Light-coated dogs are shedding, but you can’t see it because it comes off so lightly. When you brush or comb your dog, you remove much of the loose hair that has been shed but hasn’t fallen out.
When a light-coated dog is bathed, all hair goes down the drain along with the soap suds. This means that if you shampoo your dog too often, it can lead to dry skin and dullness of coat color.
The best way to keep your dog’s coat shiny after bath time is to use a special dog shampoo for light coats. This type of shampoo will cleanse without stripping away natural oils in the skin, which protect against sunburn and dryness.
Qualities and Characteristics to Look For in a Dog Shampoo for Light Coats
A few key characteristics determine whether or not shampoo is right for your light-coat dog. These include:
Natural Ingredients
The ingredients are one of the most important things to look for when buying dog shampoo. Dog shampoos with natural ingredients are ideal because they are less likely to irritate your dog’s skin and more beneficial for their coat and skin.
If you have a light-coated dog, such as a Maltese or a Yorkshire terrier, it is important that you choose a shampoo that will not strip away all of its natural oils. This is especially true if your dog has sensitive skin or dry hair. If your dog has white fur, it is especially important to choose a shampoo that does not contain harsh chemicals or artificial colors that could stain their hair.
Optical Brighteners
Optical brighteners are added to shampoos for light coats to help achieve a brighter look in your dog’s fur. Optically brightened hair appears shinier than untreated hair but doesn’t contain more actual pigment than untreated hair.
pH Balance
A shampoo that is pH balanced is important for the health of your dog’s skin and fur. The pH level of water varies depending on where you live, but most dogs have skin that is naturally acidic, so their coat should be as well. A shampoo with a pH above 7 can irritate their skin and cause dryness or irritation.
Veterinarian Approved
If you want a product tested by veterinarians and approved as safe for use on dogs, then look for one with this feature. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has guidelines for choosing products for your pets’ health care needs, so look for those products when shopping around for dog shampoos or other grooming items like flea treatments or supplements like vitamins or minerals.
Silk Protein
If your dog has a lighter coat color, you want to ensure that its shampoo contains silk protein. Silk protein will help restore the natural shine to your dog’s coat while also giving it a silky feel. This is especially important if you have an older dog whose hair may not be as thick as it once was.
In Conclusion
Dogs with light coats, such as white, cream, or gray, can be prone to dullness. This happens because the natural oils that keep their coat shiny are washed away when they take a bath. The best way to keep your dog’s coat shiny after bath time is to use dog shampoo for light coats.