If you’ve noticed tufts of dog hair collecting on your floors, furniture, and clothing—your dog is likely in the middle of their seasonal coat change, also known as “blowing coat.” It’s completely natural, but it doesn’t have to take over your home. Understanding why dogs shed and how summer grooming and shed control treatments can help will make the season easier for both you and your pup.
Why Do Dogs Shed?
Shedding is a healthy and normal process that allows dogs to get rid of old or damaged hair. Most dogs have a natural shedding cycle that’s influenced by:
- Breed and coat type (double-coated vs. single-coated)
- Changes in daylight and temperature
- Indoor vs. outdoor living conditions
In late spring and early summer, double-coated breeds like Huskies, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Labs begin losing their dense winter undercoats which is known as “blowing coat”.
The Stages of Shedding
Dog shedding doesn’t happen all at once—it follows a cycle:
- The active growth phase
- Transitional phase when growth slows
- Resting phase, when hair is fully formed
- Shedding phase, when old hairs fall out and make way for new growth
During the shedding phase, dogs can lose large volumes of hair—especially in warmer months when their bodies naturally adapt to the change in climate.
Why Summer Grooming Is Essential
Grooming during peak shedding season does more than just keep your home cleaner. It’s essential to your dog’s comfort and well-being.
Benefits of summer grooming:
- Removes loose undercoat to prevent matting and overheating
- Improves skin health by increasing airflow and distributing natural oils
- Reduces allergens that can collect in fur and on the skin
- Helps detect skin issues like hot spots, rashes, or parasites early
- Keeps dogs comfortable—especially active dogs in daycare or boarding
Dogs with heavy coats can become uncomfortably warm if not properly groomed in the summer. Regular brushing, bathing, and shed control treatments can prevent heat-related stress and skin issues caused by trapped fur and moisture.
The Shed Control Advantage
At Holiday House Spa on State, our shed control treatment is professionally designed to decrease shedding–especially when blowing coat–better than regular brushing
A shed control treatment includes:
- A gentle pre-bath blowout to loosen the undercoat
- A premium bath with high-quality products that condition the root and follicle and loosen hair in the resting phase.
- Drying and brushing techniques that remove the loosened hair
One of the biggest advantages for pet parents? A noticeable reduction in shedding around the house.
Shed control treatments help:
- Cut down on vacuuming and lint-rolling
- Reduce hair on furniture, clothing, and car seats
- Save time while keeping your home cleaner and fresher
Schedule Regular Grooming for a Happier, Healthier Pup
Whether your dog has a long double coat or a short, dense one, routine grooming—especially in the summer—makes a big difference in your dog’s health, comfort, and overall happiness.
- Improved Skin & Coat Condition: Brushing stimulates circulation and distributes natural oils, promoting a healthy, shiny coat.
- Prevention of Mats & Skin Infections: Regular grooming helps prevent painful tangles and mats that can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria against the skin—leading to irritation or infections.
- Early Detection of Health Concerns: Grooming sessions often reveal lumps, bumps, parasites, or skin issues that may otherwise go unnoticed.
- Temperature Regulation: Removing excess undercoat helps your dog stay cooler and more comfortable in the heat, especially during outdoor play or daycare.
For active dogs, senior pups, and those who participate in daycare programs, staying on a regular grooming schedule is part of overall wellness. Just like regular vet visits and nutritious meals, grooming is essential care—not a luxury.
Maintain the Results with a Mini-Shed Treatment
After the initial shed control treatment, it’s normal to notice some loose hair in the days that follow. That’s because the treatment stimulates the hair follicles and loosens the undercoat—but not all of the hair is ready to come out at once. That’s where a mini shed treatment comes in. Scheduled about two weeks after the initial treatment, a mini-shed includes a blowout and brush-out to remove any lingering undercoat that’s now ready to shed. It’s a great way to extend the benefits of your dog’s grooming session and reduce continued shedding around your home.
Need help managing your dog’s summer shedding?
For best results, talk with our groomer about the right schedule and approach for your dog’s coat type. With regular maintenance, you’ll notice significantly less hair shedding over time—and a much more comfortable, happier pup.
Limited Time Offer: Free Mini Shed Treatment!
Mention “June Blog Article” and book within 2 weeks of your initial Shed Control Treatment to qualify.
Call 215-345-6960 to book an appointment at The Spa on State.
Expires June 30, 2025.
Ask our reservation specialist about the shed control treatment and grooming packages when you call to schedule an appointment at Spa on State—because less fur on your floors means more time for fun with your best friend.