How to Dye a Poodle

Poodles can be dyed in different colors.

The fur of a poodle is versatile, and can be cut and styled into various ways. When owners get their poodles ready for dog shows, there is much preparation. But all of the fluffing, spritzing and teasing pays off when the poodle struts its stuff in front of the judges. A poodle's fur can be dyed easily with nontoxic ingredients that wash out over time. Read on to learn about this fascinating process.

Things You'll Need

• Food coloring
• Water
• Bowl
• Sponge
• Hair dryer

Instructions

1. Fill a large bowl with lukewarm water. If you are using many colors, fill up a few different bowls so each color has its own bowl.

2. Drop three to five drops of food coloring into the bowl of water. Mix it with a spoon and see if it's the color you desire. If you want the color to be darker or more vibrant, add more food coloring. Only add one to two drops at a time, because the color can change quickly.

3. Brush your poodle's fur and get out all of the knots. If you have time, get your poodle groomed so its fur is the right length and shape.

4. Dab the sponge in the colored water and pat it onto the fur that you wish to dye. Continue sponging until the area is thoroughly dyed. If you are using different colors, you should use a new space for each color.

5. Blow dry the poodle's fur so that the color can set. You don't want the dog walking around the house with wet food coloring, because it can get on your furniture and carpet.

Tips & Warnings

• Mix the food colorings to get different shades and colors.

• Avoid your dog's eyes when sponging on the food colored water.