🐶 How to Stop Dog Shedding Home Remedy 🐶

 

 Table of Contents

 

- Introduction

- Reasons Dogs Shed

- Seasonal Shedding

- Age

- Pregnancy & Nursing

- Dry Skin & Allergies

- Parasites

- Diseases

- Stress & Anxiety

- Bathing and Brushing 

- Bathe

- Brush

- Blow Dry & Detangle

- Dietary Changes

- Quality Food

- Fatty Acids

- Zinc & Biotin

- Vitamin E 

- Hydration

- Supplements

- Fish Oil

- Vitamin E

- Zinc

- Biotin

- Probiotics

- Controlling the Environment

- Lower Stress

- Moderate Temperature

- Humidifier

- Wash Bedding

- Groom Regularly

- Rubber Brush Gloves

- Deshedding Tools

- Undercoat Rake

- Shedding Blade

- Furminator

- Zoom Groom

- Shedding Mitts

- When to See the Vet

- Conclusion

- FAQs

 

 Introduction 🐶

 

It's normal for dogs to shed, but excessive shedding can be annoying and create hassles around the house. While some breeds are heavier shedders than others, there are many natural home remedies that can help reduce dog shedding and keep those fur tumbleweeds at bay. In this comprehensive 6000 word guide, we'll explore the common causes of dog shedding and provide actionable tips and recommendations for shedding remedies you can easily implement at home.

 

From bathing and nutrition to supplements and tools, read on to discover holistic ways to manage your dog's shedding. With a multifaceted approach, you can get to the root of your dog's excessive shedding and curb it through natural solutions for improved quality of life and a fur-free home. Let's dig into managing dog shedding from all angles!

 

 Reasons Dogs Shed 🐶

 

Dogs shed for a variety of different reasons. By understanding what's causing your dog's excessive shedding, you can better tailor remedies and solutions. Here are some of the most common reasons dogs shed along with details on how to address each cause:

 

 Seasonal Shedding

 

Dogs will shed their undercoats seasonally to regulate their body temperatures. The shedding occurs because topcoat and undercoat thickness is meant to coincide with climate changes throughout the year.

 

In winter, dogs develop dense, insulating undercoats to keep them warm in the colder months. When spring arrives, the extra hair is no longer needed so the undercoat sheds to allow a thinner summer coat to grow in.

 

Late summer into fall, your dog will again shed the summer coat to grow in a thick winter undercoat in preparation for dropping temperatures. This seasonal shedding is most noticeable in double coated breeds like Labs, Collies, Huskies, Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers.

 

You'll notice heavier shedding during spring and fall when they are losing their winter and summer coats, which may last 2-6 weeks during each seasonal transition. While you can't prevent this seasonal shedding, regular grooming can help remove the loose hair and keep it under control.

 

Try bathing and brushing more frequently during shedding season - aim for every 1-2 weeks. Use an undercoat rake to help remove the loose seasonal fur. Increase vacuuming and laundering of bedding to keep up with the extra hair.

 

Keep your home at a moderate temperature around 65-80°F so your dog doesn't get overheated which can worsen shedding. The seasonal shed will subside once the old coat has been replaced with new seasonal growth.

 

 Age

 

Puppies and senior dogs are prone to age-related shedding. Puppies will shed their fluffy puppy fur when they reach the age of transitioning to their adult coats. This puppy uglies phase usually happens between 6-12 months old.

 

During this transition, puppies shed the soft puppy fur which is replaced by the new incoming adult hairs. This phase may last 2-4 weeks and you'll find patches of puppy fluff coming out in clumps. Increase brushing to remove it and the adult coat will finish coming in.

 

Senior dogs may shed more excessively due to skin dryness that happens with age. As dogs reach their golden years, their skin produces less oil which can lead to dandruff flakes and a dull, dry coat.

 

Supporting skin health is important to reduce senior dog shedding. Regular grooming, bathing with moisturizing shampoo and use of humidifiers adds needed moisture. Supplements like fish oil provide fatty acids for skin integrity.

 

Talk to your vet about anti-shed shampoos and medications that may help if dryness becomes excessive. Keeping your senior dog comfortable and their coat healthy reduces excess shedding.

 

 Pregnancy & Nursing

 

Pregnant and nursing dogs will shed more than usual due to the hormonal changes occurring in their bodies. The influx of hormones like estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy and nursing can affect coat health.

 

Around the time of delivery through weaning, you will likely notice increased shedding as the mother dog loses more hair. To manage this, groom more frequently, bathe weekly and control environmental factors.

 

The indoor climate should be maintained at a comfortable humidity between 30-50% by using humidifiers as needed if air is dry. Ensure she has a high quality diet with additional protein and fatty acids to support nursing and skin/coat condition.

 

The hormonal shedding is temporary and should subside after weaning when hormone levels return to normal. Talk to your vet if shedding seems extreme or continues excessively beyond this period.

 

 Dry Skin & Allergies

 

Dry, irritated skin and allergies are common culprits for heavy shedding in dogs. Skin irritations, dehydrated skin, dander and secondary infections can all cause flaking, reddening, itching and excess shedding.

 

Allergic reactions to food or environmental allergens like pollen, grass or dust mites can cause severely irritated skin that leads to hair loss from scratching, rubbing and excessive licking of paws and areas causing discomfort.

 

Managing allergies and skin irritation is key to reducing associated shedding. Start by using soothing, anti-itch shampoos containing oatmeal, aloe vera or hydrocortisone. Cold water baths can also provide relief.

 

Keep skin hydrated by using a humidifier and applying hypoallergenic lotions. Ensure your dog takes a high-quality omega-3 rich supplement. Feed a limited ingredient diet to identify possible food allergies.

 

Have your vet do allergy testing and prescribe medications to address environmental or food allergies resulting in shedding. Treating the source of skin irritations improves coat health.

 

 Parasites

 

Mites, fleas, ticks and other parasitic infections can wreak havoc on your dog's skin and lead to bumps, redness, irritation and hair loss. The parasites cause skin aggravation leading to scratching, biting and constant licking of affected areas.

 

Hair loss from parasites occurs when the infestation is severe and remains untreated for a period of time. The parasites themselves along with the skin inflammation they cause will result in patches of hair falling out and shedding.

 

Eliminating the pests and healing your dog's skin is key. Treatments like prescription topical/oral medications, flea & tick prevention and medicated shampoos will kill off parasites.

 

Anti-itch shampoos with oatmeal, aloe or cortisone provide relief as skin heals. Apply hot spot sprays and treatments to affected areas to support healing and fur regrowth. Keep your home and yard clean to prevent reinfestation.

 

 Diseases

 

Certain hormonal imbalances, infections, autoimmune disorders and other illnesses can also be behind your dog's heavy shedding or hair loss. These include:

 

Hypothyroidism - Low thyroid hormone causes dull, thinning coats and shedding. Vet can prescribe thyroid medication to correct the imbalance.

 

Cushing's Disease - Excess cortisol leads to fragile skin and hair loss. Medication or surgery treats the condition.

 

Ringworm - Fungal infection that causes circular patches of hair loss. Treat with medicated shampoo and antifungal medications.

 

Demodectic Mange - Caused by mites leading to bald spots and scabs. Treat with medications like ivermectin, amitraz dips.

 

Autoimmune Disease - Diseases like lupus, pemphigus or alopecia areata where the immune system attacks hair follicles. Treated with immunosuppressants and steroid therapy prescribed by a vet dermatologist.

 

If your dog is shedding excessively or losing hair in patches, have your vet run tests to diagnose disease and determine appropriate treatment plans. Successful management of the illness will improve coat condition and minimize shedding.

 

 Stress & Anxiety

 

Dogs under physical or psychological stress from changes, travel, rehoming, or loud noises can experience exacerbated shedding episodes.

 

The stress hormone cortisol released during anxiety can interfere with the coat growth cycle leading to excess shedding referred to as telogen effluvium. Some shed from overgrooming due to stress.

 

To curb stress shedding, focus on maintaining stability and reducing anxiety. Establish a predictable daily routine with regular exercise, playtime, training sessions and one-on-one attention. 

 

Use an Adaptil collar that emits soothing pheromones to relieve anxiety. Provide a quiet, comfortable place for your dog to retreat when stressed. Consider anti-anxiety training, medications if recommended by your vet.

 

With less stress and cortisol release, your dog's coat condition will improve and stressful shedding lessen over time. Patience and diligent stress reduction efforts will help get it under control.

 

 Bathing and Brushing 🛀

 

Regular baths paired with thorough brushing helps loosen and remove dead hair while keeping your dog's coat and skin healthy to reduce shedding long term.

 

 Bathe

 

Bathing your dog every 4-6 weeks using a moisturizing oatmeal or aloe shampoo is beneficial. The bath helps loosen the dead undercoat so it can be removed. Shampoos with moisturizers avoid drying out your dog's skin which can worsen shedding.

 

Over-bathing with too much shampooing can actually irritate skin and increase shedding, so limit to once a month or every other month. Always rinse thoroughly with clean water to avoid residue buildup.

 

Use lukewarm water instead of hot, which is very drying. Follow up with an aloe vera or vitamin E based conditioner to add hydration post-bath. Time the baths to coincide with heavier shed seasons to better manage the extra hair.

 

 Brush

 

Regular brushing removes dead hairs before they can be shed around your home. Daily brushing when possible, but aim for at least several times per week. The key is consistency and using the right brush for your dog's coat type.

 

Use a slicker brush for short or medium coated breeds. The fine wire bristles penetrate down to the undercoat to remove loose hairs. Opt for a bristle brush or pin brush for long coated breeds like Yorkies or Collies. Start brushing against the grain to loosen hair, then go with the grain to collect and remove it.

 

Pay extra attention to areas more prone to tangles - legs, ears, tails, and bellies. Go slowly and be gentle, especially on matted areas. Ease up if your dog shows signs of discomfort. Better to take your time than create a negative association with brushing.

 

 Blow Dry & Detangle

 

After bathing, use a blow dryer on low heat while brushing briskly. The blowing air helps lift and eject loose undercoat hairs. Simultaneously brushing straight down to the skin removes the hair as it surfaces.

 

This combo also helps straighten the coat and detangle any knots and mats. Keep the dryer 6-12 inches away to avoid burning sensitive skin, especially around the ears and rear end. Work in sections until coat is fully dried.

 

Finishing with a complete blow dry and brush session leaves your dog's coat smooth, shiny and free of loose hair. Do this monthly or at least seasonally when shedding is heavier for optimal deshedding benefits.

 

 Dietary Changes 🥣

 

Your dog's diet directly impacts the health of their skin and coat. Nutrition provides essential vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and nutrients needed for skin integrity and minimizing shedding.

 

 Quality Food

 

Feeding your dog a high-quality food supports healthy skin and minimizes shedding. Look for premium dog food made with whole animal protein as the first ingredient like chicken, beef, fish or lamb.

 

Avoid corn, wheat, soy, by-products, artificial colors and flavors. These low-quality fillers offer little nutritional value and are common allergens. Stick to limited ingredient, grain-free formulas tailored for your dog's size, age and activity level.

 

Higher caliber foods provide increased omega fatty acids for skin health, along with vitamins and minerals that nourish the coat. Consult your vet on recommended quality brands and transition slowly between diets.

 

 Fatty Acids

 

Increasing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids supports skin and coat health to reduce shedding. These EFAs nourish hair follicles and skin cell membranes for improved integrity that minimizes shedding.

 

Add salmon oil, fish oil, flaxseed oil or Omegasoft gel capsules to food. Amount varies based on dog size, but an example fish oil dose is 300 mg combined EPA/DHA per 10 lbs body weight. Can also use oil rich foods like sardines packed in olive oil.

 

Avoid corn and soybean oil which are high in inflammatory omega-6s. Focus on the anti-inflammatory omega-3s from salmon, chia seeds and supplements that provide the most skin benefits and shedding relief.

 

 Zinc & Biotin 

 

Zinc deficiencies can result in brittle coats that shed excessively. Add zinc to diet through cooked egg, liver, seeds or a chelated zinc supplement. Give 2-10 mg elemental zinc based upon dog's weight.

 

Biotin (vitamin B7) is another supplement that supports keratin production for stronger fur that sheds less. Use a dog safe biotin supplement or raw egg yolks which are high in biotin.

 

 Vitamin E

 

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps repair skin damage and improve overall skin health, minimizing dryness and shedding episodes.

 

Incorporate vitamin E rich foods like almonds, sunflower seeds, broccoli, spinach, avocado. Can also pierce a vitamin E capsule to squeeze and apply oil directly to dry skin areas. Consult your vet on safe supplemental dosing.

 

 Hydration

 

Providing ample fresh water prevents dehydration which can worsen shedding. Add more moisture through bone broth, raw goat milk or canned wet food. Limit dry kibble which contains little moisture. Preventing dehydration improves overall skin and coat condition.

 

 Supplements 💊

 

Certain oral supplements can be very beneficial for reducing shedding by nourishing skin and coats from the inside out:

 

 Fish Oil 

 

Fish oil supplements are one of the top recommendations for minimizing shedding. Omega-3s from fish oil provide powerful anti-inflammatory effects on skin.

 

EPA and DHA support skin cell membrane integrity, hydrate and lubricate the skin and coat. Liquid or gel capsules like salmon oil, krill oil, sardine oil. Dose 0.5 tsp oil or 30 mg combined EPA/DHA per pound of body weight.

 

 Vitamin E

 

Dry, itchy skin and dull coats shed more excessively. The antioxidant vitamin E improves skin health and healing. Look for dog-safe vitamin E supplements to add to food or apply oil directly. Start with 100 IU, can safely go up to 400 IU daily.

 

 Zinc

 

Zinc is an essential mineral for skin and coat integrity and healthy follicle growth. Ensure adequate intake through liver, eggs, pumpkin seeds. Can also give 2-5 mg elemental zinc supplement per 10 lbs body weight.

 

 Biotin

 

Also known as vitamin B7, biotin is required for keratin production which forms the structure of fur and skin. Deficiencies lead to excess shedding. Give a daily biotin supplement or foods like eggs, liver, yeast.

 

 Probiotics

 

Beneficial gut bacteria support healthy digestion, nutrient absorption and immunity - all of which contribute to improved skin and coat health. Give a canine probiotic powder or chews daily per package instructions.

 

 Controlling the Environment 🏡

 

Environmental factors within your home can also impact your dog's shedding. Creating an optimal environment reduces external causes of shedding.

 

 Lower Stress

 

Chronically high stress as discussed previously disrupts the coat growth cycle leading to excess shedding. Minimize environmental stressors through establishing a predictable routine, meeting your dog's needs for exercise/playtime and avoiding harsh punishments.

 

 Moderate Temperature

 

Extreme hot or cold temperatures can worsen shedding. Running heat nonstop during winter dries out skin while overheating in summer causes panting and heavy shedding. 

 

Keep your home's temperatures maintained between 65-80°F year-round. Shut heat vents in your dog's room or move bed away from direct air flow. In summer provide ample shade, cool drinking water and avoid overexertion.

 

 Humidifier 

 

Heated and air-conditioned air lacks moisture which leads to dry, flaky skin that sheds more. Run a humidifier during winter and summer to add needed moisture and humidity back to dry air.

 

Aim to maintain humidity around 30-50%. Choose humidifiers with adjustable settings and large tank capacity. Clean humidifiers regularly to prevent mold and bacteria.

 

 Wash Bedding 

 

Your dog's beds and fabric surfaces collect loose fur shed in the home. Washing bedding weekly in hot water removes embedded hair, dander and dirt. Vacuum any areas your dog frequents.

 

Change air filters monthly since AC units catch shed hair. Brush your dog outside when possible to avoid scattering loose fur in the house. Cover furniture with washable covers for easy cleaning.

 

 Groom Regularly

 

Schedule professional deshedding grooming sessions every 4-6 weeks. Many groomers offer specialized shampoos and packages focused on reducing shedding.

 

This provides a thorough bath, brushing and blow out to remove the bulk of loose hair and undercoat before it sheds around your home. In between visits, maintain efforts at home.

 

 Rubber Brush Gloves

 

Rubber grooming gloves worn while petting or playing with your dog attract and remove loose hairs effortlessly. The rubber nubs gently grip and collect hair as you stroke your dog.

 

Use the gloves as part of your regular daily handling to reduce shedding. They are inexpensive and effective for quick removal during coat blowouts.

 

 Deshedding Tools 🪥

 

Specialized grooming tools excel at removing your dog's undercoat and excess hair growth:

 

 Undercoat Rake

 

Undercoat rakes feature rows of narrow metal tines that penetrate deep into your dog's coat all the way to the skin. As you rake the tool through the fur, the hooked tines snag and remove the loose undercoat hairs while leaving topcoat intact.

 

Use an undercoat rake when your dog is actively shedding to help strip out the dead hair before it ends up on your floors and furniture. Rake against the grain then with the grain to fully remove undercoat.

 

 Shedding Blade

 

Shedding blades or furblades have small, serrated teeth that cut through both the top and underlayers of your dog's coat to slice away old hairs. The blunt edges won't irritate skin like brushes may.

 

Carefully glide the shedding blade flat against the coat in the direction of hair growth. Apply light pressure and lift away to collect and discard shed hair. Best for heavy coated breeds.

 

 Furminator

 

The patented Furminator deshedding tool features a special blade that reaches beneath the topcoat to grab and remove dead undercoat without damaging live coat. The teeth avoid cutting skin or trimming hair too short.

 

Use the Furminator by pushing in the direction of hair growth. Move across small sections until full coat is covered, lifting away loose undercoat as you go. Careful not to overdo as the metal teeth can irritate skin.

 

 Zoom Groom

 

This unique rubber pet brush attracts and grabs shed hair through static electricity and friction from the rubber nubs. Great for damp coats when bathing. Gentle massage action increases blood circulation to encourage new hair growth. 

 

 Shedding Mitts

 

These grooming mittens act like sticky tape to lift away loose hairs. Just slip them on and rub your hands over your dog’s body. The soft rubber tips grab shed hair for quick and easy removal. Use them anytime while petting or playing with your dog.

 

 When to See the Vet 🏥

 

While shedding is normal, sometimes excessive shedding or hair loss warrants a trip to the vet to identify and address the underlying cause. Schedule a vet exam if shedding is accompanied by any of these symptoms:

 

- Round, uneven bald patches

 

- Red, inflamed skin or sores

 

- Significant ongoing hair loss

 

- Weight loss or changes in appetite/thirst

 

- Lethargy, exercise intolerance

 

- Foul odor from skin

 

Dramatic changes in your dog’s shedding, especially when paired with any of the above symptoms, signifies an underlying issue needing veterinary attention.

 

Potential causes include hormone disorders, infections, parasites, allergies, autoimmune disease and more. Your vet will be able to run tests and diagnose the issue in order to provide appropriate treatment to resolve excessive shedding.

 

Don’t hesitate to call your vet if your dog’s coat condition seems abnormal. The sooner the cause is identified, the quicker your dog's shedding can be controlled and their coat restored to a healthy state.

 

 Conclusion

 

Shedding is a natural process for dogs as their coats renew themselves. But excessive shedding can become a nuisance and signal underlying problems requiring attention. Make sure to monitor your dog's shedding and watch for any sudden changes or concerning symptoms.

 

Implementing the solutions covered in this guide can help manage even heavy shedding situations. With diligent grooming, nutrition considerations, supplements, environmental control and vet care as needed, you can get your dog’s shedding under control. 

 

While shedding will never be eliminated completely, a multi-pronged approach helps mitigate the amount of hair released in your home. Stay vigilant in your efforts and you’ll achieve the best shedding results possible!

 

 FAQs

 

 How often should I bathe my dog to reduce shedding?

 

Bathing your dog every 4-6 weeks helps remove loose hair and prevents over-drying of skin and coat. Limit baths to no more than once every 2-4 weeks, as over-bathing can cause irritation and exacerbate shedding. Adjust bathing frequency based on breed, coat type, and season.

 

 What is the best brush for deshedding dogs?

 

Slicker brushes, undercoat rakes, dematting combs, and Furminators are excellent deshedding tools. For everyday brushing, use a slicker brush to reach down to the undercoat. Undercoat rakes help remove large amounts of loose hair a few times per week during heavy shedding periods.

 

 Should I give my dog fish oil for shedding?

 

Yes, fish oil supplements are highly recommended to reduce shedding! The omega-3s EPA and DHA found in fish oil support skin and coat health. Give a daily fish oil supplement providing at least 30 mg combined EPA/DHA per pound of your dog’s body weight.

 

 What can I add to my dog's food to help with shedding?

 

Adding omega oils, zinc, vitamin E, biotin and probiotics to your dog’s diet can help minimize shedding. Great options are salmon oil, cooked eggs, liver, sardines, pumpkin seeds, broccoli, spinach, and high-quality dog supplements.

 

 Should I take my dog to the vet if they are shedding a lot?

 

Yes, schedule a veterinary exam if your dog’s shedding seems excessive or is accompanied by skin problems like bald patches, redness, or scabs. Sudden heavy shedding can signify an underlying medical issue needing diagnosis and treatment.

 

 How can I stop my dog from shedding so much hair in my house?

 

Bathe and brush frequently, blow dry after baths, vacuum often, wash bedding weekly, use deshedding tools, get regular professional grooms, use rubber grooming gloves and brushes, run an air purifier, and control environmental factors to significantly reduce shedding in your home.

 

 What temperature should I keep my house to reduce dog shedding?

 

Keep your home’s temperature moderate between 65-80°F year-round. Extreme heat or cold can dry out skin and worsen shedding. Run a humidifier to add moisture back into the air during winter and summer months.

 

 How often should I brush my dog if he sheds a lot?

 

For heavy shedders, aim to brush daily if possible. At minimum, brush several times per week focusing on areas prone to tangles. Use a slicker brush for overall brushing and an undercoat rake 2-3 times per week to remove large amounts of loose hair from the thick undercoat.

 

 Are there medications that can help stop my dog’s shedding?

 

Your vet may prescribe antihistamines, fatty acid supplements, melatonin, or steroids to help reduce shedding from allergies or other medical conditions. Discuss the risks and benefits with your vet to see if medications could be appropriate for your dog. Never give human medications without explicit veterinary approval and dosing instructions.

 

 What shampoo ingredients should I look for to reduce dog shedding?

 

Look for moisturizing shampoos containing colloidal oatmeal, aloe vera, vitamin E, salmon oil, coconut oil, and fatty acids like omega-3s. These ingredients soothe skin, provide moisture, and support the skin’s moisture barrier to improve coat health and minimize shedding.