How to minimise shedding in dogs
All dogs shed, and some shed more than others. Here are three tips to help reduce the amount of loose hair around your home, and the signs that heavy shedding could point to a health problem worth checking with your vet.
The short answer
You can't stop a dog shedding, but you can help reduce the amount of loose hair. Brush your dog regularly with a brush that suits their coat, make sure they always have fresh water, and ask your vet before adding any supplement, including oils, to their diet. If your dog suddenly sheds much more than usual, or has bald patches or sore, itchy skin, see your vet.
Key considerations
- 01All dogs shed to some extent. Some breeds shed much more than others.
- 02Regular brushing removes loose hair before it ends up on your furniture.
- 03Ask your vet before adding any supplement, including oils, to your dog's diet.
- 04Sudden heavy shedding, bald patches or sore skin can be a sign of a health problem.
Shedding is a common complaint among dog owners. Some breeds shed much more than others, and constant loose hair can be a nuisance, especially for people with allergies.
If you're thinking of buying or adopting a dog and loose hair is a concern, research how much different breeds and types shed before you decide. Every dog sheds to some extent, so you will need to accept some hair around the home.
The good news is that there are things you can do to help reduce the amount of loose hair. Here are three tips.
1. Ask your vet about healthy oils
Some owners add oils to their dog's diet to support their skin and coat:
- Coconut oil may help some dogs' skin and coat.
- Flaxseed oil may help some dogs' skin and coat.
- Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA, and may help some dogs' skin and coat.
Ask your vet before adding any supplement, including oils, to your dog's diet. Your vet can tell you whether a supplement is suitable for your dog and how much to give, and whether a different approach would help more.
2. Brush your dog often
Regular brushing is one of the most effective ways to keep loose hair under control. It removes loose fur before it falls out onto your furniture and clothes.
Choose a brush that suits your dog's coat, as different coats need different brushes. The right brush removes loose hair without pulling or matting the coat. You can find a range of brushes at a pet shop, and staff or a groomer can help you choose one for your dog's coat type.
3. Make sure your dog always has fresh water
Water is essential for your dog's overall health, so make sure they always have fresh, clean water to drink.
Dehydration is serious. A dehydrated dog may have a dry mouth, seem tired or lethargic, and lose their appetite. If you think your dog is dehydrated, contact your vet.
When shedding could be a health problem
Some shedding is normal, but heavy or unusual hair loss can be a sign of an underlying health condition. See your vet if your dog:
- suddenly sheds much more than usual
- has bald patches or thinning fur
- has red, sore, flaky or itchy skin
- keeps scratching, licking or chewing their coat
- seems unwell in any other way
Before you decide
- If you're choosing a dog, have you checked how much that breed or type sheds?
- Do you have a brush that suits your dog's coat?
- Has your dog's shedding changed suddenly, or do they seem itchy or unwell?
Questions readers ask
Can I stop my dog shedding completely?
No. All dogs shed to some extent. Regular brushing can help reduce the amount of loose hair around your home.
Should I give my dog fish oil for shedding?
Ask your vet first. Fish oil may help some dogs' skin and coat, but your vet should advise on whether it is suitable and how much to give.
When is shedding a sign of a problem?
See your vet if your dog suddenly sheds much more than usual, has bald patches, or has sore or itchy skin.
About this article
- Written by Mypetzilla Editorial Team
- Published
- Updated
This article is general pet advice, not veterinary or legal advice. If your pet is unwell, speak to a vet.
On Mypetzilla
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