How to Naturally Whiten a Dog's Fur

Whether it’s your furniture, your clothing or your dog’s fur, maintaining the clean white look in white things can be quite a challenge. While a number of chemical whiteners and whitening shampoos are commercially available, natural solutions for whitening your dog’s fur are safer alternatives that offer equally effective results.

Offer only purified water to your pooch. Hydrating your dog with only high-quality water is your first line of defense against tear stains that discolor his snowy white fur. Purified water minimizes tear stains because it is free of harsh chemicals and high levels of iron that promote tearing and discoloration.

Avoid giving your pooch any food or treats with added coloring. Dyes added to food and other pet products can cause discoloration of the fur. Feeding your faithful friend only high-quality and dye-free food and treats helps to promote health while preventing unsightly stains.

Keep hair out of your pooch’s eyes. Stained fur is often the result of overactive tear production. If your dog’s facial fur is prone to getting into his eyes, the irritation that it causes to the eyes is likely to lead to excessive tear production and tear stains. If you would rather not cut your dog’s facial hair to prevent irritation, use a special dog rubber band or clip to tie his hair up into a topknot over the eyes.

Wipe down your pooch’s coat daily with a homemade grooming spray. Pour equal parts water and dog shampoo into a spray bottle. Spray the mixture onto a warm, damp washcloth and use it to wipe down your dog’s fur, concentrating on the coat areas that are most stained.

Concoct your own natural stain remover. Mix equal parts of medicinal 1 percent peroxide and milk of magnesia. Working with one teaspoon at a time, add cornstarch to the mixture until it thickens into a paste. Apply the paste to the stains on your dog’s fur and let it set in for a couple of hours. Remove the paste by carefully combing it out. Using a conditioner to soften up the fur before removing the paste will make the process easier. If you apply the paste to an area that your dog can reach, use a cone to prevent him from licking it off.

Expand your arsenal of homemade stain removers with a second concoction. Mix equal parts of boric powder, baby powder and milk of magnesia into a paste. Apply the paste to your pooch’s stained fur and allow it to air-dry. Once it's dry, carefully comb the paste out of the fur.