How to Groom Heavy-Shedding Dogs

The cold of winter is still with us but not for much longer. You know what that means? The gradual transition to the time of year where floors need to be vacuumed more, couches are covered in fluff, and your clothes are accessorized with dog hair. That’s right. Your dog is going to start shedding. Shedding season is approaching, everyone!

If you have a dog that is a breed that develops a thick, fur coat over the winter to keep warm, this shedding season is probably something that ails you annually. How do you go about grooming heavy-shedding dogs or alleviate the amount of shedding that occurs?

First, let’s understand why dogs shed so much.

This is a natural process that occurs to remove your dog of old or damaged hair/fur, and the process of shedding and the frequency is dependent on the breed of dog you have and their health. Some breeds, for example, shed all year long at equal amounts. The same case is for dogs who spend most of their time indoors. 

To keep the shedding under control, the best option is to groom your dog. That’s truly the key to reducing dog shedding. A slick brush to your dog once a week - and thoroughly, we might add - is what will help you the most. 

Grooming Dogs With Double-Coats

There are two types of tools to use for dogs that have double-coats when you’re grooming them. The first is a de-matting rake for the obvious instances where you run into matted hair when you’re grooming your dog. An undercoat rake will help you pull out loose undercoat hair. These rakes,  however, might not be favored by your dog so you might need to ease into the use of them or find other options. Some suggestions include using a regular fine comb or (if your dog isn’t frightened by it) a vacuum attachment. 

Grooming Dogs With Long, Silky Coats

For dog breeds like Spaniels and Setters, you’ll need lighter tools. Trimming the coat of these breeds such as these is a normal occurrence, but when it comes to shedding, it’s encouraged to use a pin brush after weekly baths.

Grooming Dogs With Wiry Coats

Schnauzers and Terriers are examples of breeds that have wiry coats. While these breeds only need to be bathed once every several months, you’ll need to brush and comb them 2-3 times a week. 

What if my dog is shedding more excessively than normal? What’s causing that?

According to Pets WebMD, excessive shedding can be caused by any of the following issues/factors:

• Parasites (fleas, lice or mites)
• Fungal or bacterial infections
• Inhalant or food-related allergies
• Kidney, liver, thyroid or adrenal disease (including Cushing’s)
•  Pregnancy or lactation
• Certain medications
• Self-induced trauma due to licking
•  Cancer
• Immune disease
• Sunburn
• Contact with irritating or caustic substances

(Source: Pets WebMD)

If any of those are ailing your dog, it’s best to bring your beloved dog to your trusted, local veterinarians office for a solution.

This is just a sampling of tips we offer at Joyride Harness. You can find more tips and tricks and how-tos for caring for your dog on our blog at this section. Feel free to leave a comment with tips you’re looking for!