With a special event on the horizon, you want to get your dog in on the festivities and think it could be fun to color their fur — green and red for the holidays or red, white and blue for a patriotic celebration. It's a trend that's been growing, but can you buy dog-safe hair dye? Do groomers know how to dye dog hair? As a dog parent, your pet's safety and comfort is your number one concern.
Here's what to know about dying your dog's fur safely, so that you can make an informed decision about how you'll prep your pet for your next soiree.
Dog-Safe Hair Dye
Good news for color enthusiasts: there are lots of ways to safely dye your dog's hair. Semipermanent pet-safe dyes often come in gel or liquid form. In addition to the dyes you can buy at a store, you can also use vegetable juice to dye your pet's fur without exposing them to chemicals. Use carrot juice to give your pooch a reddish-orange tint or beet juice for pink fur. Food coloring is another option you may want to explore.
Consider asking a dog groomer if they sell or can recommend any pet-safe hair dyes. For other suggestions, reach out to your veterinarian or a local pet supply store.
The most important thing to remember is to not use hair dye for humans on your pet, as they can be toxic. This is especially dangerous since dogs lick themselves. Also, avoid products that contain harsh chemicals, such as hydrogen peroxide and ammonia. And avoid dying your dog's hair if they have a skin condition or have irritated or itchy skin, as dye could further aggravate it.
How Long Does Dog-Safe Hair Dye Last?
The longevity of your dog-friendly hair dye will vary based on your dog's coat and the kind of dye you use. Some products will last a day or two and are designed to wash out after a single bath, while others may last for up to five washes.
Does Dye Work on All Dog Coats?
While we often think of poodles when it comes to breeds with dyed fur, you can dye the hair of most types of dogs — whether their hair is short or long and curly or straight. To learn more about how color will take to your dog's fur, consult a groomer.
Tasty Tips
How to Dye Dog Hair Safely
Wondering how to dye dog hair safely? While there are DIY techniques you can use to dye your pet's hair at home, as outlined by The Fun Times Guide to Dogs, the best way to ensure your dog's safety and comfort is to have a professional groomer dye their hair. If you don't have a groomer, ask your vet for groomer recommendations. Make sure to check your dog's fur and skin for any scratches or open sores to prevent aggravating them and causing your dog pain. Also, make sure to avoid getting the dye around your dog's face as it could be unpleasant if it gets in their eyes or nose. Always be sure to consult your veterinarian to get their take to avoid any mishaps or dyes that could be unsafe for your dog.
As long as you take the proper precautions by sticking to natural, toxin-free dyes and consulting a professional, dying your dog's hair can be a fun way to honor an occasion or celebrate a holiday. Your pup will be sure to turn heads when you enter the party.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health, tailored for unique needs of Small and Mini puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small Bites
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat. In a delicious small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light with Liver Dog Food
Low calories & L-Carnitine help promote ideal body weight, support healthy mobility & maintain heart function
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Beef & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Beef & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew Can Variety Pack Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Large Breed Chicken Meal, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day one
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Barley Entrée
Chicken & barley entree with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the faster metabolism of Small & Mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult 6+ Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports energy & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, joints, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small Bites Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition. Delicious food in a small bite size.
Hill's Science Diet Adult
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small & Mini Chicken Recipe dog food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew Can Variety Pack Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Can Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Healthy Cuisine Variety Pack
Related articles
Dog Scratch Reflex: Why Dogs Kick Their Legs During Belly Rubs
Wondering why your dog's leg kicks when you scratch his belly? Learn about dog scratch reflexes, why they love belly rubs and how it's useful for your vet.
4 Puppy Training Hacks
When you first thought of adopting a dog, you expected puppy training to be a ton of fun. Here are some training tips to make sure it stays that way.
How to Make Vet Visits Less Scary for Your Dog
Is your dog scared of vet appointments? Learn tips for calming his anxiety and taking the stress out of his trip to the veterinarian.
Xylitol and Dogs: A Harmful Combination
The sweetener xylitol can be harmful to dogs. Discover which food products contain xylitol, signs your dog has consumed some, and what to do in that case.
Why Dogs Throw Up After Eating
Discover some of the common reasons why your dog might be throwing up after eating, and what you can do to help them overcome this issue.
Dog Tail Signs: What That Wagging Means
Learn how to tell what your dog is feeling from his tail wagging, including what mood he might be in based on the motions and speed of his tail.
Do Dogs Feel Guilt or Shame?
Does shaming your dog have a positive effect, or are you just encouraging more bad behavior? Learn more about how he interprets feelings of guilt & shame.
How to Handle Your Dog's Fear of Water & Bathing
Discover helpful tips for managing a dog who's afraid of water, how to handle bath time, and how to get them more comfortable with swimming.
Service Dogs Helping Other Dogs: Two Real-Life Stories of Pups Helping One Another
While service dogs play a huge role in helping people, they can also help other dogs with special needs. Read two true stories of these remarkable dogs.
Parvovirus: What You Need to Know
Parvovirus in dogs, especially puppies, is a devastating illness that can be fatal. Learn the facts about parvo & what to do if your dog has been exposed.
Weight Loss Goals & How Your Dog Can Help
Learn some great ways to involve your dog in your weight loss goals, including exercise & activities you can both do and healthy snacks for both of you.
Dog Park Rules: Do's and Don'ts
Learn about the dog park rules that make for a fun time at the park. Park outings are a fun way to socialize with your dog, but safety comes first.
Dog Scooting & Recognizing Anal Gland Problems
If your dog regularly scoots on the carpet, the cause may be their anal glands. Learn how to recognize issues and how you can help relieve the itch.
How to Clean Dog Ears
Learn the proper technique and supplies you can use to clean your dog's ears, including some tips to make it as smooth as possible for him.
Excessive Thirst in Dogs: Common Causes & When to See the Vet
Discover the many conditions that cause excessive thirst in dogs, from simple dehydration to more serious issues, and learn when you should visit the vet.
The Science Behind Your Dog and His Behavior
Discover how the field of dog science is giving us more and more insights into the inner workings of our furry best friends.
Choosing the Best Dog Breed for You
Get tips on how to pick your next dog, and learn what things you should consider when choosing a puppy.
Whipworms in Dogs: Signs, Treatment and Prevention
Whipworms in dogs are a common problem. Learn what they are, the signs and how whipworms in dogs are diagnosed, treated and prevented.
Tooth Extractions in Dogs: Causes, Procedures, Recovery & Prevention
Learn what a tooth extraction in dogs involves, what the recovery period is like and how you can help your dog avoid needing a tooth pulled in the future.
Managing Megaesophagus in Dogs
Learn about megaesophagus in dogs, how it makes digestion difficult & impacts your dog's health, and tips for helping you manage this condition.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.