As the seasons change, so do the coats of our beloved furry friends. Shedding season can often be a challenging time for both dogs and their owners. However, with the right grooming techniques and tools, you can keep your home clean and your dog comfortable throughout this natural process. In this blog post, we'll explore some top dog grooming tips specifically tailored for shedding season.
Why do dog's shed their hair?
Before we get onto some top dog grooming tips, let's talk about why dog's shed their coat. Most of us have no idea why our dog's shed their coat, but the question that is often asked, can it be stopped? Unfortunately the answer is no!
It can however be managed with products, but is is also helpful to know some facts about shedding and how the seasons impact on our dog's coat.
Every dog or cat with a coat will shed their hair. It's a cycle that occurs naturally on its own. It does however vary from breed to breed in how much hair is shedded. Unlike human hair which grows one strand per follicle, dogs and cats can grow several strands per follicle.
The biggest difference between heavy shedders and those breeds who tend to hang on to their hair (often referred to as hypo-allergenic breeds) is the kind of coat they have. Breeds such as the Border Collie, Samoyed and Labradors, tend to shed a lot of hair all year-round.
Dog breeds that shed the most:
Akita
Border Collie
Chow Chow
German Shepherd
Rottweiler
These breed examples have hair shafts with short life spans. A short lift span causes continuous hair shedding all year round.
Hypoallergenic breeds:
Yorkshire Terrier
Shih Tzu
Bichon Frise
Poodle
Afghan Hound
These breed examples shed very little because they have hair shafts with longer life spans. In the Ultimate Guide To Coat Types we delve into the intricacies of dog coat types, shedding, grooming requirements, and tips for keeping your dog's coat healthy and shiny.
You'll learn about the different coat types, including smooth, wire-haired, longhaired, and double-coated breeds. We'll explore the benefits and challenges of each coat type, including shedding patterns, whether adaptability, and specific grooming techniques to keep them looking their best.
By the end of this guide, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to choose the right dog based on coat type, as well as the necessary grooming practices to ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy. So let's dive in and uncover the fascinating world of dog coat types together!
Brushing Basics: The Foundation of Shedding Season Grooming
Brushing your dog regularly is perhaps the most important tip for managing shedding season. Invest in a high-quality brush designed to remove loose fur efficiently. For breeds with thicker coats, such as German Shepherds or Huskies, a slicker brush or undercoat rake can be particularly effective. Aim for brushing sessions at least a few times a week to keep shedding under control and prevent mats from forming.
Bathing Strategies for Shedding Control
Shedding season is a great time of the year to bath your dog to loosen all that dead hair. Opt by using a gentle, dog-friendly shampoo formulated for shedding control, such as the Clipit Deshed shampoo. Developed specifically for this season and with essential oil, this shampoo helps release all the dead hair quickly, whilst the dog is in the bath.
Follow up with a conditioner to help loosen dead hair and make brushing more effective. Aim to bathe your dog every 2-4 weeks, or as needed based on their activity level and coat condition.
Essential Deshedding Tools
In addition to regular brushing with a slicker brush, consider incorporating other deshedding tools into your grooming routine. Tools like shedding blades, grooming gloves, and deshedding combs are designed to remove loose fur efficiently without causing discomfort to your dog. Use these tools with gentle pressure, working in the direction of hair growth to avoid irritating your dog's skin.
Clipit Lifetime Undercoat Rake: a specialised tool that grips and frees undercoat mats in all heavy, coated curly breeds. Using a unique pin-plate design, the teeth firmly grip the hair while being released from the undercoat.
Clipit Deshedding Grooming Gloves: an easy to use grooming tool that massage and stimulates the skin, at the same time providing fast de-shedding grooming for removing loose hair on all animals.
Brushit Soft Pin Brush: This light soft-touch Brush-it medium pin brush is great for removing dense undercoat, knots and tangles.It has a highly resilient soft pad with non-aggressive pins that won't scratch the skin.
The Benefits of Groomer Visits During Shedding Season
Regular visits to a professional groomer can be immensely beneficial, especially during shedding season. Groomers have specialised tools and techniques to help remove excess fur and keep your dog's coat in optimal condition. Additionally, they can provide services such as de-shedding treatments and specialised baths to help manage shedding more effectively.
Maintain a Healthy Diet helps with shedding season
Nutrition plays a crucial role in the health of your dog's coat. Ensure your dog is eating a balanced diet rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to support healthy skin and coat. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, are known to reduce shedding and improve coat condition. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog's specific needs, especially if they have allergies or sensitivities.
Monitor for Signs of Underlying Issues that could cause excess shedding
While shedding is a natural process for most dogs, excessive or sudden shedding could indicate an underlying health issue such as allergies, hormonal imbalances, or skin infections. Keep an eye out for any changes in your dog's shedding pattern, along with signs of itching, redness, or irritation. If you notice any concerning symptoms, consult with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
By incorporating these dog grooming tips into your routine, you can navigate shedding season with ease and keep your canine companion looking and feeling their best. Remember, patience and consistency are key when it comes to managing shedding, so stay committed to regular grooming practices for the best results. Your dog will thank you for it with a healthy, shiny coat and a happier disposition.