Why do dogs shed? Everything You Need to Know

why do dogs shed

Why do dogs shed? Dog shedding is a natural process.

In this way, dogs lose old and damaged hair, and the amount and frequency of shedding will depend on a large number of factors such as breed, health, or season.

The first step is the most important, so before you take a dog, think carefully about how much time and money you are willing to invest in furniture cleaning and professional grooming.

This text is intended for those owners who face a reality called “excessive shedding of dogs” on a daily basis.

That reality can be quite unpleasant and exhausting.

However, cleaning takes a lot of time, and hair is everywhere: from the kitchen to the bedroom.

We will explain the reasons and point out the best ways to fight this phenomenon (which of course does not mean that you will be able to prevent it).

Why do dogs shed?

When it comes to shedding in dogs, first of all, it is important to accept the fact that all dogs shed, except those who have no hair at all.

It is a normal process, which is not the only natural for dogs but also for humans.

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The shedding of dogs is actually a process of hair renewal, because in that way the dog releases the damaged ones, leaving space for new hair.

There are many reasons for hair loss, but we single out a few of the most common ones.

The breed has a great influence on dogs shedding.

Believe it or not, shedding largely depends on the breed of your dog.

Keep in mind that some dogs shed less and some shed more, depending on the type of hair.

For example, the English Bulldog, Chow Chow, or German Shepherd are among the breeds that often shed, while Maltese or Yorkshire Terriers do not shed at all.

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This means that it is very important to be well informed about the breed of dog you have/want to have because it is the only way to find out if your pet has a predisposition for more frequent shedding.

Seasonal shedding in dogs

In general, most breeds are much more shed seasonally: in spring and autumn.

This type of shedding is a dog’s reaction to temperature changes.

During the spring, dogs shed to get rid of excess hair and prepare well for the summer.

On the other hand, during the fall, pets shed their “summer” hair, changing it for warmer, winter hair.

Most breeds have double layers of hair:

– upper – which you see and feel when you touch your pet
– and undercoat – which is shorter and softer

This means that not all dogs shed the same. Let’s say Shih Tzu and Bishon have less undercoat, which is why they shed less during the season.

Health condition affects shedding

Although it is a natural occurrence, sometimes shedding dogs can indicate some more serious health problems that your dog may have.

Therefore, if you notice an excessive amount of hair in the off-season, take the dog to the vet to determine what the exact cause may be (usually a fungal infection or allergic reaction).

How to control and reduce shedding in dogs?

One of the most common doubts of all owners when it comes to shedding dogs is how long the whole process takes and how to control or reduce it.

Although at first glance it seems like an impossible mission, the shedding of your pet can be kept under control or at least significantly affected.

Here are some important guidelines on how to successfully control your dog’s shedding.

Choose a good brush

Depending on the type of hair and breed of your dog, you will probably need to set aside some time for brushing every day (10 minutes a day).

Therefore, it is very important to choose a good pet brush.

Brush with natural bristles – although it is equally good for all hair types, since it has a slightly wider spacing and longer bristles, it is most suitable for dogs with longer hair.

Pin brush – best for dogs of medium or long and curly hair.

Slicker brush– made of small, wire bristles, perfect for removing tangled, aged hair.

Comb – massages your pet’s skin and helps remove dead hair from short-haired dogs.

Find the perfect FURminator

Whether your dog sheds all year round or just seasonally, the FURminator is definitely one of the things you need to avoid chasing fallen hair around the house.

These are brushes that can reduce dog shedding by up to 90%.

It removes dead and unnecessary hair, thus making your job much easier.

Make healthy eating a priority

A dog that has a complete and balanced diet, will take into the body all the necessary vitamins and minerals that it needs to strengthen the hair and its roots.

Be sure to consult your veterinarian about a diet and possible food supplements that can further improve your pet’s immunity.

Improve your dog’s immune system and highlight the shine and beauty of his fur with the help of this product Petlab Co. Multivitamin Chews

Increase water intake

If your dog is shedding excessively, you may want to pay a little more attention to his water bowl.

It is an unwritten rule that a dog should drink about 30 grams of water per kilogram of body weight during the day.

Have your dog have food and water available at all times (2 – 1) We recommend AmazonBasics Gravity Pet Food Feeder and Water Dispensers

This means that a dog who weighs about 4-5kg should drink a little more than one glass of water a day.

Dehydration can be one of the reasons for excessive pet shedding.

Shedding in dogs is a problem faced by all owners, regardless of the breed of dog.

Some accept it with ease, while for others it causes a problem (most often related to the fact that it is more often necessary to maintain house hygiene than usual).

Excessive shedding in dogs

Normal shedding in dogs should be relatively short (up to 20 days).

However, if shedding takes longer, it could be a sign that your dog is having some problems.

In any case, if excessive shedding is present, it is very important to visit a veterinarian who will advise you on what to do next.

Causes of excessive shedding can be:

– lack of activity and movement,
– stress,
– hormone disorder,
– lack of any of the vitamins,
– decreased immunity,
– unhealthy and improper diet.

On the other hand, if the shedding is seasonal, the most important thing is to be patient and to adhere to the stated things regularly, in order to make that period easier for yourself.


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