’s because one of the potential causes of these stains is infection caused by bacteria.
But hydrogen peroxide is dangerous for the eyes, and can cause medical problems for dogs who accidentally get some in their eyes.
So this is another area where the medical literature isn’t quite in agreement.
On top of the antibacterial aspects, hydrogen peroxide’s bleaching properties may work well to lighten darker colors caused by staining, when dried on the muzzle.
But some vets say it’s still too dangerous, given the possible consequences to your dog’s eye.
In sufficient concentrations, the oxygen decomposition process can cause burns to the conjunctiva, a tissue that lines the insides of eyelids and coats the eye.
Don’t try to use hydrogen peroxide for dogs eyes, or in their eye area, ever. Go to your veterinarian for help.
Also, you should visit the vet to make sure there isn’t an underlying health issue that is causing the staining.
Using Hydrogen Peroxide to De-Skunk Your Dog
Many recipes for removing skunk odor from your dog include hydrogen peroxide, along with other ingredients such as baking soda and liquid soap.
We can’t find any research that says this is a bad idea, and there’s much anecdotal evidence that a mixture of these ingredients does, indeed, work to neutralize bad odors.
Chemist Paul Krebaum is credited with creating an effective remedy, published in Chemical & Engineering News from October 1993 and tested on “MythBusters,” that includes one quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup of baking soda, and 1 tsp. of liquid soap.
But you still need to be careful to keep the hydrogen peroxide out of your dog’s eyes, nose and mouth.
Remember, too, that hydrogen peroxide can bleach hair and clothing, so be careful.
So, is hydrogen peroxide safe for dogs?
Who knew that such a ubiquitous substance would be so controversial, when it comes to dog care?
The issue is this – hydrogen peroxide for dogs can, under certain circumstances, be helpful. But it isn’t necessarily the safest antibacterial choice.
This is especially true if you use concentrated versions without diluting them, and use them too close to eyes, ears, and mouths.
It’s good for inducing vomiting and effective when it comes to deodorizing your skunked pet.
Beyond that, though, you may want to look at alternatives specifically designed for each purpose.
- Khan, S. A. et al (2012). Effectiveness and adverse effects of the use of apomorphine and 3% hydrogen peroxide to induce emesis in dogs. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 241(9).
- Lineaweaver, W. et al (1985). Topical antimicrobial toxicity. Archives of Surgery, 120(3).
- Sapers, G. M. et al (1999). Effectiveness of sanitizing agents in inactivating Escherichia coli in Golden Delicious Apples. Journal of Food Science, 64(4).
- Simon, R. H. et al, (1981). Hydrogen peroxide causes the fatal injury to human fibroblasts exposed to oxygen radicals. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 256.
- Sleigh, J. W. and Linter, S. P. K. (1985). Hazards of hydrogen peroxide. British Medical Journal. 291.