Do you look at your beautiful Maltese and wish those reddish-brown tear stains around their eyes would just disappear? You are not alone! Many Maltese owners struggle with this common cosmetic issue. It can be frustrating when you try different cleaning methods, but the stains keep coming back. It often feels like you are fighting a losing battle against those persistent marks.
Choosing the right food is a big part of solving this problem. The food your dog eats can directly affect their tear production and staining. Navigating the crowded pet food aisle, trying to figure out which ingredients help and which ones make things worse, feels overwhelming. You want the best for your tiny companion, but the sheer volume of choices makes finding the perfect diet a real challenge.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what ingredients to look for and which ones to avoid. By the end, you will feel confident choosing a dog food that supports clear eyes and a happier Maltese. Get ready to learn the secrets to tackling tear stains right from the bowl. Let’s dive into finding the best nutrition for your little white wonder!
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
Choosing the Best Dog Food for Your Maltese to Combat Tear Stains
Maltese dogs are adorable, but those reddish-brown tear stains under their eyes can be frustrating for owners. These stains often come from tears spilling over due to allergies or dietary issues. The right food can make a big difference! This guide helps you select the best food to keep your little white dog sparkling.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for food to help with tear stains, look for specific qualities. These features target the root causes of staining.
- Low Allergen Ingredients: Many tear stains link to food sensitivities. Look for limited ingredient diets (LIDs) or novel proteins (like duck or venison) instead of common culprits like chicken or beef.
- Natural Colorants: Avoid foods with artificial colors or preservatives. These additives can sometimes worsen staining.
- Tear Stain-Specific Additives: Some premium foods include ingredients like cranberry extract or specific antioxidants proven to help manage tear fluid composition.
- High-Quality Protein Source: The first ingredient should always be a named meat source (e.g., Salmon, Lamb).
Important Materials and Ingredients
The ingredients list tells the whole story. Focus on what goes in the bowl.
Good Materials:
- Omega Fatty Acids (EPA/DHA): Found in fish oil (like salmon or herring), these fats support healthy skin and coat. They also help reduce inflammation that can cause watery eyes.
- Antioxidants: Ingredients rich in Vitamin E and Vitamin C help fight inflammation. Berries and sweet potatoes are great natural sources.
- Digestible Carbohydrates: Choose easily digestible carbs like brown rice, sweet potatoes, or peas over corn or wheat, which are common allergens.
Materials to Avoid:
- Artificial Dyes and Fillers: Red and blue dyes are major red flags for stain-prone breeds.
- Excessive Corn, Wheat, or Soy: These fillers offer little nutritional value and often trigger allergic reactions.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of the food directly impacts your Maltese’s tear production.
What Improves Quality:
- Whole Food Sourcing: Foods that use whole meats and vegetables generally offer better nutrition.
- Appropriate Kibble Size: Maltese are small dogs. Small kibble size makes eating easier and promotes better chewing, which can reduce throat irritation that sometimes leads to excessive tearing.
- Veterinarian Approval: Formulas recommended by vets often have superior nutritional balancing.
What Reduces Quality:
- By-Products: Ingredients listed as “meat by-products” are low-quality fillers.
- High Ash Content: Some studies suggest that food with high mineral (ash) content can contribute to darker, more stubborn stains. Look for lower ash percentages if possible.
User Experience and Use Cases
Owners report different results based on how they introduce the food and how long they stick with it.
Use Cases:
- Transition Slowly: When switching to a new food meant to combat stains, mix the old food with the new food gradually over 7 to 10 days. Sudden changes upset tiny Maltese stomachs.
- Consistent Feeding Time: Feeding your dog at regular times helps regulate their digestive system, which supports overall health and potentially reduces allergy flares.
- Expect Time: Do not expect stains to disappear overnight. Owners usually see noticeable improvement in the color and severity of new tear stains after 4 to 8 weeks of consistent feeding.
10 FAQs About Dog Food for Maltese Tear Stains
Q: Why does my Maltese get tear stains?
A: Tear stains often happen because of allergies to food or the environment, or sometimes due to physical issues like blocked tear ducts. Diet plays a huge role.
Q: Can any dog food fix tear stains?
A: No. You need specialized food that uses highly digestible, low-allergen ingredients and contains beneficial antioxidants.
Q: How long does it take for better food to work?
A: Most owners start seeing less severe staining after about one to two months of consistent feeding.
Q: Should I feed my Maltese wet or dry food?
A: Dry kibble is generally better for dental health, which is important for small breeds. Ensure the kibble is small enough for easy chewing.
Q: What is the best protein source for stain reduction?
A: Novel proteins like salmon, duck, or white fish are often recommended because they are less likely to trigger common allergies than chicken or beef.
Q: Are grain-free foods always better for tear stains?
A: Not necessarily. Some dogs do better on grain-free, but others need easily digestible grains like brown rice. Look for limited ingredients, not just the absence of grain.
Q: What supplements help with tear stains besides food?
A: Owners often use supplements containing Tylosin or specific tear stain powders, but always talk to your vet before adding supplements.
Q: Does the food’s color affect tear stains?
A: Yes. Avoid any food that uses artificial colors, especially reds and blues, as these can sometimes make existing stains darker.
Q: Should I switch to raw food?
A: Raw diets are a major commitment. If you want to try it, you must research extensively or use a professionally formulated raw diet to ensure complete nutrition for your Maltese.
Q: If the food is expensive, is it better?
A: Often, yes. Higher-priced foods usually mean higher quality, named protein sources and fewer cheap fillers, which usually leads to better results for sensitive breeds like the Maltese.