Have you been wondering how to reduce dog shedding? While there are a lot of things to love about dogs, but dealing with the mounds of hair they shed is not one. Shedding is a natural process for dogs, but constantly cleaning the hair can be frustrating. Unfortunately, there is no magic wand or process for stopping it. However, the good news is there are ways to reduce the amount of shedding to avoid endless vacuuming.
Why do dogs shed?
Dogs shed their fur as part of their natural growth cycle—active growth, resting phase, transition, and new growth. Most dogs typically have two coats. The first coat is that beautiful outer coat. The outer coat can shed all year as new hair replaces the hair that ends up on your floors, furniture, and clothing.
The secondary coat, known as the undercoat, is softer hair that acts as an insulator for protection from cold and hot temperatures. Shedding for breeds with an undercoat—also known as “blowing coat”— increases during the spring and fall seasons. Many dogs shed more than usual between March and October. As spring approaches, the thick undercoat is no longer needed to keep the dog warm. A lighter undercoat replaces the thicker undercoat that has been shed. This lighter undercoat helps keep the dog cooler in warmer months.
“Removing the thicker undercoat with professional grooming will help your dog feel cooler as the temperatures rise. Double-coated breeds include huskies, retrievers, and shepherds. A properly maintained coat will do what it’s naturally designed to do,” said Amanda Bird, professional pet grooming consultant who recently advised the team at Holiday House Pet Resort Spa on State.
Shedding is not limited to double-coated breeds.
“Short-coated breeds like pugs, terriers, and beagles shed a lot too,” said Paige, a professional groomer with The Spa on State.
Even though shedding is a natural process, additional factors can contribute to increased shedding.
A dog’s diet plays a significant role in the overall health and the condition of its coat. A diet lacking essential nutrients can result in dry skin and brittle hair that is more prone to shedding.
Skin allergies are common yet manageable with veterinary care.
Medical conditions like an infection, illness, or pregnancy are less common but can contribute to hair loss. Consult a veterinarian if there are any new or unusual symptoms to rule out a medical condition as the cause of increased shedding.
Tips for managing shedding
While shedding cannot be eliminated entirely, there are ways to help manage it, including weekly bathing and daily brushing. But who has the free time for all of that extra work—not to mention cleaning after excessive brushing?!
There is a better option that produces visible results—and decreases time spent vacuuming!
Professional grooming saves valuable time with dramatic results when done properly. Not all grooming salons offer expert shed control services. Holiday House Pet Resort grooming salons, including the Spa on State in Doylestown, use natural coat care products accompanied by proven techniques for the best results.
The health of your dog’s skin can have a big impact on shedding. Professional groomers can examine your dog’s skin and recommend treatments to help keep it healthy. Products can include moisturizing treatments and medicated shampoos to help reduce irritation and promote healthy skin.
A shed control treatment is a process that results in less shedding than with regular brushing alone. Grooming professionals with expertise in shed control use high-quality, natural shampoos and products. They use the appropriate tools and techniques for removing idle hair and strengthening the hair follicles.
Professional grooming is a great way to reduce shedding for all dogs. Professional grooming makes life easier for you and cooler for your furry friend in the summer. The professional groomers with Holiday House Pet Resort use high-quality skin and coat care products with the proper tools and techniques to reduce shedding. There are a lot of things to love about dogs. Thanks to experts in shed control, you’ll love the decrease in shedding too.
Call 215-345-6960 to schedule a grooming appointment with a shed control treatment at The Spa on State.