Shedding in dogs: Seasonal changes, diet or anxiety can cause your furry friend to lose hair

Do you find dog hair on your carpet, your clothes, every piece of furniture and even your food? While shedding is a natural process for dogs and you may complain about it affectionately, be aware of the times when shedding is normal and when it’s not.

Dogs usually shed their hair due to seasonal changes, their health and diet, or their age. Mostly the shedding is normal, however there are times when it may be linked to anxiety or health problems.

Here are some things you should take note of regarding your dog’s shedding, strategies to control it, and when you need a medical intervention.

Why do dogs shed?

Shedding in dogs is a healthy, natural process. Their hair grows in cycles, and as old hair dies, it falls out to make room for new growth.

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Several factors influence shedding in dogs:

• Breed: Some breeds shed more than others. For example, double-coated breeds like German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies are notorious for heavy shedding, while Poodles are known for low shedding.

• Seasonal changes: Many dogs shed more during seasonal changes, typically in spring and fall. During spring, they shed their thicker winter coats, and in fall, they shed summer fur to make way for warmer winter coats.

• Health and diet: A dog’s health and diet can also affect shedding. Poor nutrition, certain health issues, and skin infections can lead to excessive shedding.

• Age: Puppies tend to shed less than adult dogs, but once they reach adulthood, they may shed more as their coat matures.

Types of shedding

Shedding can vary based on your dog's breed, coat type, and environment. Here are the main types of shedding:

• Regular shedding: This is the normal shedding cycle that happens in all dogs, though the amount can vary.

• Seasonal shedding: Many dogs, especially those with double coats, shed seasonally. They typically lose more hair in the spring and fall.

• Stress-related shedding: Dogs may shed excessively when they're anxious or stressed, such as during a move, a vet visit, or even during storms.

• Excessive shedding due to health problems: Shedding can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue, like allergies, skin infections, hormone imbalances, or parasites. If you notice bald spots or very thin fur, it’s best to consult a vet.

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Tips for managing shedding

While you can’t completely stop your dog from shedding, you can manage it better with these tips:

• Regular brushing

Frequent brushing helps remove loose fur and keeps it from ending up all over your home. Different brushes work better for different coat types—undercoat rakes and deshedding tools are great for thick-coated breeds, while bristle brushes work well for short-haired breeds.

• Bathing

Giving your dog a bath every few weeks helps loosen and remove dead hair. Use a gentle dog-specific shampoo to avoid skin irritation. After the bath, make sure to brush your dog while the fur is still damp to remove as much loose hair as possible.

• Healthy diet

A balanced diet with high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids can promote a healthy coat and reduce shedding. Consider consulting with your vet for dietary recommendations.

• Regular vet checkups

If you notice excessive shedding or hair loss, it's a good idea to take your dog to the vet to rule out any health issues like allergies, infections, or hormonal imbalances.

• Hydration

Make sure your dog has access to clean, fresh water at all times, as dry skin can lead to excess shedding.

• Supplements

If your dog has skin or coat issues, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid supplements might help reduce shedding. Always talk to your vet before starting any supplements.

• Avoid stress

Stress can also contribute to shedding. Keep your pet feeling safe and stick to a consistent routine, provide plenty of exercise, and create a calm environment.

When to be concerned about shedding

• While shedding is normal, excessive hair loss, bald spots, or red, irritated skin, persistent scratching or licking on an unusual odour from the coat can indicate a problem. If you notice any of these, it’s time to check in with your vet.

• These could indicate allergies, skin infections, thyroid imbalances, or other health issues that need veterinary attention.

• Unfortunately, you can’t completely get rid of shedding but you can manage it effectively with a little extra care.