Dog Shedding: How to Stop it & Keep the "Fur" Out of Furniture

Some dogs leave their mark wherever they go. If you find clumps of your pet's hair all over your clothes and furniture, you may be wondering how to stop a dog from shedding. After all, isn't some shedding normal for a dog's hair growth?

 

This guide will answer all of your questions about dog shedding. We'll teach you the difference between normal versus excessive shedding, as well as possible causes for abnormal hair loss. To keep your dog healthy and your home clean, let's first take a look at why dogs shed.

 

 

Why Do Dogs Shed & Is It Normal?

Shedding is a normal part of your dog's hair growth. Many canine breeds prepare themselves for colder months by growing out their hair to insulate their bodies. When the warm weather comes back around, dogs no longer need all that excess hair, so they shed it off.

 

 

Dog Shedding - How Much Is Normal?

Dogs shed various amounts of hair based on their breed (or mix of breeds, for all the mutts out there). You must first determine what normal shedding looks like for your dog before deciding whether it is excessive or not. Since many dogs need more fur to keep themselves warm in cold months, we don't want to stop their shedding entirely.

 

Seasonal shedding is common, though some dog breeds get rid of loose hair year-round. For example, Golden Retrievers shed a TON, so their normal level of shedding would be excessive for a breed that doesn't shed at all, like a Poodle. However, various health conditions can cause an abnormal level of shedding.

 

Once you determine the appropriate level of hair loss for your breed, it is easier to spot excessive shedding. Even if your pet constantly sheds its coat, there are steps you can take to cut down on the amount of dead hair in your home.

 

Shedding Dog Breeds

Some fluffballs can't help sporting a hairy coat. These dogs regularly shed a high volume of hair:

 

• German Shepherd
• Akita
• Bernese Mountain Dog
• Boston Terrier
• Chow Chow
• Alaskan Malamute
• American Eskimo Dog
• Rottweiler
• Labrador Retriever
• St. Bernard
• Keeshond
• Lakeland Terrier
• Pug
• Shiba Inu
• Newfoundland

 

Low Shedding Dog Breeds

If you're wondering, it's impossible to find a dog that doesn't shed at all. Although, some canines shed only a small amount of hair, and they are some of the best pooches for those with allergies. Some low-shedding breeds are:

 

• Basenji
• Chihuahua
• Maltese
• Dachshund
• Bichon Frisé
• Boxer
• Bullmastiff
• Doberman Pinscher
• Greyhound
• Komondor
• Poodle
• Portuguese Water Dog
• Rhodesian Ridgeback
• Saluki
• Schnauzer

 

 

 

 

What Can Make a Dog Shed More Than Normal?

If your dog is shedding more than normal, it could be due to stress, poor nutrition, or underlying medical issues. Dead hair or unhealthy skin can also be the result of improper grooming. Some common causes of excess shedding include:

 

• Sunburns
• Allergies
• Fleas or lice
• Reactions to medicine
• Skin infections
• Pregnancy
• Hormonal imbalances
• Malnutrition
• Cancer

 

When too much shedding occurs, keep an eye out for other signs of medical problems. Your pet's fur might get better on its own, but you should seek professional advice if the problem persists. If you notice any bumps, lesions, or wounds on your canine that refuse to heal, contact your veterinarian immediately.

 

 

How to Stop Dog Shedding

If your home is a flurry of dog fur, we have some techniques that can help you cut down on your pet's shedding. All dogs are unique, so try out a few methods to find the best one. Keep in mind that some breeds shed year-round, and the goal for these dogs is to minimize hair loss rather than eliminate it entirely.

 

Related Article: Dog Hair Loss Home Remedies [The Complete Guide] 

 

Brush Daily

Regular brushing keeps dogs' coats free of loose and dead hair. This is especially important for dogs with long hair because fur can easily become trapped in their coats. Remove this excess hair to help your dog prepare for warmer weather.

 

Brush your dog according to their breed's grooming requirements. For example, a Terrier's coat requires a grooming method known as hand stripping. Other breeds have their own coat needs, so choosing the right brush and routine for your dog is important.

 

Use the Right Brush - Best Dog Brush for Shedding

There are plenty of brushes that are designed with all dog breeds in mind. There are even some brushes that are made for both dogs and cats. However, try to find a brush designed specifically for your pet's type of coat to get the greatest control over its shedding.

 

For breeds with long coats, you'll want a brush that can penetrate their thick hair. A slicker brush has hard wire bristles that can remove tangles and knots during periods of light shedding. When spring comes and shedding picks up, switch to a coat rake or shedding tool.

 

Short-haired dogs and those with barely any hair on their body should still be brushed regularly. Use a natural-bristle brush or a grooming mitt for these dogs. Natural-bristle brushes are sturdy yet gentle, and mitts have soft bristles on the palm so you can groom and pet your dog at the same time!

 

Wash Regularly

Baths are one of the most crucial parts of a healthy grooming routine. The frequency with which you bathe your pet depends on its breed, though you should aim for every 4-8 weeks as a general guideline. Going more than 8 weeks without washing your dog can deteriorate their coat and skin health.

 

Bathing your pet too often can also have consequences. Washing a dog more often than every 4 weeks can dry out their skin. For a full breakdown of each dog group's bathing needs, check out this helpful guide by Petco.

 

If your furry friend competes in dog shows, you may have to bathe it more frequently. In this case, use moisturizing shampoos and conditioners with natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, or cannabidiol (CBD). Avoiding dry or irritated skin will not only reduce shedding but also minimizes the risk of infections.

 

Dog Shampoo For Shedding

Just like we use shampoo in our own hair, dogs benefit from hair-care products designed for canines. Shampoos enrich the skin with essential nutrients and protect hair follicles. Some dog shampoo products have been created specifically with hair loss and de-shedding in mind.

 

Your dog's wellbeing — including its fur and skin — may benefit from the use of CBD. Your dog's endocannabinoid system (ECS) regulates many of your canine's body functions, including those that affect its skin and coat. When you use a nourishing CBD shampoo for dogs, it complements their ECS.

 

Dog Food for Shedding

Healthy nutrition also plays a large role in your dog's shedding patterns. If you're looking to improve their skin or coat health, you may want to switch up their diet. Ingredients that can cut down on loose hair and excess shedding include vinegar, fish oil, oatmeal, yogurt, olive oil, and vitamin E.

 

A balanced diet reinforces a dog's hair follicles. Another vital additive your pet might benefit from is omega fatty acids, which supplement the skin barrier. If your dog isn't getting enough of these fatty acids, you may need a supplement.

 

Use A Fatty Acid Supplement

Omega-3 fatty acids are some of the best ingredients for healthy hair. These fatty acids can be found in the oil of flaxseed, fish, canola, walnuts, and soybeans. Another excellent source of these nutrients is hempseed oil, which can be found in our CBD for dogs.

 

Related Product: CBD Oil Specifically Made For Dogs!

 

Keep Them Hydrated

Dehydrated skin is a major cause of hair loss. When spring and summer months roll around, ensure that your pet has constant access to fresh, clean water. Staying hydrated on the inside keeps the skin moisturized on the outside.

 

Your furry friend's bowl should be replaced with new, clean water at least daily. If the dog's water is left stagnant for extended periods of time, it can attract bacteria. The water should also be replaced as soon as the dog drinks the last of it from their bowl.

 

Plenty of hydration is the cornerstone of any good diet, but take note if your pet is drinking excessive amounts of water. While there is such a thing as drinking too much water (known as water intoxication), this is a rare disease.

 

Though, if your pet can't seem to quench its thirst, there could be an underlying health condition affecting your dog's body. If you notice abnormal thirst, contact your veterinarian.

 

Walk & Exercise Your Dog Normally

Exercise is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of your pooch getting sick. While there is no guaranteed method for protecting canines from illness, regular walks or trips to the dog park are vital for a long and healthy life. Routine exercise for your dog reduces stress (another cause of hair loss) and boosts follicle strength.

 

Getting your furry friend out of the home also allows it to shed in the open air. This frees dead hair from your pet's coat without getting in the way of a clean living space. Spend some time brushing your dog outside so that you don't have to worry about clean-up!

 

Manage Their Stress

Anxiety and stress play a significant role in your pup's health. If your dog is always on edge, its quality of life will suffer in several ways. Stress can cause your pet to overgroom or skip meals, and this takes a toll on their skin and coat health.

 

Thankfully, canine stress is treatable. If your dog can't seem to calm down, try providing them with exercise, affection, or CBD. Cannabidiol can calm skittish dogs and provide them with relief from phobias and other stressors.

 

Use Allergy & Flea Control

Allergies are one of the most common reasons for irritated skin. Canine allergies are relatively common in all breeds, and fleas can afflict any dog. If your pet is leaving clumps of hair all over your furniture, fleas or an allergic reaction may be the cause.

 

The symptoms of both allergies and fleas are fairly similar: itching, scratching, biting at self, and of course, hair loss. Administering an allergy or flea medication is a great way to help your pet's discomfort. Consult a vet before choosing the medication to ensure your dog gets proper care.

 

 

 

 

When To Go To The Vet for Dog Shedding

Shedding should not result in bald patches, redness, or irritated skin. If a foul odor comes from your dog's skin when they shed, it is an indication that something is wrong. Take your pet to the veterinarian to find a solution.

 

Excessive hair loss doesn't always require a trip to the veterinarian, but vigilance is key. While you may already be aware of your dog's allergies, new conditions could cause the pet to lose control of its hair follicles.

 

 

Final Thoughts - How to Stop Dog Shedding

These methods should help you reduce shedding and keep the "fur" out of your furniture. Even if your pet sheds year-round, you can still keep a clean home with routine grooming, adequate exercise, and a balanced diet. For all of the latest pet care information and helpful grooming techniques, HolistaPet has you covered!

 

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