Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in December 2021.
A pet owner has ignited a firestorm of opinions online after revealing why she dyes her large white dog a vibrant shade of red.
Chloe, known on TikTok as @danthebigreddog, frequently showcases her 130-pound Great Pyrenees, Dandy, whose striking red fur has become his signature look. In a series of videos titled “Reasons why I dye my dog red,” Chloe detailed her reasoning behind the unusual choice, sparking both fascination and criticism.
Why Dye a Dog Bright Red?
In her first video, Chloe explained that the color transformation originally began as a Halloween costume, but she loved the result so much that she decided to keep it. She listed several reasons for continuing the practice, the first being pure aesthetics. “He looks adorable in red,” she said.
Beyond the look, Chloe claimed that dyeing Dandy’s fur acts as a deterrent against theft. According to her, Great Pyrenees are a rare breed in her area, and the unusual coloring makes him stand out too much for thieves to target.
Another reason? She enjoys the process. Chloe insists Dandy loves it too, as he receives extra attention and rubs during the grooming sessions. She also noted that the dye—described as a “vegan and cruelty-free product”—makes his coat “shiny and soft.”
She further claimed that the bright color makes her massive dog seem more approachable. “People used to be intimidated by his size, but now they just smile and ask to pet him,” she said.
Mixed Reactions: Cute or Controversial?
While many users found the dog’s resemblance to Clifford the Big Red Dog amusing, others questioned the safety and ethics of altering a pet’s natural appearance.
“He looks like everyone’s favorite childhood comfort dog,” one user commented. Others excitedly referred to him as “Mini Clifford.”
But not all reactions were positive. Several viewers raised concerns about whether frequent exposure to dye could be harmful over time.
Chloe defended her decision, stating that she exclusively uses Opawz dye, a brand specifically formulated for pets. According to the company’s website, its dyes are vegan, cruelty-free, and designed for dogs and horses. However, the site also warns owners to monitor their pets for any signs of allergic reactions.
Despite Chloe’s reassurances, some remained unconvinced. One critic wrote, “If the goal is to prevent theft, you could’ve just painted his tail instead of his entire body.”
The Trend Spreads
Chloe’s viral videos seem to have inspired others to try pet dyeing for themselves. One TikTok user, @isabeastly, attempted to color their own dog but ended up with a mess instead. Their video showed red dye splattered across walls, floors, and a bathtub, prompting a panicked caption: “OMG my landlord is going to take my deposit. Help me!”
While some social media users dismissed the controversy, arguing that “the dog doesn’t care,” experts advise pet owners to be cautious.
According to Petco, dyeing a dog’s fur is safe if done with pet-friendly products, but owners should never use human hair dye, as it contains harmful chemicals. The company also warns that dogs with sensitive skin may react poorly to dyes and advises consulting a veterinarian before attempting any color changes.
As the debate continues, one thing is clear—Dandy’s eye-catching red fur isn’t fading anytime soon.
