Dog Shedding Facts - Shedding Happens

Shedding in dogs is a mandatory and natural process despite all the frustrations a dog owner bears. Dogs do it just for the sake of getting rid of old and unhealthy hair that, anyhow, may cause irritations to your furry companions. You cannot prevent shedding in dogs as it helps to get them modified for particular seasons.

The rate of shedding is different in different seasons, and it depends upon the breed type. Some dogs are allergic to certain environmental factors that cause problems to their fur, ultimately shedding increases. In such cases, by pointing out the underlying cause, you may decrease the shedding rate.

Here you will get all the necessary facts about dog shedding which will help you understand why shedding is always there.

Table of Contents

What is the reason behind shedding in dogs?

There might be several factors for triggering a dog’s body biological clock to shed. However, no matter the reason for initiating shedding in dogs, the shedding process is the same, consisting of three phases. Every hair of your dog’s body has its life cycle, which completes in these three phases.

1-Anagen phase

It is the phase in the life cycle of hairs when they experience an active growth pattern. It is usually happening before the winter season for the sake of insulation to ensure protection from colds.

2-Catagen phase

It is the period in the life cycle of dog’s hairs when they stop their further growth. Dogs mostly experience it before or during the summer season when there is sufficient hair available for insulating.

3-Telogen phase

The Telogen phase directly relates to shedding in dogs as during which old hairs get replaced by new and healthy ones. This phase plays its role in making your dog’s coat shiny and attractive.

When the predestined length of the dog’s hair is achieved, they start to fall and begin the shedding period.

How can you predict shedding season in dogs?

When dogs spend most of their time living outside, they experience profuse shedding during the spring and fall seasons. On the other hand, adopted and home-living dogs keep on shedding reasonably throughout the year. Breed type is also a major predisposing factor for shedding in dogs.

Dog breeds like Pomeranian and Golden Retriever have double layers of coat, so they exhibit excessive shedding. If you own such breeds, you must prepare yourself for profuse shedding during spring and fall.

Shedding is a common process, but abnormal or excessive shedding in patches needs immediate intervention.

What dog breeds are more and less prone to shedding?

You must keep that fact in mind that no dog breed is maintenance-free; some of them shed more while others moderate. Here we are going to describe some important breeds concerning shedding rate.

Hairless breeds

Hairless breeds usually require less attention regarding grooming sessions, but they are sensitive to cold weather and sunburn. So, you have to take care of them accordingly.

Chinese Crested
American Terrier
Xoloitzcuintli
Peruvian Orchid

Low-shedding breeds

Light shedders are among the popular dog breeds which are best for dog owners that are danger allergic. These breeds have fine hair on their skin coat despite fur. Some important breeds are;

Bichon Frise
Basenji
Maltese
Italian Greyhound
Poodle
Miniature Schnauzer
Shih Tzu
Scottish Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier
Portuguese

High shedding breeds

Most pet parents have a misconception that only larger breeds with long coats are more prone to shedding. However, there are some small breeds with a short coat that shed even more.

Alaskan Malamute
Akita
Chow Chow
Beagle
German Shepherd
Labrador Retriever
Pug
Golden Retriever
Pembroke Welsh
Saint Bernard
The Great Pyrenees
Siberian Husky

What are the predisposing factors for profuse shedding in dogs?

Generally, shedding in dogs is not extraordinary, but certain factors exaggerate this process. From a poor diet to stress and allergies, all these factors affect shedding in dogs.

1-Diet

A diet lacking essential fatty acids and proteins may affect hair growth. Thus shedding prevails. You need to nail a diet full of omega-3 for their healthy development.

2-Dehydration

Dehydration is also a major factor for promoting shedding in dogs. Dogs that are taking excessive kibbles without the provision of plenty of water are much likely to start shedding.

3-Lack of brushing

Regular brushing is necessary for promoting oil secretions that assist hair strength and shine. If you don’t brush your dog fur daily, old and weaker hair stays there and causes irritation or other skin problems.

4-Skin problems

Some dogs experience excessive shedding due to some underlying skin diseases. These conditions may lead to loss of hair in patches and a symmetrical manner.

Conclusion

Shedding in dogs is natural, but certain diet and stress-related factors lead to profuse shedding. You need to ensure regular grooming and the provision of a balanced diet to avoid excessive hair on your furniture.

References

https://www.simpsonspremium.com/advice-centre/advice-for-dogs/dog-shedding/

https://www.fourpaws.com/pets-101/grooming/shedding-in-dogs

https://born2impress.com/five-interesting-facts-about-dog-hair/