Maltese dogs are renowned for their striking, flowing white coats, a hallmark of their breed. This pristine appearance is often a source of pride for owners, yet many observe the emergence of unsightly brown or reddish-brown discoloration. While these spots frequently pose no serious health threat, they are a common concern for owners seeking to maintain their dog’s immaculate coat. Understanding the various factors contributing to these spots is the initial step in addressing them.
Common Causes of Brown Discoloration
Brown discoloration on a Maltese’s coat often stems from external factors, primarily natural secretions and environmental elements.
Tear Stains (Epiphora)
Excessive tearing, medically termed epiphora, is a frequent cause of reddish-brown stains beneath a Maltese’s eyes. Tears contain porphyrins, iron-containing molecules that oxidize and turn reddish-brown when exposed to light and air. This staining is particularly noticeable on white fur due to the stark contrast. The constant moisture also creates an environment conducive to yeast and bacterial growth, further contributing to the discoloration and sometimes a mild odor.
Tear production can be naturally high in some Maltese due to genetics, shallow eye sockets, or small tear ducts. Long hair around their eyes can also wick tears onto the face, exacerbating the staining. While primarily cosmetic, persistent moisture can irritate the skin underneath, potentially leading to secondary issues.
Saliva Stains
Similar to tears, saliva also contains porphyrins that cause reddish-brown staining when it dries on fur. This discoloration is commonly observed around a Maltese’s mouth, particularly after eating or drinking. Saliva stains can also appear on paws, legs, or hindquarters if the dog frequently licks these areas.
Constant licking introduces moisture and enzymes from saliva to the fur, allowing porphyrins to oxidize and create the characteristic brown tint. The moisture also creates an ideal breeding ground for yeast, further intensifying the discoloration and potentially causing skin irritation.
Food and Environmental Stains
External factors like food residue or environmental contact can also directly stain a Maltese’s white coat. After meals, food particles or liquids can cling to the fur around the mouth, leaving visible brown marks. Contact with dirt, mud, or certain chemicals can transfer pigments to the fur. These stains are typically superficial and often resolve with regular bathing.
Underlying Health Issues Causing Stains
Beyond direct external contact, several underlying health issues can either initiate or worsen brown staining on a Maltese’s coat. These internal factors often lead to increased secretions or behaviors that contribute to discoloration.
Allergies
Allergies, whether environmental or food-related, can significantly contribute to staining in Maltese dogs. Allergic reactions can lead to increased tear production, exacerbating existing tear stains. Similarly, allergies often cause itchiness, prompting dogs to lick and chew excessively on their paws, legs, or other body parts. This increased licking introduces more saliva to the fur, resulting in more pronounced saliva stains.
The inflammation associated with allergic responses can also alter the skin’s microenvironment, making it more susceptible to secondary infections that further contribute to discoloration. Identifying and managing specific allergens is crucial for reducing both symptoms and staining.
Dental Problems
Poor oral hygiene and dental issues can also play a role in saliva stains around a Maltese’s mouth. Conditions such as gingivitis, periodontal disease, or tooth decay can lead to increased drooling or changes in saliva composition. This excess moisture around the mouth provides ample opportunity for porphyrins in the saliva to oxidize and stain the surrounding fur. Addressing dental health through regular brushing and professional cleanings can therefore indirectly reduce perioral staining.
Yeast or Bacterial Infections
Infections, particularly those caused by yeast (Malassezia) or bacteria, frequently thrive in moist environments created by excessive tears or saliva. These infections can directly cause reddish-brown discoloration of the fur. Yeast infections often produce a reddish-brown discharge and have a characteristic sweet or musty odor. Bacterial infections can also lead to discolored fur, often accompanied by irritation, redness, or itching. The presence of these microorganisms can intensify the staining.
Flea Dirt
Flea dirt, which consists of flea feces containing digested blood, can sometimes be mistaken for brown stains or contribute to overall discoloration. These small, dark specks appear reddish-brown when wet, as the dried blood rehydrates. Observing these specks, especially when a damp paper towel turns them red, indicates a flea infestation that requires treatment.
Preventing and Managing Brown Stains
Managing brown stains on a Maltese’s coat involves a multi-faceted approach, focusing on regular cleaning, dietary adjustments, and environmental control. These strategies aim to minimize the factors that contribute to staining.
Regular Cleaning Practices
Consistent daily cleaning of stained areas is paramount for preventing discoloration buildup. Gently wiping the fur beneath the eyes and around the mouth with a soft, damp cloth or a pet-safe wipe can remove fresh tears and saliva before they oxidize. For more persistent stains, specialized tear stain removers formulated for pets can be applied. Regular professional grooming, including trimming hair around the eyes and mouth, helps prevent moisture and debris accumulation, making daily cleaning more effective.
Dietary Considerations
Diet can influence the body’s chemistry, potentially affecting tear and saliva composition. Some owners report a reduction in staining when feeding a high-quality diet without artificial colors or excessive fillers. Providing filtered water instead of tap water, which can contain minerals that contribute to staining, is another commonly suggested practice.
Environmental Management
Maintaining a clean living environment for your Maltese can also help prevent external staining. Regularly washing bedding and cleaning food and water bowls can reduce bacteria and yeast that might contribute to discoloration. Providing a clean and dry space minimizes contact with potential environmental contaminants.
When to Consult Your Veterinarian
While many cases of brown staining are cosmetic, certain signs warrant a professional veterinary consultation. If the discoloration is accompanied by redness, swelling, discharge, or a foul odor around the eyes, mouth, or paws, it could indicate an underlying infection or irritation. Persistent scratching, licking, or rubbing of the face or body suggests discomfort that needs veterinary assessment. A sudden increase in tear production, drooling, or the appearance of new stains should also prompt a visit. These symptoms could signal allergies, dental issues, eye problems, or other medical conditions requiring diagnosis and treatment.