Shedding & Health in Dogs
Shedding is a common concern for pet owners. Dog hair all over the house is a problem, but having a healthy dog is more important. Dogs shed naturally with the seasons. Malnourished dogs or those with parasites will shed more than normal. It's important to groom your dog regularly to control shedding.
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Fur Coats
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In general, dogs have two types of fur: undercoats and overcoats. The undercoat, or secondary hairs, is softer and shorter than the overcoat, or primary hairs. Primary hairs are long and rough, and they protect certain breeds, like retrievers, from weather and water.
How much undercoat and overcoat a dog has depends on the breed. Huskies, for example, have thick coats, whereas Weimaraners have little fur.
Natural Shedding
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Shedding is a natural occurrence in dogs. Most shed a furry undercoat in the spring, as they no longer need that extra layer of insulation to keep them warm. According to the Dog Breed Info Center, strictly indoor dogs may not develop such thick undercoats and may not shed according to seasons. Indoor dogs likely will shed year-round.
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Unhealthy Shedding
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According to the Canis Major website, shedding is tied to hormonal changes in a dog that can be affected by nutrition and overall health. Malnourished dogs are more susceptible to mites and other diseases that can cause hair to fall out. The American Veterinary Medical Association said that sarcoptic mange mites are one type of microscopic mite that can wreak havoc on your dog's skin and hair. Signs of this mange, also known as scabies, include hair loss and a skin rash, according to the AVMA. Dehydrated dogs or those without proper nutrition can experience more hair loss than normal as well.
Treatment
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Dogs with mange and other mites require medication, generally administered topically. Change in diet and environment may also be necessary to rid your dog of the mites and to increase health and hair growth.
Staying Healthy
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Groom your dog regularly to help keep the coat healthy. Brush your dog with a brush suitable to your pet's fur type and length. Bathe your dog regularly. Read dog food labels and ensure the food you give your dog is as natural as possible and void of fillers and preservatives. You can consider feeding your dog food you cook yourself. Ask your veterinarian about proper diet for your dog's breed and age. Most vet clinics sell reputable brands of dog food that are nutritious.
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References
- Photo Credit dog on orange background image by Gleb Semenjuk from Fotolia.com
