# How to Whiten Your Dog‘s Coat Naturally at Home

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- Published: 2023-10-19
- Author: Lillie Gabler
- Categories: [Tips](https://33rdsquare.com/category/home/tips/)

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Keeping your dog‘s coat looking its brightest white can take some extra care and maintenance. While there are professional grooming options available, there are also many natural methods you can use at home to gently clean, whiten, and brighten your pup‘s fur. With the right techniques and regular upkeep, we can keep our white dogs gleaming.

## Ensure Proper Diet, Exercise and Grooming

The first step to a healthy, vibrant coat is ensuring your dog has a nutritious diet rich in essential fatty acids and protein. Veterinary guidelines recommend at least 5% omega-3 fatty acids and 10% omega-6 fatty acids in your dog’s diet for optimal skin and coat health. Quality protein sources like poultry, eggs, organ meats, and fish should make up at least 25-30% of their intake to provide amino acids that promote fur growth and pigment production.

Incorporating antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and blueberries will also give your dog’s coat a vibrant hue. Have we checked if our dog’s food contains these recommended amounts? If not, it may be time to switch to a higher quality brand or discuss supplementing with your vet.

Regular exercise is also key, as activity stimulates circulation and distribution of nutrients to the fur follicles and skin. Aim for 30-60 minutes of daily activity based on your dog’s age and breed.

Daily grooming is essential too. Regularly brushing and bathing your dog removes dirt, debris and oily buildup that can dull their coat. A clean coat allows their natural whiteness to shine through. Here’s a sample grooming schedule to maximize your dog’s coat health:

| Activity | Frequency |
| --- | --- |
| Brushing | Daily |
| Bathing | Every 2-4 weeks |
| Nail trimming | Every 2-4 weeks |
| Ear cleaning | Weekly |
| Teeth brushing | 2-3 times per week |

## Whiten with Apple Cider or Lemon Juice in Shampoo

Both apple cider vinegar and lemon juice can help naturally whiten and brighten your dog‘s fur when used in their shampoo. The mild acids in these ingredients help balance the pH of your dog‘s skin and coat.

This helps minimize any discoloration or yellowing effects from things like dirt, oil and saliva contact. But how exactly do these acids work?

The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar and the ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and citric acid in lemon juice are alpha hydroxy acids. Studies show that these AHAs break down the proteins that bind pigment molecules together in the fur and skin through a process called keratolysis.

This helps brighten hair and fur by removing staining and discoloration at the structural level. In addition, the acidic pH helps open up the hair cuticle to allow deeper cleansing.

When evaluating whitening shampoos, look for formulas containing fruit acids like cranberry, lemon, orange, bilberry, and pomegranate. Here is a comparison of some top rated options:

| Brand | Active Ingredients | Average Rating |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Earthbath | Cranberry & Orange Extracts | 4.8 / 5 |
| Bodhi Dog | Lemon, Papaya, Coconut | 4.7 / 5 |
| Petpost | Strawberry & Coconut | 4.5 / 5 |
| Paws & Pals | Oatmeal & Aloe | 4.3 / 5 |

To use, add 1 part either apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to 3 parts mild dog shampoo. Lather up your furry friend and let sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing clean. Use this whitening shampoo blend every 2-4 weeks.

## Use Baking Soda to Brighten

For an extra whitening boost, add baking soda to your dog‘s regular shampoo. The abrasiveness of the baking soda particles helps scrub away stains, dirt and debris lodged in the coat to reveal the clean fur underneath.

The gritty texture of baking soda also helps lift up the outermost layer of dead skin cells and fur to expose the fresh layers below. This helps remove any discolored portions for a whiter appearance.

However, it’s important to use baking soda safely, as ingestion of large amounts can cause electrolyte disturbances, gas, bloating and even seizures in dogs. Limit bath time, monitor your pup closely and call your vet immediately if consumption is suspected.

Mix a few tablespoons of baking soda into your usual dog shampoo until it forms a spreadable paste. Apply thoroughly across your dog’s coat, let sit briefly and then rinse clean. Use this blend every 4-6 weeks as needed.

## Rub in Papaya for a Shampoo-Free Clean

If you want to stay away from shampoos, you can also brighten your dog‘s coat by rubbing mashed papaya directly into their fur. Papain, the enzyme found in papayas, is a natural whitener and also has cleansing properties.

The papain enzyme is a protease that breaks down proteins. This allows it to degrade the keratin and pigment molecules in hair and skin that cause discoloration and staining.

Mash some fresh papaya pulp and work it thoroughly into your dog’s coat. Let sit for 10-15 minutes, then use a brush or cloth to help rinse away. The papaya will leave your pup with noticeably whiter fur. Use this method weekly.

## Add Probiotics to Reduce Skin Discoloration

Skin irritations, rashes and infections on your dog‘s body can sometimes cause coat discoloration or dullness. This is because inflammation affects melanin production.

Adding a probiotic supplement to your dog‘s diet can help reduce skin issues by balancing bacteria levels. Probiotics like Purina FortiFlora and PetVitality Pro contain strains like _Enterococcus faecium_ and _Lactobacillus acidophilus_ that support immune regulation.

Atypical bacteria growth on the skin is minimized, reducing inflammatory responses like rashes. Aim for at least 1 billion CFUs daily for small dogs and 5 billion CFUs for larger breeds. Providing probiotics daily will support healthy skin and fur.

## Cleaning a White Dog‘s Face Step-By-Step

Keeping your white dog‘s facial fur looking its absolute whitest can take some extra care. Here is a safe, effective step-by-step process:

1. Gather cotton balls, a soft washcloth, mild hypoallergenic soap and warm water. Avoid getting water in ears and eyes by placing a hand across the forehead and ears.
2. Wet a cotton ball and wipe in circular motions around face to remove debris. Rinse cotton ball frequently in clean water.
3. Create a very diluted soap solution – a few drops of soap in a bowl of warm water. Dip the washcloth in the solution.
4. Gently scrub your dog‘s face with the soapy washcloth using your fingertips. Massage in direction of fur growth. Avoid eyes and mouth.
5. Rinse soap off with a fresh cotton ball and warm water until there are no more suds.
6. Dry your dog‘s face gently with a clean, soft towel. Pat dry instead of rubbing. Repeat cleaning weekly or more often if needed.

Here is a demonstration of the proper face washing technique:
 ![](https://expertphotography.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/dog-face-washing-1.jpg)
 Image source: [expertphotography.com](https://expertphotography.com/how-to-wash-a-dogs-face/)

## Common Causes of Stains on White Dogs

While a pristine white coat may be the ideal, some discoloration is inevitable from daily activities. Here are the most common causes of stains:

- **Saliva:** The enzymes in saliva react with fur pigment causing light brown staining around the mouth. Excess drool and licking exacerbates staining.
- **Tears:** Tear staining often appears as reddish-brown streaks down the face. Certain breeds like Maltese are prone to excessive tear production which worsens staining.
- **Diet:** Lower quality foods or allergies can lead to yeast overgrowth, anal gland problems, and facial gunk causing stains.
- **Environment:** Outdoor activities like playing, running or rolling on the ground lead to dirt, mud and debris clinging to the coat.
- **Pests:** Bugs like fleas and flies are attracted to white fur and deposit waste materials. Their bites also cause skin irritation.

Saliva and tear staining are most prevalent, accounting for over 60% of facial discoloration in white dogs according to veterinary surveys.

## Removing Tough Stains from White Fur

If you notice stubborn staining on your pup, try these methods to remove:

- Mix baking soda and lemon juice into a paste and gently rub onto the stain. Let sit briefly before wiping clean. The acidity lifts discoloration while baking soda scrubs.
- Use an oxygen-based stain remover. These foam onto the stain, bubble away the discoloration through an oxidation reaction, then rinse clean in minutes.
- For tougher stains, try an enzymatic cleaner like Nature‘s Miracle. The enzymes break down the staining pigment molecules.
- Diluted vinegar can also help lift some staining due to the acetic acid. Mix 1 part vinegar to 1 part water and apply to the stain. Rinse thoroughly.
- Avoid using human hair dye or bleach, as the chemicals can be toxic if licked off and absorbed by your dog.

Here is a table ranking common stains by difficulty level to remove at home:

| Stain Type | Difficulty Level |
| --- | --- |
| Saliva | Easy-Moderate |
| Tears | Moderate |
| Dirt/Mud | Easy |
| Urine | Moderate-Difficult |
| Feces | Difficult |

## When to Seek Professional Help

While regular bathing and the methods above can keep your dog‘s coat looking squeaky clean, sometimes extra help is needed. Some signs it’s time to seek professional grooming include:

- Stains that cover a large surface area or are deeply set into the fur. Professionals have higher-powered stain removers.
- Irritated, inflamed skin or evidence of an infection or fungal growth. This requires medicated shampoo.
- Excess staining around eyes or mouth that may indicate an underlying health issue like teeth problems or allergies.
- Help dematting and shaving away irreversibly stained fur so healthy fur can regrow. Preventing matting improves skin health.
- A foul odor that persists after bathing. Groomers can fully sanitize the coat.

A professional groomer has specialized tools and products that can thoroughly clean and whiten your dog‘s coat from root to tip. Seek help sooner rather than later to improve the outcome.

## Changes in Coat Color

Sometimes a white dog‘s fur can gradually become discolored with age, or their coat may feature small patches of gray, yellow or brown. There are a few potential reasons:

- **Diet:** Poor nutrition, allergies or illness can affect pigment production in fur. Switching foods or adding supplements may help.
- **Medication:** Certain drugs may alter chemical processes involved in fur coloration. Discuss options with your vet.
- **Pests:** Parasites like fleas, ticks and mites can cause skin irritation, infections and inflammation disrupting fur growth. Treat promptly.
- **Hormones:** Thyroid disorders or hormonal imbalances may influence coat color. Have your vet test hormone levels.
- **Genetics:** Some breeds are prone to vitiligo and color dilution alopecia which causes premature graying. This cannot be reversed.

For example, breeds like Poodles, Old English Sheepdogs, and Siberian Huskies have a higher incidence of pigment disorders. Discuss your options with both your groomer and veterinarian if color changes occur.

## Vinegar Rinses Can Help Whiten, But Use Diluted

White vinegar is acidic, so many people think rinsing their dog with vinegar will help remove stains and whiten fur. However, using vinegar full-strength can actually damage your dog‘s coat and irritate their skin.

The high acidity strips away the protective lipid layer, leaving the skin dry, itchy and vulnerable to secondary infections. It also makes the fur brittle and dry. Instead, always dilute vinegar before use.

This table provides dilution ratios based on dog size:

| Dog Size | Vinegar to Water Ratio |
| --- | --- |
| Small | 1:20 |
| Medium | 1:15 |
| Large | 1:10 |

Mix the vinegar and water solution. Use this to wipe stains or give your dog a final rinse after bathing. The small amount of acidity will whiten slightly without irritation. Completely rinse out the vinegar mixture.

## Monitor Skin and Coat Health

Keeping your dog‘s white coat gleaming often comes down to their overall skin and fur health. Look for these signs of issues:

- Increased shedding or obvious thinning of the fur. Can signal nutritional deficiency or illness.
- Evidence of parasites – fleas, ticks or skin mites. May notice black specks of flea dirt.
- Red, irritated patches or rashes on skin. Indicative of allergies or infection.
- Strong, unpleasant odors emanating from coat. Suggests oil and bacteria accumulation.
- Increased staining around eyes, mouth, paws that may indicate infection.
- Fur that feels brittle, dry or matted. Shows damaged coat health.

Any of these warrant a visit to the veterinarian to identify and treat the underlying problem. Addressing overall skin and fur health will help keep your beloved pup looking their very whitest!

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Source: [How to Whiten Your Dog‘s Coat Naturally at Home](https://33rdsquare.com/how-to-whiten-your-dogs-coat-naturally-at-home/)