How to Get Stains Out of Dog Fur

Whether on your laundry or on your beloved pooch, stains are unsightly and unattractive. Stains occur for a number of reasons, including excessive tears, spilled dog food or accidental contact with an unwieldy marker. Regardless of their origin, a little extra grooming will restore your dog’s fur to its former fluffy glory.

Brush problem areas daily to cut down on stains. Stains are likely to build up under the eyes, around the mouth and under the dog’s nail, and a few passes with a brush every day will dramatically reduce stains. Short-haired dogs may also benefit from a quick wipe-down with a baby wipe once or twice a day.

Wash the stained area with regular dog shampoo. As simple as it sounds, a quick spot wash is enough to wash away some stains. Wet the stained fur and scrub a few drops of shampoo into the stain. Let it sit on the fur for a few minutes, and rinse with clean, warm water. Dry the spot with a clean towel.

Dab witch hazel into the stained fur. Leave the stain to soak for five minutes, rinse with water and shampoo away any residue. Witch hazel is a super stain buster, and will lift away discoloration without damaging your dog’s fur.

Add 2 tablespoons baking powder to a bowl, and sprinkle in enough cold water to make a thick paste. Scoop the paste onto an old toothbrush, and brush it into the stain. Coat the entire spot with the paste, and let it dry into a crusty spot on the fur. Baking soda is an all-natural stain lifter, and will polish away ugly stains while leaving your pup’s fur unharmed. Wipe the dried paste away with a damp rag, and wash the spot clean with a bit of dog shampoo.