- Dogs with thicker fur and double coats are more likely to shed a lot.
- If you have allergies, you should avoid breeds that shed a lot and look for a hypoallergenic breed instead.
- Dogs may shed seasonally or year-round, so the best grooming strategy depends on the kind of dog.
- If your dog sheds excessively, you may need to evaluate whether they have a medical condition or have special nutritional needs.
- Regular brushing and grooming helps control the amount of fur your dog sheds and is critical to their overall health.
Every dog sheds to some degree. Depending on the type and texture of their coat, your dog may shed more at different times of the year or consistently all year long. Shedding helps remove dead skin and hair follicles to keep the scalp and skin healthy. For seasonal shedders, new hair comes in fastest when preparing for temperature changes, such as from cool spring weather into summer or from fall into winter.
Why Does Shedding Matter?
Some people are allergic to pet dander, which often coats the hair that dogs shed. Dogs who shed a lot can irritate allergy sufferers, who are best off with hypoallergenic breeds that don’t shed as much. Dogs who shed a lot require more and frequent grooming and cleaning. Their owners also end up spending more time cleaning their homes, as dog hair can become a trap for dust, bacteria and other airborne pathogens.
Monitoring your dog’s shedding is important because excessive shedding can sometimes indicate something is wrong. Since some dogs are natural shedders, it’s especially important to have a baseline to compare with. When your dog sheds too much or begins to scratch or paw at their skin frequently, it’s time to talk to your veterinarian.