Help Reduce Shedding to Make the Fur-loss Process Manageable

While some dog breeds are notorious shedders, others have shed-resistant fur. But even shed-resistant dogs will lose fur depending on the season, weather, grooming and his overall health. You can’t prevent this natural process. But you can help reduce the amount of loose hair. If you feel your dog is shedding more than a typical amount for his breed, consult your veterinarian to rule out any undiagnosed health issues.

Here are a few tips to help reduce shedding and to make the fur-loss process more manageable.

Nutrition

1) Provide A High-Quality Diet – Dogs that have food allergies are especially prone to shedding. Be sure to nourish your pet with high-quality food made of digestible protein sources. Although higher-quality foods may cost a bit more upfront, the payoff offsets the price.

2) Consider Supplements – When it comes to nourishing a coat, it’s hard to top wild salmon fish capsules with Omega 3 fatty acids. This supplement helps to condition the skin and create a shinier, healthier coat that sheds less.

3) Feed Occasional Fresh Foods – Certain nutrient and moisture-rich foods can help maintain hydration and reduce pet shedding. Ideally, your dog’s regular diet should include fresh meats and vegetables. But other great snacks can include sliced apples (without the potentially toxic seeds), bananas, cucumbers and cooked lean meats (bone-free). Always avoid chocolate, grapes, milk products, avocado, raw meats and onions.

4) Give Clean, Fresh Water – Dehydration will often lead to dry skin that ultimately causes excessive shedding and even illness. Make certain your dog always has access to more than the amount of clean, fresh water that he will want or need to drink. You should also consider adding moist foods into his diet since wet dog food contains up to 78% moisture as compared to 10% in dry food.

Grooming

1) Brush Regularly – A daily or every-other-day brushing ritual helps to eliminate excessive fur, removes matts and tangles, and makes your dog’s coat cleaner and softer.

2) Use De-shedding Tools – Use de-shedding tools just prior to spring to control the fall off of your dog’s winter coat. Then repeat the process in autumn as his winter coat begins to grow. Dogs with thick or long coats likely require tools like an undercoat de-matting rake or a shedding blade, while dogs with short coats are typically fine with a rubber curry comb. And keep in mind that dogs living indoors most or all of the time may shed year-round.

3) Control Fleas – Dogs that have flea issues will scratch incessantly and lose fur in the process. Preventing fleas on your dog will help eliminate or reduce irritated skin, dandruff and excessive shedding.

4) Bathe Regularly – Regular bathing helps loose hair to fall out in the bathing area instead of onto furniture. But avoid over-bathing since it can cause dry skin. Especially during cooler months, use a blow dryer on its lowest setting to speed the drying process on longhair dog breeds.

With just a few adjustments to your routine, you can greatly reduce the indoor furballs during this year’s spring shedding season!