Shedding. Acknowledging that it is inevitable is one of those unspoken agreements almost every pet owner makes when adopting a forever friend. And whether it’s hundreds of stray hairs or clumps of fur dotting the house, it happens with almost every dog. Many dogs shed throughout the year. For other breeds, the season can be the reason why your dog sheds. But all dogs do it and it’s a completely natural part of making room for new growth. Still, that doesn’t mean it can’t be a colossal aggravation.
Undercoat and Overcoat
Did you know your dog was such a meticulous dresser? It’s true. Even if they’re not aware of it themselves.
Many dogs have two coats. The outer layer may be short, long, thick, curly, soft, straight, or any other combination of attributes. This beautiful bevy of fur is likely a big part of why you fell in love with your pet. And guess what? It can be shed all year long.
A secondary undercoat is somewhat softer and serves to insulate your dog from fluctuating weather conditions and temperatures. Also known as a “blowing coat,” shedding of this fur tends to increase during two times of the year. In the spring, the undercoat is shed because that extra warmth is no longer needed as warmer days approach. Then, in the fall, a lighter blowing coat is shed to leave room for a thicker, more protective undercoat.
To understand why your dog sheds more fully, it is important to know the four phases of hair growth for your pet.
- Active growth
- Transitional phase. Here, hair ceases growth and the outer root sheath connects to the hair.
- Resting phase. Hair neither grows nor sheds.
- Shedding. Out with the old, in with the new.
Other Reasons Your Dog May Be Shedding
Of course, there may be several other reasons why your dog sheds, beyond the natural loss of the over and undercoat. If your pet appears to be shedding more than usual – or if shedding is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to rule out illness, allergies, and even fleas and ticks.
Potential causes for shedding can include:
- Skin allergies, which are common and can be addressed with veterinary care.
- Fleas, which can be eliminated with veterinarian-recommended medications and/or treatments.
- Pregnancy, which is a less common cause.
- Illness
Taking Steps to Control Shedding
When it comes to controlling your dog’s shedding, the most obvious route is often the most effective.
- Daily brushing
- Weekly baths
- Training your dog to sleep on its bed, or an old blanket (not the couch)
- Continuous, diligent vacuuming
That being said, nonstop brushing, bathing, and cleaning can be a monotonous, time-consuming chore, and many pet owners are desperate to find an alternative. For many, professional grooming is worth every penny, saving precious time and resources.
Finding Professional Assistance
Green Acres Pet Resort’s professional groomers regularly help dogs look and feel better with comprehensive skin and coat care and shedding control treatments. Topnotch shampoos and hair products remove dead hair while conditioning the root and follicle. This loosens resting hair that is getting ready to be shed, and expert brushing techniques remove it before it ends up on your carpet.
Shedding control treatments at Green Acres Pet Resort can reduce shedding by up to 80% when perfumed on a schedule appropriate for your dog’s coat type.
Of course, any professional shedding control plan also takes time and commitment on your behalf. The groomers at Green Acres can help you establish a regimen that offers long-lasting relief and virtually eliminates shedding in your home.
Our grooming services are also available 7 days a week, by appointment.