Autumn is with us and as the seasons change a shedding hound is guaranteed.
So when and why do dogs shed? And how can we manage it? Here's some tips from The Dog's Spot team...
Dogs shed to remove old or damaged hair, making way for new, healthy growth. When and how much they shed depends on things such as their breed and the time of year
Of course, some shed more that others. The biggest culprits are the double-coated breeds such or Huskies, German Shepherds, Labs and Retrievers, who have both a soft undercoat for insulation and a tougher topcoat.
They also have thicker coats in winter and shed more in spring and autumn to adjust for the warmer or cooler temperatures.
Did you know breeds such as Poodles or Shih Tzus hardly shed because their hair grows continuously? That's why the need grooming every six weeks or so.
Undercoat Insulation
The way double-coats work is really clever.
The undercoat works as a very effective insulator. In colder weather, it helps trap body heat, keeping the dog warm, while in hot weather, it can also provide a layer of insulation that helps protect them from the heat by trapping cooler air close to the skin.
It becomes thicker, providing warmth and insulation in cold temperatures, but when its warmer in summer dogs shed a large portion of the undercoat, making it easier to regulate body temperature and avoid overheating.
The topcoat is made up of longer, coarser hairs that protect the dog from external elements like dirt, water, and UV rays. It also serves as a barrier against rain or snow, preventing moisture from soaking the dog's skin.
So how do you maintain your shedding dog's coat while keeping your clothes and home as hair-free as possible? Here's a few tips:
- Regular brushing is a must, but make sure you're doing it effectively. The key here is to make sure you brush the undercoat as well as the top layer. Part the coat in sections and use an undercoat rake to remove the dead hair, followed by an all-over brush using a universal slicker. Another useful tool in your armoury is a shedding glove.
- A professional de-shed. Nothing beats a de-shed by a professional groomer. High-velcocity drying before and after bathing is a really effective way of removing dead undercoat. Shampooing is also a good way of loosening hair.
- Try a supplement. A healthy coat with healthy hair follicles means no excess moulting. We recommend Salmon Oil, a great natural way to add Omega 3 to your dog's diet.
Shedding is a normal part of a dog's life, but managing it through regular grooming and a balanced diet can help minimize the amount of hair around your home.
Book a deshed at The Dog's Spot either online, by phone on 01235 797386 or in-store.