Woman dyes her dog bright red to prevent theft—sparks debate online
Some praise the unique look, while others question if it's necessary
A dog owner’s unusual method of preventing theft has gone viral, with some applauding her creativity and others questioning her motives. Chloe, the owner of a 2-year-old Great Pyrenees named Dandy, dyes her dog bright red—claiming it makes him less of a target for thieves.
Dandy, a large, fluffy Great Pyrenees, is hard to miss—especially because of his vibrant red fur. Chloe, his owner, shared on TikTok that she uses vegan, pet-safe dye (reportedly from Opawz) to achieve the dramatic look.
The bold choice has drawn mixed reactions. Some people love Dandy’s resemblance to Clifford the Big Red Dog, while others express concern, questioning whether the dye is truly safe or necessary.
@danthebigreddog Damn, Dandy. You’re red!❤️ #clifford #cliffordthebigreddog #bigred #dogsofttiktok #dogmom #dandelion #nostalgia #childrensbooks #funnydog #pawsome ♬ Tasty Carrots by Shou – goalsounds
Why dye a dog red?
Chloe explained in follow-up videos that her decision to dye Dandy red was partly to deter dognappers. She said Great Pyrenees dogs are rare in her area and might attract thieves—but a dog with bright red fur? That’s far less desirable.
She also claimed Dandy enjoys the attention his red fur brings, as he loves people and children. Another reason for the dye job, she said, was to educate others on safe pet-dyeing practices, even posting tutorials for those interested.
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Mixed reactions online
With over 318,000 followers and 10 million likes on TikTok, Dandy has become a social media sensation. However, not everyone is convinced by Chloe’s reasoning.
Critics argue that dyeing a dog does little to prevent theft and suspect the real motive is to gain online attention. Some also worry about the potential long-term effects of dyeing a dog’s fur, even if the products are labeled safe.
Supporters, however, say that as long as the dye is non-toxic and doesn’t harm the dog, there’s nothing wrong with it. Many also point out that Dandy appears happy, well-cared for, and oblivious to his own color.
@danthebigreddog Reply to @cschubach979 this is for you and anyone else asking why? Because we can! That’s why. 🙂 #cliffordthebigreddog #LevisMusicProject #fyp #cute ♬ Island In The Sun – Weezer
What’s next for Dandy?
Despite the controversy, Dandy’s TikTok has been inactive since February, and his Instagram hasn’t been updated since July—when he was seen with his natural white fur after the dye faded. Chloe hinted that he would be “red soon” again, though many commenters urged her to leave him as he is.
What do you think? Is dyeing a dog an innovative way to prevent theft, or is it unnecessary? Let us know your thoughts and share this story!
