The Alaskan Malamute cuts an impressive figure with its powerful build and dignified presence—but when brown or reddish tear stains appear around the eyes, it can break a pet parent's heart. The thick double coat covering the face traps moisture easily, and the unique facial structure of this 75–85 lb giant can affect tear drainage. Today we'll share tear-stain management strategies tailored to the Malamute's distinctive traits.
01Why Are Tear Stains More Visible on Alaskan Malamutes?
Bred to pull sleds in the harsh Arctic, the Alaskan Malamute sports an exceptionally thick double coat that extends densely around the face. This luxurious fur holds moisture longer when tears flow and restricts airflow, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive.
In addition, Malamutes have broad faces and deep-set eyes, which means the tear ducts (nasolacrimal ducts) may sit at different angles compared to other breeds. This can prevent tears from draining smoothly into the nose, causing overflow onto the fur and increased staining.
Dogs with white or light-gray coats show reddish-brown discoloration especially prominently, so consistent care from an early age is crucial.
02Four Main Causes of Tear Stains
Tear staining in Malamutes is rarely just about 'excessive tearing'—it's usually a combination of factors.
- Nasolacrimal duct stenosis or blockage — Some dogs are born with narrow or obstructed tear ducts that prevent proper drainage. Veterinary examination is essential.
- Skin folds & coat texture — The dense double coat around the face can irritate the eyes, and moisture trapped in facial folds encourages bacterial and yeast overgrowth.
- Allergies & food sensitivities — Environmental allergens or sensitivity to certain proteins may increase tear production.
- Eye irritation & inflammation — Conjunctivitis, corneal abrasions, or abnormal eyelashes (ectopic cilia, etc.) can all boost tear volume.
Because Malamutes are highly active and enjoy outdoor adventures, they're frequently exposed to dust, pollen, and other irritants—making post-walk eye checks an important habit.
03How to Care for That Thick Double Coat
The Malamute's fur has higher water retention and slower drying times than most breeds. If tear-soaked hair is left untended, the skin stays damp and reddish-brown porphyrin pigments settle into the hair follicles, causing progressive staining.
Daily Morning & Evening Eye Wipes
Use gauze (not cotton pads) dampened with lukewarm purified water or saline, gently wiping from the inner corner outward. Cotton pads can leave fibers that irritate delicate skin. After wiping, blot once more with dry gauze to ensure the area is moisture-free.
Facial-Hair Trimming
Long fur overhanging the eyes should be periodically rounded (trimmed) to prevent poking. If you're uncomfortable doing this at home, ask your groomer for a 'sanitary trim.'
Complete Drying After Baths
Post-bath, use a blow dryer on low heat to thoroughly dry the face, preventing bacterial buildup. Pay special attention to areas under the eyes, around the muzzle, and behind the ears—moisture loves to hide there.
04Reducing Tear Volume Through Diet & Environment
Managing tear stains requires internal-factor control just as much as external hygiene.
Trial a Hypoallergenic Diet
If your Malamute is sensitive to chicken or beef, try a novel-protein formula—duck, salmon, or kangaroo—for 4–6 weeks. Choosing foods free of artificial colors and preservatives often reduces tear production.
Boost Water Intake
Alaskan Malamutes are large dogs with high fluid needs. Always provide fresh water, and consider adding wet food or toppers to encourage hydration; diluting tear composition may help minimize staining.
Maintain Indoor Humidity & Cleanliness
Dry air irritates the eyes and stimulates tearing. Keep humidity between 40–60 % and reduce dust mites with an air purifier and regular bedding laundering.
05Home-Care Routine: Daily Management with ANITOK Hair
Preventing tear stains hinges on a little effort every day, consistently. ANIBETTER's ANITOK Hair was developed specifically for periocular and coat care—helping manage porphyrin staining gently and supporting skin hygiene.
Application is simple: dampen clean gauze with a small amount, wipe softly from the inner to outer corner, then air-dry or blot with dry gauze. Free from chemical bleaches and peroxides, it's safe for daily use and can penetrate even thick double coats to help inhibit bacterial and yeast growth.
For breeds like the Malamute with abundant facial fur, a specialized care solution is far more effective long-term than generic wet wipes.
06When Vet Visits and Professional Treatment Are Needed
If home care brings no improvement—or if tearing suddenly worsens—a veterinary visit is essential.
Your vet can perform a fluorescein stain test to check for corneal damage and a nasolacrimal-duct flush to diagnose blockages. If eyelash abnormalities or entropion (inward-rolling eyelids) are found, surgical correction may be required.
When allergic conjunctivitis is suspected, antihistamines or immune-modulating eye drops may be prescribed; confirmed bacterial or yeast infections call for antibiotics or antifungals.
Malamutes are genetically predisposed to cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), so regular ophthalmic exams are important for comprehensive eye health monitoring.
· Your dog frequently paws at their eyes or blinks excessively
· Eye discharge turns yellow or green, and eyelids are swollen or red
· Two weeks of home care show no improvement—or staining worsens
· Tearing suddenly increases or is severe in only one eye