How to Get Brown Stains Off Light-Colored Dogs

White and light-colored dogs are susceptible to brown stains around the mouth and eyes.
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Brown tear stains, paw stains and beard stains are common occurrences in white and light-colored dogs. You may find that your pooch still has unsightly brown stains on the white fur near her eyes, paws and mouth even immediately after a bath. These stains may be caused by oxidation when saliva and eye drainage meet her fur, or by dyes in her food or the growth of red yeast.

Consult your veterinarian to determine the cause of the stains. If the stains are caused by yeast, your veterinarian may prescribe antifungal medications to remove them. If the stains are caused by licking, oxidation or food dyes, you can apply remedies at home if you have hydrogen peroxide and Epsom salt.

Dip a cotton ball in hydrogen peroxide and apply it to any stained areas of your dog's face, using care around her mouth and eyes. Apply daily until the hair begins to turn white. Continue to apply it daily to prevent staining in the future.

Place your dog's paws one at a time into a mixture of water and Epsom salt. Remove her paws from the water mixture and allow them to dry; there is no need to rinse them.

Clean the stained area with a fragrance-free baby or a specially made pet wipe. Continue this process daily until the stains fade.

Tips

  • Consult your veterinarian if you notice any change in your dog's behavior or appearance, including the sudden appearance of stains around the eyes or mouth, or an increase in licking.

Warnings

  • Always use care when applying products to a dog's face; avoid direct contact with eyes and mouth.

Warnings

  • Always use care when applying products to a dog's face; avoid direct contact with eyes and mouth.

Tips

  • Consult your veterinarian if you notice any change in your dog's behavior or appearance, including the sudden appearance of stains around the eyes or mouth, or an increase in licking.

Items You Will Need

  • Cotton balls
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Epson salts
  • Fragrance-free baby or pet wipes