My experience using dog eye wipes on my Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are known for their adorable flat faces and large, expressive eyes, but these very features make them prone to tear staining, eye discharge, and potential infections. When I first brought home my Shih Tzu, I quickly realized how much attention her eyes would need to stay healthy and clean. One of the first products I explored in my grooming toolkit was dog eye wipes — and they’ve been a game-changer.

Why Eye Care Is Crucial for Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus have a brachycephalic facial structure, which means their eyes are more exposed and tend to produce more tears. These tears can lead to staining, especially on lighter coats, and if not cleaned regularly, may harbor bacteria or yeast. Over time, this build-up causes a reddish-brown discoloration and can even irritate the skin under their eyes.

I initially tried using damp tissues and soft cloths, but those either didn’t clean thoroughly or caused some mild irritation. That’s when I switched to specially formulated dog eye wipes — and I immediately noticed a difference.

Choosing the Right Eye Wipes

After researching and reading reviews, I opted for hypoallergenic, alcohol-free eye wipes designed specifically for dogs. I looked for natural ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile, which help soothe the skin while cleaning. Some products also included ingredients like boric acid or witch hazel to reduce staining and kill bacteria without stinging.

One thing I quickly learned is that not all eye wipes are created equal. Some had a strong scent or were too wet, making my Shih Tzu uncomfortable. The ones that worked best were fragrance-free, thick enough for one-pass cleaning, and had just the right amount of moisture to gently loosen crusty buildup without leaving a mess.

My First Week Using Eye Wipes

The first time I used the wipes, my Shih Tzu was skeptical. She’s a sweet dog but doesn’t enjoy anyone messing with her face. I made sure to use a calm tone and gently lifted the hair around her eyes. Instead of scrubbing, I lightly wiped outward from the corner of her eyes, being careful not to touch the eyeball directly.

After a few days of consistent use — once in the morning and once before bedtime — I noticed a reduction in tear staining. The area around her eyes looked cleaner, and the skin didn’t seem irritated or pink anymore. She also grew more tolerant of the routine. I made it a bonding moment with extra cuddles afterward, and she started associating the process with positive attention.

Benefits I Noticed

• Less Tear Staining: While eye wipes won’t eliminate tear staining overnight, they significantly reduce the build-up that causes stains in the first place.

• No More Crusty Discharge: Before using wipes, I’d often see little crusts in the corner of her eyes. With regular wiping, those disappeared entirely.

• Improved Skin Condition: The skin under her eyes used to get red or even slightly scabby at times. That’s no longer an issue.

• Better Smell: Yes, eye gunk can actually cause a slight odor if not cleaned regularly. Wipes helped eliminate that completely.

Maintenance and Routine

I’ve integrated eye wipes into my Shih Tzu’s grooming schedule. Here’s what it typically looks like:

• Daily Wipe: I do one gentle wipe in the morning, right after breakfast.

• Evening Clean: Another wipe before bedtime, especially if we’ve been on a walk or she’s had an active day.

• Weekly Full Groom: During her brushing and coat maintenance, I do a more thorough clean and inspect for any abnormalities around the eye area.

One tip I’ve learned is to always pair the wiping with a gentle brushing of the facial hair. Keeping the hair trimmed around the eyes also reduces irritation and tear production caused by hair poking the eye surface.

Tips for New Users

1. Be Gentle: The skin around a dog’s eyes is delicate. Never scrub or press too hard.

2. Use a Separate Wipe for Each Eye: This avoids spreading any potential infection from one eye to the other.

3. Avoid Getting Too Close to the Eyeball: Stick to the fur and skin around the eye socket.

4. Introduce Slowly: If your dog is fussy, start by letting them sniff the wipe and slowly incorporate it into your routine.

5. Reward Good Behavior: Positive reinforcement goes a long way.

Mistakes I Made Early On

In the beginning, I made a few rookie mistakes. I tried using baby wipes once — big mistake. The chemicals and perfumes in them caused slight irritation. I also tried skipping a day or two to see if it made a difference, and sure enough, the staining and crust came right back. Consistency is absolutely key when using eye wipes on a Shih Tzu.

Final Thoughts

Using dog eye wipes on my Shih Tzu has been one of the best grooming habits I’ve developed. It doesn’t take much time, and the results are noticeable. Not only does she look cleaner and happier, but regular cleaning also helps me monitor her eye health more closely. If there’s any redness, excessive tearing, or unusual discharge, I can spot it immediately and take action before it becomes a bigger issue.

Now, eye wiping is just another part of our daily bonding — and it keeps my little companion looking as adorable and healthy as ever.