How To Reduce Excessive Shedding In Dogs?

Dogs shed fur and it’s nothing to fret about! We humans also shed dead skin cells and hair every day (yes, we do!).

This is completely natural, however, there are a few breeds of dogs such as German Shepherds that shed all year-round. You should be alarmed if your dog starts to shed more than usual.

Climatic conditions, different seasons, and other health factors can cause a dog breed to shed excessively. A puppy that is shedding more than the expected amount might have some health issues or some other underlying condition.

Reduce the excessive shedding in dogs:

Dog hair trimming

Some popular dog breeds such as Poodle and Shih Tzu have a faster hair growth process. They need regular haircuts every 2-4 weeks. Trimming their hair on a regular basis will help to reduce excessive shedding. You can groom their hair by yourself or you can take them to a professional as well.

Feed them premium quality food

One of the most ideal approaches to decrease over-the-top shedding in puppies is, to begin with a good eating routine. Some foods like corn and grains are not easy for a dog to digest. Give them wholesome and nutritional foods to maintain their health.

Premium quality food might cost more, however, they’re better to maintain your dog’s fur coat and reduce excessive shedding. You can consult your vet for the right type of food that can help control excessive shedding in your dog.  You can also nourish your pooch’s diet with extra vitamin supplements.

Add olive oil to your dog food

Olive oil contains omega-3 unsaturated fats that keep your dog’s skin fresh, diminish dandruff, and enhance the general coat surface. Check with your vet before adding supplements to your pooch’s diet. You can also offer natural foods such as salmon, or any other fish that are rich in these greasy acids. Fish skins are a great substitute as well.

Give your dog fresh or clean water

Dehydration can prompt dry skin, which can bring about inordinate shedding and even sickness. Ensure that your dog drinks enough clean and fresh water at regular intervals.

Brush your dog’s coat regularly

Depending on your dog’s coat type, use the right type of brush.

1. Abound brushes – These are best for short-haired, smooth-covered pooch breeds, for example, Terriers, Pugs, and Greyhounds.
2. Slicker brushes – These are useful for the canine breeds with medium or wavy hair, such as Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, and St. Bernard. These brushes have little, firmly stuffed short wire pins.
3. Rakes – These are best for canine breeds with long hair and thick undercoats, for example, Border Collies, German Shepherds, and Chow Chows.

Use de-shedding tools for heavy shedders:

Use these before the spring hits. Spring is the season when canines’ winter coats start to dry off and fall. But don’t worry, they will regain their coat in no time. For dogs with shorter coats, you can use an elastic curry brush to de-shed.

Canines with long or thick coats will require better tools like an undercoat de-tangling rake or a shedding blade. Once they shed all the dry hair, you can use the best vacuum for pet hair to keep your apartment clean. You can always take them to a professional groomer before the spring hits!

Give regular baths to your dog

Regular baths are a good idea but remember that over-washing can bring about dry skin, which makes their fur coat shed more. Learn about your puppy’s breed thoroughly to find out about their bathing requirements, or ask your veterinarian.

Blow-drying after a shower can be useful if your canine has a long coat. You can also towel-dry your puppy and let them shake off the wetness!

Control fleas

If your pup has ticks or fleas then they will continually scratch them out. This can lead to a lot of hair shedding. So keep your pooch free of pests that disturb their skin and can cause excessive shedding. Take your dog to the vet for a proper examination, in case they are scratching themselves too much!

A thorough checkup is always a good idea as a puppy that sheds too much might be having some underlying condition, for example, skin sensitivities, some contamination, or parasites, etc.

 

We hope the above-mentioned steps will help you control the excessive shedding issue in your dog. If you have any queries, feel free to contact us or mention your questions in the comment section below!