The "Tear Stains" Guide

How to Clean Rusty Tear Stains on White Dogs Safely

If you own a white Cavoodle, Maltese, or Bichon Frise, you know the struggle of the "rusty eye." Those stubborn red or brown stains that run down their snout can make a perfectly clean dog look messy.

But what actually causes them, and how do you get rid of them without using harsh chemicals near your dog's sensitive eyes?

The Science of the "Rusty" Stain

Tear stains aren't just dirt. Dog tears contain naturally occurring molecules called Porphyrins, which contain iron. When these iron molecules sit on the fur and are exposed to sunlight and air, they oxidize. Essentially, your dog's fur is "rusting."

If the area stays constantly wet, it also becomes a breeding ground for red yeast, which makes the stain worse and adds a funky smell.

The Mistake: Bleach and Peroxide

Many commercial "tear stain removers" rely on harsh bleaching agents. Using these near a dog's eyes is incredibly risky, and it strips the hair shaft, making it porous and more likely to stain in the future.

The 2-Step Safe Cleaning Routine

Step 1: The Gentle Wash You need to wash away the yeast and the protein buildup naturally. Wet a soft face cloth with warm water and lather a small amount of our Barkmere Soap Bar onto the cloth.

• Why it works: The Coconut and Sunflower oils act as a gentle, natural cleanser that won't irritate if a tiny bit gets too close to the eye. Wipe the stained area gently, then rinse with a clean, wet cloth. Dry the area completely with a towel.

Step 2: The "Tear Repellent" Barrier The secret to stopping future stains is preventing tears from soaking into the fur in the first place.

Once the face is totally dry, rub a tiny smear of Bark Butter Balm onto the fur just below the eye (where the tears usually run). The Organic Australian Beeswax acts like a raincoat—tears will simply roll over the top of the wax rather than soaking into the hair.