Many dog owners are attracted to the Samoyed breed because of their lustrous white coats. The colour and fullness of the fur are distinctive. However, this attractive characteristic requires consistent grooming. A daily 15-minute brushing session can keep the coat clean and free of matting. Samoyeds have double coats that are naturally dry, owing to no oil glands in the skin. This helps to keep them clean but makes the fur more vulnerable to stains.
- Many dog owners are attracted to the Samoyed breed because of their lustrous white coats.
- A daily 15-minute brushing session can keep the coat clean and free of matting.
Determine the source of the discolouration of your Samoyed's fur. Common causes include dirt, natural stains, fabric dyes and saliva.
Brush your dog with a long-tooth comb. This will get through the Samoyed's thick coat. Dirt will often come off of the dog's dry coat with this simple step.
Bath your dog if the dirt is caked on and does not come off with brushing. A quality canine shampoo should suffice. A wet coat is more susceptible to staining, so keep your dog under close watch until the fur is dry.
- Brush your dog with a long-tooth comb.
- Bath your dog if the dirt is caked on and does not come off with brushing.
Clean the dog's fur with an enzyme-enhanced shampoo if the stain is stubborn. Natural stains, such as mulch or manure, saliva spots or urine stains may require this type of shampoo.
Prevent saliva stains by keeping your Samoyed's pH balance in check. This can be done by adding 1 teaspoon of apple vinegar to each gallon of your dog's drinking water.
TIP
Samoyeds can have natural silver tips on their fur -- this is not a discolouration. Avoid whitening shampoos, as they tend to add colour to the coat. Make the grooming sessions a positive experience for your dog, which will in turn make them easier on both of you. Contact a professional groomer if you are unable to remove the stain yourself.
WARNING
Do not overshampoo your Samoyed. In addition making the fur brittle, it can be a cause of discolouration. When drying your Samoyed, do not use a dryer with a heating element. This will burn and dry the fur, turning it yellow. Special dryers are available. Sun will also burn the outer coat and turn it brownish. Provide shade for your Samoyed when kept outside.