My Dog is Shedding A Lot! Is This Normal?

We’ve all been there… You’re noticing more of Fido’s fur on the couch and you have no idea why. For the most part, dog shedding is normal depending on your pup’s breed and environment.

However, where should you draw the line and see a veterinarian? In this article, we’ll guide you through ensuring your dog is happy and healthy in his own skin with 4 simple, helpful steps.

1. What Does Normal Shedding Look Like?

So, how much should dogs shed normally? The amount varies greatly based on your dog’s breed. For example, a Bernese Mountain dog is going to shed a lot more than a Shih Tzu. Every dog is different, so the best thing you can do is monitor any notable changes in your pup’s shedding output.

Moreover, drastic changes in the weather can bring on excess fur. Some pups will develop a thicker coat during the Winter and will shed more as a result. When in doubt, look for other symptoms. If your pup is eating, exercising, playing and acting normally otherwise, he is likely fine, but always reach out to a professional when in doubt.

2.What Does Abnormal Shedding Look Like?

In the rare event that your pup’s shedding is a sign of an underlying medical issue, here are a couple of tell-tale signs to look out for:

• Redness, spots, rashes
• Skin irritation
• Sores
• Bald spots
• More licking, scratching on a day to day basis
• Noticeably thinned coat

Also, look out for behavioral changes. If you notice your pooch acting lethargic, eating/drinking less or just acting out of the ordinary, seek out your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Shedding could be caused by a number of factors including parasites, allergies, reactions to medication, and others. It could also be the sign of a more serious disorder or disease, but it’s important to resist the urge to self-diagnose, and instead take your pup in to get the care he needs.

3.Keep Up with Best Pup Practices

In order to help with your dog’s hair loss and prevent future irritation, here are the best ways to keep your dog’s coat in tip-top shape.

Proper Nutrition

A balanced diet will ensure that your dog’s coat is kept healthy and full. You’ll want to make sure your pooch is receiving his daily recommended value of Omega-3s and other fatty acids to keep him looking his best.

Brush Regularly

Your dog needs to be groomed and brushed regularly to prevent excess shedding. Make sure you’re bathing and brushing your dog according to your veterinarian’s recommendations.

Observe New Medications Carefully

Medications can cause hair loss— Even common flea and tick supplements can cause adverse skin reactions, so be mindful whenever you implement new changes into your pup’s everyday routine.

4.When in Doubt, Ask A Professional

All in all, it’s important to remember that every pet is different. You know your dog better than anyone else, so if you feel something is out of the ordinary, including shedding, call your veterinarian.

If pet hair is a serious issue for you and your family, you may want to consider adopting a hypoallergenic dog breed in the future. The following breeds do not shed, or shed very little:

• Maltese
• Tibetan Terrier
• Shih Tzu
• Brussels Griffon
• Portuguese Water Dog
• Poodle
• Bichon Frise
• Havanese

For most of us, however, pet hair and shedding is a normal part of everyday life. Shedding for most dogs is normal, and while it can be a pain to clean up, it is a small price to pay for all of the love that comes from having a pooch as a part of your family.