The shedding of hair is a natural process for many animals, and dogs are no exception.
But, does there come a point where we should be worried about our dog shedding too much hair? Can it ever signal something different to the natural shedding process?
Petplan takes a look at what you need to know about your dog’s hair loss …
Why do dogs shed hair?
Most dogs shed hair on a regular basis. But it tends to be more noticeable in springtime.
Often, a dog has a thicker winter coat and, when it warms up, they will shed their hair to stay cool.
This also works the other way round. When autumn begins, they will shed their lighter undercoats to grow a thicker, warmer coat.
However, the amount that a dog sheds often depends on their breed.
Some dogs grow their fur thicker for a longer period, ending up with double coats. These dogs often shed all year round instead of seasonally, needing a lot more grooming than other dogs.
Such breeds include:
- Collies
- Labrador Retrievers
- Corgis
- Spaniels
- Terriers
These dogs who have an inner layer and outer layer of hair only need their inner coat for insulation. Therefore, they shed a lot of hair when the season changes – a whole coat!
Dogs also shed their hair as a form of grooming. It’s a way for them to prevent tangles and mats from appearing in their fur.
How do you know if your dog is shedding too much?
Knowing the difference between hair shedding and fur loss is important so you are able to identify if there are any underlying issues with your pooch.
Baldness should never be seen in a healthy dog’s coat (unless they are bred specifically to be hairless) so losing large clumps of hair is often a sign of hair loss and also an underlying problem, including:
- Allergies (from shampoos or cleaning products for example)
- Skin infections
- Fleas
- Mange
- Poor nutrition
- More serious conditions such as cancer
Dogs can also experience fur loss when they feel stressed as they sometimes chew on their fur due to anxiety.
If you are concerned about your pet excessively shedding their hair, make sure to consult with your vet who will be able to offer expert advice for your specific situation.
The amount of hair your pet will lose when shedding will differ from breed to breed. It is important to notice what is normal for your dog and identify any changes in their shedding behavior.
What can be done about shedding and hair loss?
For seasonal shedding, grooming is a really important factor to consider.
Make sure you brush your dog’s coat regularly to help them shed the extra hair that sticks to their coat. It also prevents dead hair from forming uncomfortable clumps.
Do not shave a dog with a double coat however, as it can affect the dog’s ability to stay warm and, in extreme cases, even lead to alopecia.
Ensure all products your dog comes into contact with are safe (speak to your vet for advice on the best products) for them and keep an eye out for pest bites and allergies which can be even more prevalent in the spring and may lead to hair loss.
If you are concerned about your pet excessively shedding their hair, make sure to consult with your vet who will be able to offer expert advice for your specific situation.
Check out our straightforward guide to grooming your pet to discover the best way to help your dog’s coat stay clean and healthy.
Does your dog shed lots of hair? What are your top grooming tips? Let us know below…