Why is my dog shedding so much?

There are many reasons why your dog sheds fur, and rest assured that most of them are perfectly natural and healthy. The only real concern is the excessive amount of vacuuming!

Shedding occurs due to the natural hair growth cycle in dogs. As old or damaged hair falls out, it makes room for new hair growth.

What Affects Shedding?

The two biggest natural influences on shedding are seasonal changes and breed type.

Seasonal Shedding

Most dog breeds experience seasonal shedding unless you have a non-shedding breed such as a Poodle or a Poodle mix. The peak shedding seasons are spring and autumn. During these times, dogs shed their lighter summer coat to make way for their thicker winter coat, or vice versa.

Breed-Specific Shedding

Some breeds shed more heavily than others, particularly those with double coats rather than single coats. Double-coated breeds have two layers:

1. A fluffy undercoat for cooling in summer and insulation in winter.
2. A coarser overcoat for protection against the elements.

Examples of double-coated breeds include:

• Saint Bernard
• Labrador Retriever
• Golden Retriever
• Husky
• German Shepherd
• Pug
• Beagle

When Should You Be Concerned About Shedding?

As a pet parent, it's important to recognise normal shedding versus excessive shedding.

If you notice a sudden increase in hair loss, it could be caused by the following factors:

• Excessive Stress – Just like humans, dogs can shed more when stressed or anxious. Major changes in their routine or environment can trigger this.
• Allergies – One of the most common reasons for excessive shedding. Allergies can be triggered by food, environmental factors, or grooming products. Signs of allergies include excessive licking (especially of paws), scratching, and skin redness.
• Parasites – Fleas and ticks can irritate your dog’s skin, leading to increased shedding. Regular parasite control is essential to prevent this.
• Poor Nutrition – A diet lacking essential nutrients like omega fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals can lead to excessive hair loss and poor coat health.

If you're concerned about your dog’s shedding or notice any unusual hair loss, consult your vet to identify the underlying cause.

How to Manage Your Dog’s Shedding at Home

Here are some top tips to help control shedding and keep your dog’s coat healthy:

• Regular Brushing – Brushing removes loose fur before it sheds around the house. The frequency depends on your dog’s coat type and the season. Some dogs need daily brushing, while others only require weekly grooming.
• A deshedding tool - there are lots of great products on the market designed specifically to remove dead hair from your dog, do you research and find out the best option for your lifestyle. We would recommend Groomi. 
• Bathing – Regular baths with the appropriate shampoo help loosen and remove dead hairs. During shedding season, increase the frequency of baths. Shampoos like DotDotPet’s Double Coat contain prebiotics that support healthy skin and coat, reducing excessive shedding.
• Balanced Diet – Ensure your dog receives enough essential vitamins and minerals to promote healthy skin and fur. DotDotPet’s Multifits multivitamins contain plasma and collagen, which help reduce inflammation and improve coat health.
• Hydration – Always provide fresh water. Dehydration can lead to dry skin, which increases shedding.

Final Thoughts

Shedding is a normal process for dogs, but understanding what’s normal for your breed and managing it effectively can keep your pup’s coat in top condition.

For award-winning shampoos and vet-endorsed multivitamins to help manage shedding, check out DotDotPet’s Deshedding Bundle the perfect combination of products for shedding dogs.