23/04/2021
Treat your dog to a bath and a groom before the real heat of summer sets in! When the coat gets matted it traps dirt and grease, it doesn’t dry as quickly when they get wet and can result in skin infections and a very smelly dog!
It’s shedding season so let’s talk about ‘shedding’!
A dog’s coat helps control their body temperature and protects their skin against the sun and other environmental elements.
When a dog’s hair stops growing, they will naturally lose it by shedding.
The amount and frequency of shedding will depend on several factors, including: health condition, breed, season and environment.
Although dogs naturally shed, hair loss can also be caused by stress or health issues. Here are a few of the most common causes of shedding in dogs and what you should look out for.
Seasonal Shedding
Dogs, especially double-coated breeds, typically shed their undercoats during the spring and fall. Undercoats ‘blow out’ in spring and autumn leaving it all over your home and it needs to be brushed out thoroughly.
Heavy-shedding breeds include: German Shepherds, Malamutes, Border Collies, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Beagles, Pomeranian, Akita, Husky.
What might seem like heavy shedding can be completely normal for some dogs, but it can also be the result of an underlying health condition.
Stress-Induced Shedding
If there’s been a big change in your dog’s environment, the amount of hair they shed can increase.
If you think your dog may be experiencing stress- or anxiety-induced shedding, speak to your vet. They can refer you to a qualified veterinary behaviorist.
Skin Issues
Certain skin disorders may also lead to hair loss and bald patches.
For example, 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 also cause hair loss
If you notice skin irritations, like bumps, scabs, or a rash, in addition to hair loss, speak with your veterinarian immediately.
Allergies
Allergies are another cause of shedding in dogs. Certain foods, medications, household cleaners, and grooming supplies may trigger allergic reactions in dogs.
Allergies can be due to: genetic, environmental, seasonal, flea or food reasons.
Your vet can help pinpoint the offending allergen and find the most effective treatment.
How Can I Manage My Dog’s Shedding?
While you can’t prevent a healthy dog from shedding normally, I can recommend grooming tools that will work with your dog’s coat type and to help reduce the amount of shedding and subsequent mess to your home.
Brushing your dog in order to keep the shedding under control can be time consuming and messy. I provide full deshed treatments which include a thorough brush out and a bath with a special deshedding shampoo. Your dog will thank you!