How to reduce dog shedding
You can't keep a dog from shedding. But you can choose a dog that doesn't shed as much. There's no such thing as a hypoallergenic dogs but some cause fewer problems than others. They have hair that is more similar to human hair, produce less dander than other dogs, and don't shed.
Feed your dog a healthy diet. When your dog gets good nutrition, their hair follicles become more resilient. Strong follicles can help minimize extra shedding caused by undernourished fur. Keep your pup hydrated.
Visit Your Veterinarian Some canine medical conditions can cause excess shedding. Parasites, fungal infections, stress, and even sunburn are some of the more common problems that will cause your dog to have excessive hair loss. Hormonal issues due to thyroid imbalance can lead to inflamed skin and brittle hair as well.
In healthy dogs, shedding is typically a natural way for your dog to rid itself of the old, unneeded and/or damaged hair that makes up its undercoat. Many breeds grow thicker coats as winter progresses, then lose them in the spring to better regulate their body temps.
Dogs shed to get rid of excess fur, damaged fur, and when the seasons change. You will likely notice that chihuahua shedding seasons are mostly during the spring and fall. Some dogs shed due to allergies, illness, and pregnancy too.
The main reason for this phenomenon are hormonal changes associated with the presence of sunlight, which stimulates hair growth. Just before the cold season kicks in and days gets shorter, your dog will shed the lighter, summer coat and get prepared for the ticker, more protective winter coat.
For most dogs, shedding is an essential part of their skin and fur health. Dogs rid themselves of old or otherwise damaged hair by shedding it. The amount of fur a dog sheds depends on the breed of dog, the time of year, and whether they have a single or double layer of fur.
Seasonal shedding occurs as a result of temperature change. The process, known as "blowing coat" occurs when the weather warms and dogs shed their old winter undercoats to make way for a lighter summer coat.
Labrador Retrievers shed the most during the springtime and wintertime. Labs shed in the winter to produce a new layer of fur to protect against winter elements. They shed in the summer to cool off and not carry such a dense second layer. This is known as “blowing” their coats, or molting season.
Your natural instinct is to bathe your dog when the fur starts flying. Once he's lathered, rinsed, dried and brushed, unfortunately, you might notice more shedding, not less. He's not shedding new fur growth, but all the scrubbing and rubbing can accelerate the natural shedding process.
There are many health reasons why your dog's shedding cycle may suddenly change. According to PetMD, "an infestation of parasites, like fleas, lice or mites, can cause excessive hair loss. Ringworm, dermatitis and certain types of fungal infections, immune diseases and cancers can cause hair loss, too.
The “Smart” Coat The real reason why the double-coated Blue Heeler sheds so much is because their coat is always shedding to adjust to the weather. In other words, these “super smart” coats go through major seasonal shedding. Blue Heelers go through excessive shedding at least twice a year.
Shedding as a natural function In healthy dogs, shedding is typically a natural way for your dog to rid itself of the old, unneeded and/or damaged hair that makes up its undercoat. Many breeds grow thicker coats as winter progresses, then lose them in the spring to better regulate their body temps.