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Whether it’s for Halloween, a sporting event, or another special occasion, many people opt to give their pup’s coat a colorful makeover. You might see a bright pink poodle or a purple and gold chihuahua. But is it safe to dye your dog’s hair?
If you’re determined to dye your dog’s hair, it’s critical to only use products specifically designed for dogs and avoid permanent dyes. Never use human hair dyes on your pets, as they can contain chemicals and other ingredients that pose risks to dogs. Some safe options people use are natural food coloring, Kool-Aid, or fur chalk.
Before you dye your pup’s hair, decide if it’s 100% necessary. Is it worth going through the process? If you decide yes, then make sure you choose mild, safe methods and products.
The most important thing you need to know is don't use human hair dye products to dye your dog's fur. These human products can be harmful to your pets. They also often contain various ingredients like bleach or hydrogen peroxide. These ingredients can lead to chemical burns and other issues, from skin irritation to increased pet shedding.
Instead, if you plan to dye your dog's hair, use one of the following methods.
Find natural food coloring options made with fruits and vegetables or flowers to dye your dog’s fur. You can mix these into water and apply them to your pup’s hair with a spray bottle.
Verify that the coloring you choose is non-toxic before applying it to your pup. Also, ensure it dries before turning your pup loose, so the dye doesn’t rub off on your furniture, clothing, etc.
Using Kool-Aid to dye your dog’s fur is another safe option. However, it typically works best on white pups or those with lighter-colored fur. The color will remain for a couple of weeks but fade over time. Therefore, keep this in mind when you use Kool-Aid to dye your dog.
Buy the small sugar-free packs of Kool-Aid, and clean your dog’s coat first. You can mix the Kool-Aid in water or a doggy conditioner. Use a toothbrush to apply it to the fur and let the hair dry with the dye on it. Once it’s dry, give your pup a rinse.
If you prefer a very temporary way to color your pup’s fur, consider using dog-friendly fur chalk. You can apply it directly to your dog’s coat or mix it with water to form a paste. You can wash it out easily with doggy shampoo.
You can always purchase pet-friendly hair dye that is especially for animals. You can find various types, usually as a liquid or a gel. A good place to get some recommendations is your pup’s groomer.
No matter which dye you choose, make sure to follow the directions on the label. Depending on the dye, it might last for a few days or up to four or five shampoos.
Another type of dog-friendly hair dye comes in a pen form. You apply them by blowing through the pen (similar to kids’ craft pens). These are good options if you want to add a specific colorful design to your pup’s fur. You can use a stencil and blow pen to only apply the color to the designated area.
Are you ready to add some color to your pup’s fur? Make sure to follow these tips when dying your dog’s hair.
It’s always important to arm yourself with knowledge when doing anything with your pets. Before you color your dog’s fur, there are a few things to consider.
In most states in the US, you’re free and clear to dye your dog’s fur with no issues. However, a few states consider the task a misdemeanor, and you could face fines or even risk losing your pup.
Colorado, Florida, Maine, and South Carolina all have laws about dying dogs’ fur. In many cases, you could face charges even if you’re simply passing through the state with your colorful pup.
However, some claim the laws are older and not consistently enforced. In other situations, the law might only apply to dying your dog for show or sale. But, better to be safe than sorry.
Your dog might not be a happy camper if you try to color their fur. If they have sensitive skin, it could cause irritation or other issues. This is why you should always test a small area first and be ever-vigilant regarding your dog’s behavior. Your dog gets to have the final say.
You could be in for a mess if you don’t know what you’re doing or have an energetic pup. Hair dye can stain clothing, furniture, towels, etc. Make sure to properly prep the area before attempting to dye your dog’s fur. Or, take them to the groomer for the application.
Adding color to your dog’s fur can be fun for you and your pup if you do it safely. However, always ensure your dog is on board and stop if they show signs of stress or irritation. Always use dog-friendly dyes or natural products like food coloring, and avoid using human products at all costs.
Talk to your groomer if you’re unsure how to go about dying your dog’s fur. They can ensure that the job is done correctly and safely. If you need a professional groomer, you can ask your vet, friends, or family or use sites like Bark.com. Start small, perhaps just a dash of color on your pup’s tail if it's your first time.
For more helpful tips and resources about being a fantastic pet parent, check out the rest of our blog. We’re always adding fresh ideas and info so you can stay on top of the latest ways to care for your furry friends.
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