog’s eyes water so much?
A: It could be allergies, blocked tear ducts, or even irritation from hair. If changing the food does not help, see your vet.
Q: Can I use supplements?
A: Some supplements help, but a high-quality diet should be your first priority. Always consult your vet before adding vitamins.
Q: Does the color of the food matter?
A: Avoid foods with artificial red or yellow dyes. These dyes are often the direct cause of dark stains on white fur.
Q: Should I clean the area around the eyes?
A: Yes. Even with the best diet, you should wipe your dog’s eyes daily with a soft, damp cloth to prevent bacteria buildup.