Why Do Dogs Shed?

Dogs with soft, fluffy coats of fur are snuggly and adorable. However, one of the few complaints about dogs is how much they shed. After all, who enjoys constantly picking dog hair off their clothes or cleaning it off the sofa when company visits? Unfortunately, shedding is universal across all canines, even in dogs that are supposed to be “non-shedding” or “hypoallergenic.” It’s something that all dog owners must be prepared to manage. So, why do dogs shed, and what can you do about it?

Understanding Dog Hair

Their fur is one of many things that make dogs so adorable. However, its purpose extends far beyond aesthetics. Fur helps dogs control their body temperature, allowing them to stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Their coats also shield them from the sun and other potentially harmful environmental factors. For example, in the winter, a good coat of fur can keep moisture at bay.

Dogs typically have two types of hair:

• Primary Hair: Also known as the outercoat or guard hairs. Primary hair is longer and coarser than the underlying layer on most dogs. It generally grows more slowly than the hair below.
• Secondary Hair: Also known as the undercoat. Secondary hair is located beneath primary hair. It tends to be softer. It also usually grows faster than the primary hair.

Most dogs have both primary and secondary hair. However, dogs that are referred to as “double-coated,” such as Siberian Huskies and Labradors, have distinct, separate layers. These dogs have a soft, dense undercoat to provide insulation and a coarse, water-repellent outercoat. Double-coated dogs shed their undercoats seasonally. Single-coated dogs, like Boxers and Dobermans, shed throughout the year. They shed hair at the end of the growth cycle so new hairs can grow.

Top Factors Affecting How Much a Dog Sheds

There are a number of different factors affecting how much a dog sheds. Some of the top factors include: the breed, the season, stress, skin issues, allergies, pregnancy, and age. Take a deeper dive into these issues below.

Breed

Some breeds of dogs shed more than others. As we noted above, dogs with double coats such as Siberian Huskies, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Samoyeds, Chow Chows, and Alaskan Malamutes typically shed their dense undercoats seasonally, though the timing and frequency can vary. Low-shedding breeds include Poodles, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Shih Tzus, and Irish Water Spaniels.

Season

Some breeds shed more evenly throughout the year, but double-coated breeds shed more in the spring and fall because of seasonal temperature changes. Sometimes referred to as “blowing coat,” this involves shedding the heavy winter undercoat during the spring and shedding the lighter undercoat during the fall. Outdoor dogs are more subject to seasonal variations than indoor pooches, who are less affected by changes in sunlight and temperature in the winter and summer.

Stress

Stress-induced shedding is a common phenomenon experienced by most dogs at certain times in their lives. A major change in environment, such as moving to a new home, can trigger excessive shedding. Going to the veterinarian’s office can be stressful for many dogs, causing them to shed more. Additionally, anxiety and other underlying issues can trigger more shedding than usual. Veterinarians can prescribe anti-anxiety medications and other treatments to address such issues.

Skin Issues

Sometimes dogs start shedding more than usual because of underlying skin problems. In such instances, you may notice areas of sparse hair or even bald spots caused by parasites like mites, lice, and fleas. Conditions such as dermatitis, ringworm, and various fungal infections can also trigger excessive hair loss in dogs. Underlying immune disorders and other illnesses can also affect the skin, causing heavier and more frequent shedding.

Allergies

Allergic reactions are sometimes responsible for excessive shedding in dogs. These reactions can be triggered by many things, including certain foods, grooming supplies, medications, household cleaners, or fleas. If your dog is shedding more than usual, a veterinarian can help identify and treat the underlying allergens.

Pregnancy

While pregnant, a dog is more likely to suffer from nutritional deficiencies that trigger excessive hair loss. Low calcium levels are a common culprit, but pregnant dogs can also be deficient in other crucial nutrients.

Age

Puppies also shed. Most breeds are born with coats that are soft, delicate, and fluffy. They generally shed their newborn coats at around four to six months of age, and their thicker adult coats start coming in. The adult coat can take some time to fully develop in certain breeds. For example, it can take up to two years for a Pomeranian’s adult coat to grow.

Tips for Managing Shedding in Dogs

Shedding and dogs go hand-in-hand. Most dog lovers are more than willing to put up with a little dog hair in exchange for their companionship. Fortunately, there are ways to keep shedding to a minimum. Keep the following tips in mind to help minimize shedding in your dog.

Don’t Shave Off Their Fur

Although shaving a dog’s fur may seem like a logical way to keep shedding at bay, it may be one of the worst things you can do. The undercoat grows in more quickly than the outercoat, so there will be no guard hairs to protect it, and the undercoat can become matted. In some cases, it compromises the structure of the guard hairs, so they may not grow back properly. Shaving a dog’s fur also interferes with its natural self-warming and self-cooling mechanisms, making it harder for the dog to stay comfortable.

Groom Your Dog Regularly

Having your dog properly groomed on a regular basis is one of the best ways to keep shedding to a minimum. Use a good shampoo made specifically for dogs, or whatever type your groomer recommends for your breed, to keep their fur strong, shiny, healthy, and less likely to fall out.

Brush Your Dog Often and with the Right Tools

Consult with a professional groomer or veterinarian for advice on which types of brushes to use on your canine friend. Make a point of brushing your dog regularly to minimize how much fur is shed. As a general rule, bristle brushes are ideal for dogs with coarse fur, while pin brushes are best for dogs with long, silky hair.

Feed Your Dog a Healthy Diet

Since underlying nutritional deficiencies can wreak havoc on a dog’s skin and hair, it is important to ensure they have a healthy diet with essential nutrients. Fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6 acids, are beneficial for maintaining healthy skin and hair. Many supplements and foods include these fatty acids, along with things like vitamin E and zinc. However, it is best to consult your veterinarian before beginning any supplements.

Control Fleas and Allergies

As noted previously, excessive shedding may occur due to various allergic reactions. Fortunately, a veterinarian should be able to pinpoint the problem and provide appropriate treatment. Excessive scratching from fleas and other pests can trigger excessive molting, so make sure to provide your dog with quality tick and flea treatments to keep such issues at bay.

Avoid Gimmicky Treatments

Finally, although solutions like dog-shedding suits sound promising, most pups detest them and are miserable wearing them. Therefore, as tempting as it may be to invest in one, it’s generally best to stick with the techniques and options outlined above and accept that shedding is a fact of life for dogs.