Whether you are preparing for Halloween, the 4th of July, a wedding celebration, or your graduation, you must have thought about dying them at least once. But unlike humans, you cannot use human hair dye on them as it may be toxic for them. So what do you do? Do you DIY the paint at home or consult a groomer to take their service?

Let's find out in this article the safest way to dye fun colors for your pets.

What Dyes Are Safe for Your Pets?

There are a few safe pet dyes, and they are mentioned below.

1.Food Coloring

These are non-toxic, quickly get off, and are regularly available from any general or superstore. 

2.Pet Dyes

They are more expensive than food colors but last longer and are designed and manufactured for your pet. The good thing is that these have more vibrant color options.

3.Hair Sprays for Pets

They are simple and easy to use and come in spray form, making them much easier to apply. Similar to the above two types, they are entirely safe, non-toxic, and easy to remove by washing your pet with regular soap and water.

4.Chalks for Pets' Fur

It is just like regular chalk but non-toxic and safe for applying on your furry friends. All you need to do is rub them on the hair/fur of your pets, and you're done. It's super easy to come off with washing.

 

Best Tips and Things to Avoid When Coloring Your Pet's Fur

Now that you know the typical types of safe dyes for your pets, we recommend following these essential tips to get the best results.

Human dyes and sprays have chemicals that make them last longer. But the significant difference is that dogs clean their skin using their tongue. While we don't clean ourselves this way, these chemicals aren't ingested, but the same couldn't be true for your pets.

So, never use, in any case, human dye on your pets.

Apply the dye gently, and if you are using a spray, ensure it doesn't get into their eyes or tongue. Otherwise, they will be super irritated, and you will have difficulty applying them.

It is always easier to take the service of a groomer. As they know what they are doing and are more professional, you can get more style if they do the coloring. 

You shouldn't use dye for pets with sensitive skin or if they have a skin issue.

How Long Will the Dye Last?

Typically, most dyes like food coloring and chalk start fading with the first wash, and as soon as you wash them the 2nd time, they are gone. In the case of spray ones, they may last more than 3-4 washes. It is always better that they are easy to wash as the longer they stay, the more chances they can damage fur or cause infection.

Will the Dyes Work on All Cats and Dogs?

There isn't any difference between them, but the thickness may affect them, too, not too much. You can always discuss with a groomer and get the best advice based on your preference.

Steps To Follow When Dying

There are two principal phases to safely dying your pet's hair/fur.

Preparation Phase

In this phase, you need to choose what suits your pet.

· Choose the color based on the occasion or match what you wear.

· We shared four different types of pet fur dyes; you can use any of them that you can find easily. Never use permanent colors on them, which contain harmful chemicals that may cause long-term infections.

· Check for areas on your pet's fur where you see signs of irritation or wound; avoid those areas.

· Discuss what they use in detail with a grooming salon and which steps you should take if you are coloring the fur at home. You can also consult how much they would charge if you took their services.

Now that the preparation is done let's move to the application phase.

 

Dye Application Phase

Let's follow these simple steps to dye the fur.

Fur Washing

Use a pet shampoo and wash them by making a thick lather first. Complete the washing process and dry their fur using a cloth or a blow dryer. Make sure they are scorched, as applying dye with wet skin may cause molding or infection. Plus, your application will make their hair sticky.

Apply Eye Ointment

You can use an ophthalmic and sterile ointment to help them with minimal irritation. It also will stop any infection, so you can use it regularly even if you are not dying. 

You may only use it if you aren't dying the fur around the eyes. You can use chalk dye on the face and spray on the body to get the best of both worlds.

Mixing and Preparing the Dye

If you are using food colors or pet dye, you can dilute it with water by following the instructions on the dye packaging for proper mixing. It is best to use a water spray bottle for application.

Brush and Puff the Fur

This should be done when the fur is dry after a good wash, so the more puffier the hair, the better the application and results.

Apply and Dry

Using the water or regular spray color bottle, start applying from one side and comb the hair steadily during the application. Apply evenly and wear gloves if you are using a manufactured spray. 

After you are satisfied with the application, let the dye dry, which may take 15 minutes to an hour. You can always use a hair blower to speed up the drying process.

Ending Comments

Most people care for their pets like kids and want them to look cute and sassy. But unlike humans, pets are more sensitive to chemicals, so you should use quick-wash, non-toxic dyes for their health.