How to Stop Excessive Shedding in Dogs

Dogs that Shed Less Are Cooler in the Summer

Man's best friend is often the home's worst. While shedding is natural, excessive shedding can make vacuuming a daily task. Worst of all, it can irritate anyone who has allergies to pet hair or dander. Excessive shedding doesn't have to be part of your dog's life. With a few adjustments, your pup can be well on its way to a healthier, shinier coat with less shedding.

Things You'll Need

• Brush
• Waterless Bath aloe spray or similar
• Vitamin and mineral-enhanced food such as Nutro

Instructions

1. Brush your dog at least twice a week, especially during the spring shedding season. It's much easier to get rid of excess hair in this fashion rather than letting the dog's hair fall at random all over the house. Consider using a moisturizing coat enhancer such as Waterless Bath.

2. Ensure your dog's food has nutrients that help maintain a healthy skin and coat. Key ingredients include Linoleic Acid, Vitamin E and Zinc. If the food doesn't have these nutrients, many are available in supplement form at pet supply stores.

3. Bathe your dog once every week, if possible. If not, once every two weeks. Bathing is a great way to get rid of excess hair and ensures your dog's coat is clean. It can also reduce the irritation that can cause excessive shedding in the first place. Use a shampoo that calms the skins and moisturizes the coat.

4. Take your dog to a groomer if it has especially long or curly hair. Breeds such as poodles, eskimo dogs and huskies will need regular grooming to stay healthy and comfortable, especially in the summer months.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask other pet owners with similar breeds or your local pet store operators what tricks they have to combat shedding.

• If you decide to change your dog's food, don't do it too quickly, as this can cause digestive upsets. Change your dog's food gradually over the course of a week, mixing it with his old food. Start with 25 percent new, 75 percent old food for the first few days, then move to 50-50 for the next few. Finally, do 75-25 for 2 to 3 additional days and then replace the old food entirely.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Waterless Bath Description (DoggieNews)