Running late for work? Forget about wearing those black dress slacks. They’re covered in dog fur. While you love your dog, you probably could live without all the lint rollers. Shedding is normal, but how much your dog sheds will depend on their breed, health, and time of year according to our Okemos dog groomers.
Here’s what you need to know about why your dog sheds and when they’re losing too much hair.
Shedding is Normal
First, it’s important to understand that is normal. Your dog will shed hair that is old or damaged just like humans lose hair. When you brush your hair or take a shower, it’s normal for some hair to fall out. Dogs are the same way.
Your dog may shed more or less depending on their breed and the time of year. However, if you mostly keep your pet indoors, you may not see much of a difference between summer and wintertime shedding.
While you won’t be able to stop dog shedding, there are ways to keep your home clean(er). The best way to keep dog hair off your clothes and furniture is to brush your dog regularly. Brushing your dog not only removes loose hair, but distributes natural oils that keep their coat shiny and healthy.
Our Okemos, MI, dog groomers will be able to recommend a specific type of comb or brush for your dog’s coat. Like human hair, dog hair comes in different textures and thicknesses. During routine , our staff can recommend other dog care products (like dry shampoo) that will work best for your dog’s hair type.
Stress-Related Shedding
Dogs tend to shed more when they are stressed. For example, you may have noticed that your dog sheds more when they know they’re going to the vet. If you think your dog is stressed out, try to find the source of their discomfort. Has your house been noisier lately? Did the neighbors get a new puppy? Making sure your dog gets enough exercise and mental stimulation can help them overcome stress.
We also recommend choosing a trustworthy doggy daycare, like ours, so your dog can get all the love, attention, and exercise they need while you’re at work. Having a consistent dog sitter, as well as having a safe place to play and nap, can help your dog feel more at ease. We also offer pet sitting services for both dogs and puppies.
Shedding Caused by Poor Nutrition
Does your dog food have all the nutrients your dog needs to run, play, and live their best life? The answer may surprise you. If your dog has allergies or food sensitivities, your veterinarian will recommend you experiment with different brands of quality pet food until you find the right one for your dog.
Shedding Due to Health Issues
If your dog is shedding more than usual, it may be due to an underlying health condition. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian if you notice rashes, red bumps, scabs, open sores, bald spots, or other health issues. The sooner your dog gets treatment, the better their outcome. Excessive dog shedding could be a sign of a number of conditions which includes everything from fleas to sunburn.
Have Your Dog Professionally Groomed
Our dog groomers in Okemos, MI, are dedicated to making sure your dog looks and feels their best. We offer our professional dog grooming service so your dog can enjoy a coat that is both shiny and healthy. For more information about our dog daycare or boarding services, call Dog Gone Funtoday at (517) 657-4300 or contact us online.
This blog post has been updated.