How to Remove Tear Stains From Poodles
Tear stains are little brown streaks that appear in the fur at the corner of the eyes on many small dogs, including poodles. These tear stains are usually wet, and are more evident on white dogs or dogs with white faces. While they are natural for small dogs, they can build up and become uncomfortable for your dog. Poodle owners should clean the tear stains from their dog’s eyes on a regular basis.
Things you will need:
- Cotton swabs
- Clean soft cloth
- Bowl
- Small grooming scissors
- Mineral oil
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Cut the matted and wet hairs in the corner of the poodle’s eyes using small grooming scissors. Have someone help you hold the dog’s head steady, if possible. Take care not to tug on the hair or get the scissors too close to the dog’s eyes. Remove the spots that are tear stained by cutting as close to the skin as possible while avoiding the dog’s eyes and skin.
- Dip a cotton swab into mineral oil and swab underneath your poodle’s eyes. The mineral oil is safe and will not irritate its eyes, and will protect them while you clean the area that is stained. A small amount under each eye is sufficient.
- Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with 10 parts water in a small bowl. You will not need very much, but it is important to dilute the hydrogen peroxide so as not to irritate or cause harm to the poodle’s eyes.
- Dip a clean cotton swab into the mixture from step three, getting it thoroughly wet. You may also use a clean, soft cloth.
- Wipe the area where the tear stains are with the hydrogen peroxide mix. Again, it is helpful to have someone steady the dog’s head while you clean, to prevent injury. If you are uncomfortable or unsure, take your poodle to a professional groomer, who will charge a small fee to clean the tear stains.
- Wet a small area of a clean cloth with plain water and wipe the area under the dog’s eyes. Clean away the hydrogen peroxide mixture and the mineral oil by wiping with downward strokes several times.
- Repeat the cleaning process on a regular basis, as needed. If you are concerned, or if the tear stains are an unusual color, consult your veterinarian.