Dog shedding

It's not the favourite time of year for us dog owners.The twice-yearly shedding leaves its unmistakable mark, and the hoover and lint roller are in constant use. But the shedding periods in spring and autumn are even more stressful for our four-legged friends. Because their bodies are running at maximum capacity. Here you can find out what you need to know about dogs shedding and how you can provide your dog with optimum support during this time.

Why do dogs shed?

Shedding is triggered by the change in day length.As soon as the days get longer in spring, the pineal gland (epiphysis) in the brain produces less of the sleep hormone melatonin and thus triggers shedding. When the days get shorter again in autumn, melatonin production increases. This signals the body to form the winter coat.

When do dogs shed?

In our latitudes, dogs – like most mammals – shed twice a year. Shedding in dogs usually takes place in April and May, as well as in September and October. The intensive shedding phase lasts around 6–8 weeks and is more intense in spring, as the four-legged friends shed the thick undercoat they have put on in autumn. However, some dog breeds do not shed. Poodles, for example, grow hair all year round.

What happens when dogs shed?

The renewal of the hair coat is a continuous process.Once a hair has grown out, it falls off and a new one grows back. During the shedding season, dogs shed particularly heavily in order to adapt their coat to the weather. In autumn, most breeds grow a dense undercoat, while the summer coat is shed. In spring, the winter coat is replaced by a lighter summer coat. During this time, the dog's body is performing at the highest capacity. This is because it has to produce a large amount of new hair in a short space of time. Your dog may therefore be a little more tired and calmer than usual during this time.

How much shedding is normal?

The degree of shedding depends on age, breed and hormone status.Older four-legged friends often shed more than young ones; neutered ones more than unneutered ones. The coat structure also determines the intensity of the shedding. As long as your four-legged friend's coat is shiny, everything speaks in favour of a healthy shedding. However, a dull and lustreless coat that feels greasy or oily may indicate illness or deficiencies. Severely thinned fur or even bald, inflamed areas should also be taken seriously. Parasites, allergies, a skin fungus and various diseases can manifest themselves through abnormalities in the hair coat. As such, if the loss of fur is accompanied by unusual symptoms or occurs suddenly and outside the usual shedding periods, you should seek veterinary advice.

Shedding in puppies

Puppies' fur is particularly fluffy and soft. During the first major shedding, the young dog loses its ‘baby coat’ and develops its real coat, which is more robust and firmer. This first shedding can take several weeks or even months. It varies depending on the dog and breed. This is a good time to get your four-legged friend used to regular combing and brushing. The best time to practise grooming is when your puppy is tired and doesn't feel too keen to play with the brush.

Shedding overview

Most dogs shed in April/May and September/October
The change in daylight length triggers the process
The shedding in spring is usually more intense because dogs lose the undercoat that formed in autumn
How much hair a dog loses depends on its age, breed, coat type and hormone status
As long as the dog's coat is shiny and he shows no signs of discomfort, heavy shedding is normal

Support for shedding dogs

Shedding is a great strain on a dog's body and is sometimes unpleasant. You can support your dog and speed up the shedding process with grooming and the right food.

Daily grooming facilitates shedding

The most important task for dog owners during the shedding period is: Brush, brush, brush! Daily grooming with a brush suitable for the dog's coat type aerates the skin and stimulates blood circulation. Dogs with thick winter coats in particular need support in thinning the undercoat so that it does not become matted. This is because if shed hair remains in the coat, it pushes through the top coat in sheets. These are ideal nesting places for bacteria and parasites and allow minimal air to reach the skin, which can lead to itching. However, bathing should be avoided as it weakens the skin's protective acid mantle.

B vitamins and high-quality fatty acids for fuss-free shedding

As hair consists largely of keratin, a protein, protein-rich food is particularly important during the coat change. High-quality dog food with plenty of lean meat, unsaturated fatty acids and vitamins all year round creates an ideal basis for the shedding period. In addition, B vitamins, especially biotin, can support your dog. A good natural source of this is brewer's yeast, for example. Salmon oil or linseed oil provide additional omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Zinc and copper also play a role. You can easily adapt your current feed to your dog's increased requirements using food supplements with corresponding dosage information. The DOGS LOVE Vital Powder "Hair & Skin" food supplement and the DOG'S LOVE "Super Shine" herbal mixture provide your dog with the best possible care with natural ingredients and a recipe developed with experts.