Bichon Frise Eye Stains – What They are & How to Get Rid of Them

First Priority – Is it a medical issue?

It is very common for a Bichon Frise to have some reddish or brown colored staining around their eyes. It is highly unlikely that it is a result of or related to a health problem. You should still make an appointment with your vet as your first step. This is particularly important if your Bichon has never has staining in the past. In addition to confirming your dog is in tip top health, they will have suggestions for reducing or eliminating the stains. The vet no doubt, as spoken to other worried owners of both Bichons and other light colored dogs.

bichon frise eye stains

Next Step – Think about a change of diet

Think about what you’ve been feeding your Bichon Frise. Have you switched brands, or started him on a new variety. Also, sometimes manufacturers change their formulas, and as pet owners, we have no way of knowing about it. The next time you buy a bag of kibble, compare the ingredient list on the new bag to the old one. See if there’s been a new ingredient introduced.

You can also try a food with a different primary source of protein. Look for the first ingredient listed on the label. If it’s chicken, you may want to look at the pet store for a food with salmon, duck, or lamb as the main protein ingredient. Be on the alert for dyes. Just like people, animals can be very sensitive to food additives. Even natural dyes can cause stains for some dogs. Beet extract is a common one to keep an eye out for.

Consider a Dietary Supplement

There are several products on the market specifically for the purpose of treating eye stains. Most come in the form of a powder you sprinkle onto or stir into your dogs food. By far, the most well known and popular is called Angel Eyes.

There are nearly 2,000 customer reviews you can browse through at Amazon. Some people have posted before and after pictures as well. I am not affiliated with Angel Eyes, I am just aware of the brand from personal experience in Bichon Frise circles. One key piece of information to know as you consider a supplement, is the active ingredient is a low dose of the antibiotic Tylosin. Only you and your vet can determine if this course of action is suitable for your Bichon.

Frequent Grooming & Unconditional Love

Bichons prone to eye stains can benefit greatly from a stepped up schedule of visits to the groomer. If you are currently taking them every six to eight weeks, start going once a month. The extra attention from a professional groomer can make a world of difference. You should also gently wipe their eye area with a moistened soft cloth, or you can use one of the commercial disposable eye pad cleansing products available at the pet store.

My final thoughts for you today are really more of a request. Remember what matters the most. Your Bichon Frise adores you, and loves you with all their little heart. They don’t mind if you’re not the most beautiful human on the block, they love you just the way you are. Try not to obsess too much over getting your Bichons eyes to be perfectly white. Just enjoy the time you have to play, cuddle and enjoy your beautiful Bichon Frise.