Expert: Georgia - 4/12/2001

Question
Hope you can give me some "tips" on the best way to deal with my adorable Bichon's eye staining problem....I have tried a number of commercial products, without much success!  Thought you might have some "tips" that will help!  Thanks so much...."Dolly's" Mom

Answer
Okay first of all, the best way to deal with this problem is to have your dog vet checked for any medical reasons for this problem. I would put your dog onto a very high quality food such as Eukanuba or Hills and feed her this and this only-no treats. This will rule out diet related allergies. Secondly, I would keep the hair around her eyes trimmed very short, to help reduce irritation. You could do this yourself or get your groomer to do so, once a fortnight will be sufficient. You will also need to keep the area clean and dry EVERY DAY. Build up around the eye will only worsen the problem. I would try eye shampoo from your vet  or diluted baby shampoo with a tissue several times a day. This will take a while but it should clear up within a month.
Let me know how the eyes go.