How to Make a Dog's Coat White & Shiny

A white dog's clean, healthy, shiny coat is attractive, a source of pride for a pet parent and a pleasure to feel on the fingers. Proper cleaning and good nutrition are key to making your dog's hair white and shiny, whether or not your dog has designs on digging up the garden or rolling around in trash.

A nutritionally complete diet promotes a shiny, healthy white coat. High-quality commercial dog foods generally provide everything your dog needs. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are particularly important for the skin and coat. Ask your vet about supplements if your dog has a skin condition, as some benefit from extra vitamin A, zinc, fatty acids or other nutrients.

Wipe away dirt daily with a damp washcloth. Bathing your dog protects her coat's whiteness and shine. If she has any skin conditions, ask your vet about specialty shampoos. Otherwise, use a whitening or "bluing" dog shampoo once or twice monthly, following package directions; the bluing agent can impart a bluish tint with overuse. For additional baths, use soap-free moisturizing dog shampoo. For graying or stained coats, apply baking-soda paste to trouble spots. Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse.