How to Control Dog Shedding

Most dogs will shed to some degree and this can be a source of significant frustration if you're compulsive about maintaining a clean house. Fortunately, there are a variety of steps you can take to control your dog's shedding. Here are a few simple ways to control shedding.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Choose the appropriate color for your upholstery.
   
   If you have a dark haired dog, opt for upholstery in a dark shade. This will help to disguise the dog hair so you won't have to vacuum quite so often.

2. Protect your furniture.
   
   If you have a dog breed that happens to shed a great deal, you can reduce your work load by keeping your furniture covered with furniture throws. These are special furniture coverings that “grab” onto pet hair and prevent it from falling onto your other furniture or onto the floor. You can find sources for these by doing a Google search.

3. Brush your dog daily.
   
   This is probably the most important way to control your dog's shedding. Not only does brushing remove excess hair, it also conditions your dog's coat so he's less likely to shed.

4. Choose the appropriate color for your upholstery.
   
   If you have a dark haired dog, opt for upholstery in a dark shade. This will help to disguise the dog hair so you won't have to vacuum quite so often.

5. Keep several lint brushes throughout your house.
   
   If your dog sheds on your furniture, he's also going to shed on your clothing. Keep a lint brush within easy reach in your home so you can be presentable before you go out.

6. Feed your dog a food fortified with omega 3 fatty acids.
   
   Omega 3 fatty acids can help keep your dog's skin and coat healthy which can reduce the amount of shedding you'll experience on your floors and furniture. If you can't find a high quality dog food that has added omega 3 fatty acids, consider buying an omega 3 fatty acid supplement to give your dog daily.

7. Give your dog frequent baths.
   
   Bathing your dog frequently followed by a thorough brushing can work wonders towards controlling dog shedding. Be sure to use a mild shampoo if you plan on giving your dog frequent baths to avoid drying out his skin.

8. Give your dog a designated chair.
   
   Instead of allowing your dog free access to the furniture, give him his own special chair that's protected by a furniture throw. Better to have to vacuum a single chair frequently than the entire room.

Tips & Warnings

• If your dog has a shedding problem that fails to respond to diligent grooming and fatty acid supplementation, you should consider having your dog evaluated by your veterinarian to make sure he's not suffering from a skin condition which may promote excessive loss of hair.