Let’s Talk About Shed Bay-B! Shedding. Dog Hair
Sorry for that rough title. It came to me after I started writing and I went for it.
Shedding! So. Much. Hair. The fur turns into tiny tumbleweeds and rolls around in your house, gathering in corners and under the sofa. In certain light you can see it twirling through the air with all the other dust particles. So what can we do? Can we decrease shedding? How do I manage all the fur in my home, on my clothes, or even in my food?
My dog carries the excessive shedding gene. I know a LOT about fur being everywhere!
Shed happens. Literally, not just another bad pun, I promise. Your dog’s coat (inclusive terminology for fur + hair - because there is a difference!) goes through cycles. It changes over time dependent on health, environment, genetics, and probably other stuff too. But let’s break those 3 sections down… I’m going to keep it brief before I bury myself into too deep of a pit here. As always, I am not a vet. If you have questions about your dog, ask your vet.
Health
Context: ‘Health’ to me includes hormones and diet.
Hormones: This includes stress & chronic stress, reproductive cycles, thyroid issues
Diet: Receiving a balanced diet is so very crucial for our pets - and us too! There is no one-size-fits-all kibble, canned, or raw formula that will 100% improve all dogs. You need to FAFO (that is fudge around, find out) for yourself and your dog. If you’re thinking of trying a new meal for your pet, consult with your vet. Whatever you chose, make sure it is a balanced and complete diet.
Other factors: Mites, ring worm, hormonal imbalance. Go ask your vet ;)
Environment
Environment!? Yes! Ever hear of allergies? How about this one, light exposure. Say what? Yup! Natural light vs. artificial light changes how hair grows- human and dog! Another one? Okay! Temperature and humidity. 💥 Betcha didn’t expect that. Or maybe you did, you’re smart, you’re here reading my blog.
Genetics?
Yeah. Genetics play a role here too. Before we can get upset at our husky or German shepherd for being fur-factories we really need to adjust our expectations. Some breeds, and individuals, just shed more.
Ya know when you meet someone and their family all have a gorgeous head of hair? It’s like that but with shedding.
Okay, but what can I DO
Sigh. Management. Vacuum more frequently. If you have a significant other or a roommate I suggest playing Rock, Paper, Scissors to see who vacuums and who walks the dog while the home is being vacuumed.
Robot Vacuum - run while you’re away! This is a sneaky way I add in some additional hair-help.
Grooming - Schedule routine grooming visits - depending on your dog specifically will determine how frequent and what protocol to do.
FAFO (fudge around, find out) w/diets. You could try supplements. If there was one product that always works for all dogs, we would know about it by now. Results will always vary dog to dog. I suggest giving at least 60-90 days for a FAFO period. Ask your vet any specific questions you may have about your dog.
