How To Control Dog Shedding: Step-by-Step
You love your sweet pooch more than life itself. But the fur they leave around your house? Not so much. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “How is it possible for this creature to release this much hair?!” know that you’re definitely not alone in this battle.
Depending on your dog’s breed, you might experience year-round shedding—and/or heightened periods during seasonal shifts. But here’s the good news: With high-quality deshedding tools and consistent brushing and grooming, you can significantly reduce those furball tumbleweeds.
How To Control Dog Shedding
Tired of dealing with your dog’s fur taking over every surface of the house? Here’s how to manage their shedding so you and your family can live in peace.
1. Choose the Right Dog Brush
Different coat types require different tools:
- Slicker brushes, with thin metal tines on a paddle, work best for long-haired dogs.
- Curry brushes, typically made of rubber or plastic, are ideal for short-haired dogs.
- Deshedding tools are specially designed to reach beneath the topcoat and remove loose undercoat hair.
If you’re unsure which brush suits your dog’s coat—or how to use it properly—consult your veterinarian or professional groomer for personalized guidance.
2. Brush Your Dog Regularly
Regular grooming is essential—not just for appearances, but for your dog’s overall health and comfort. During peak shedding seasons (especially spring and fall), daily brushing may be necessary. For other times of year, weekly or even monthly sessions may suffice.
Signs your dog needs brushing include: visible loose fur accumulating around the home, excessive hair coming off when you pet them, or increased self-grooming behavior.
3. Bathe Your Dog Regularly
Bathing does more than keep your pup smelling fresh—it helps loosen and remove excess hair, dead skin cells, dander, and dirt before they settle on your furniture and clothes. It also nourishes the skin and promotes a healthy, shiny coat.
Opt for gentle, skin-soothing shampoos—like oatmeal-based formulas—to support coat health and minimize shedding. During heavy shedding seasons, consider using a specialized deshedding shampoo formulated to help release undercoat hair safely.
Most dogs benefit from a bath once a month year-round. In spring and fall, increase frequency to every two to four weeks. Dogs with skin sensitivities or allergies may need more frequent bathing—sometimes weekly—based on veterinary advice.
4. Feed Your Dog a High-Quality Diet
Nutrition directly impacts coat health. Deficiencies in key nutrients—like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, zinc, and high-quality protein—can lead to dry skin and excessive shedding. Work with your vet to ensure your dog’s food meets AAFCO nutritional standards and supports optimal skin and coat condition.
Look for balanced, vet-recommended formulas that emphasize whole ingredients and targeted skin-and-coat support—available through trusted sources like furpetvo.com.
5. Keep Your Dog Hydrated
Proper hydration supports skin elasticity and coat health. Always provide fresh, clean water daily—and consider adding wet food or using water fountains to encourage more intake. Dehydration can contribute to flaky skin and increased shedding.
6. Visit Your Veterinarian
While shedding is normal, sudden or dramatic changes warrant a professional checkup. Excessive hair loss, bald patches, or behavioral shifts could signal underlying issues—from allergies and hormonal imbalances to parasites or infections. Your vet can help identify and address root causes early.
Why Is My Dog Shedding So Much?
Some breeds naturally shed more due to double coats or seasonal cycles—like spring and fall coat blows, or puppy-to-adult coat transitions. This is typical and manageable with routine care.
But if shedding feels unusually heavy—or comes with other symptoms—reach out to your vet. According to Dr. Carl Prior, DVM, owner of Park City Animal Clinic, signs that may indicate a medical concern include:
- Bald spots or patchy hair loss
- Red, flaky, swollen, or irritated skin
- Visible discomfort, pain, or reluctance to be touched
- Excessive scratching, licking, or biting at the skin
- Fleas, ticks, mites, or other external parasites
- Noticeably greater hair loss than usual
- Severe matting or tangles
- Reduced interest in self-grooming
Dog Breeds That Shed
A dog’s genetics play a major role in shedding volume—and coat length isn’t always the telltale sign. Some short-haired breeds actually shed more than long-haired ones. High-shedding breeds include:
- German Shepherds
- Chow Chows
- Golden Retrievers
- Siberian Huskies
- Alaskan Malamutes
- Corgis (both Cardigan and Pembroke)
- Akitas
- Collies (including Bearded, Border, and Rough Collies)
Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed Much
No dog is truly non-shedding—even “hairless” breeds produce some dander and fine hairs—but many low-shedding breeds produce far less loose fur. Popular options include:
- Terriers (e.g., American Pit Bull Terriers, Airedales, Boston Terriers, Border Terriers)
- Boxers
- Poodles (all sizes)
- Schnauzers (Miniature and Standard—Giant Schnauzers shed moderately)
- Pomeranians
- Bulldogs
- Chihuahuas
- Bullmastiffs
How To Control Dog Hair in the Home
Cover Surfaces
One of the easiest ways to prevent dog hair from taking over your house is to protect the surfaces where your pup spends the most time—like sofas, car seats, and beds. Use washable throws, slipcovers, or pet-friendly fabrics that repel or easily release fur. Vacuum regularly with a pet-hair-rated vacuum, and consider lint rollers or damp rubber gloves for quick touch-ups.
