How To Reduce Shedding From Your Dog
If you own a dog then you know the shedding can be insane. Some dogs shed more than others but typically if you own a dog you will be finding dog hair in every nook and cranny. Dog hair will weave its way into your living room furniture and fuse itself into the cushions of your sofa. When you go to sit down and relax at the end of a long day you will notice when you stand up from the sofa that the clean clothes you were wearing are suddenly engulfed in your dog's coat making an emergency end table lint roller essential. Sitting down to enjoy your morning cup of coffee will no doubt result in at least one dog hair finding its way in or near your delicious cup of coffee. Constantly being overrun by your dog’s shedding coat will be a reliable occurrence similar to the sun always rising and the birds always chirping.
Brushing: The first thing you can do to reduce shedding from your dog is to brush them daily. If you have a dog with a thick or double coat you can increase the number of daily brushes. You will see an abundance of hair being removed from your dog while brushing their coats out. You will potentially have enough fur removed to create a sculpture replica of your dog made entirely of their removed hair. You just saved yourself from finding all those hairs in your morning cup of joe. Brushing your dog regularly will help reduce the amount of shedding that happens throughout your home.
Use Correct Brush: Using the right brush for your dog is just as important as choosing the right shampoo and no, your old hairbrush probably doesn’t count! Different coats require different types of brushes, so choosing one that matches your dog’s fur can make grooming easier, more comfortable, and much more effective. Slicker brushes are great for removing loose fur and tackling small tangles, while bristle brushes work well for smoothing short or straight coats. Dogs with thick or double coats may benefit from an undercoat rake or de-shedding tool to help remove all that extra fluff hiding underneath. The right brush can help prevent mats, reduce shedding, keep your dog’s coat healthy, and turn grooming time into a relaxing bonding experience instead of a wrestling match. Your dog may not thank you with words, but that shiny coat and wagging tail are basically a five-star review!
Use Correct Bath Products: Using the right bath products can make a big difference when it comes to reducing shedding in your dog. A gentle, dog-friendly shampoo designed for shedding or sensitive skin can help remove loose fur, dirt, and excess oils without stripping away the skin’s natural moisture. Follow up with a nourishing conditioner to help keep the coat soft, healthy, and easier to brush. Avoid using human shampoos, since they can be too harsh for your dog’s skin and may lead to dryness or irritation which can turn shedding season into a full-blown fur blizzard! The right bathing routine, combined with regular brushing and a healthy diet, can help keep your dog’s coat looking its best and hopefully keep a little less fur decorating your furniture, clothes, and morning coffee.
Diet: A proper diet can make a big difference when it comes to reducing shedding in your dog. While shedding is a completely normal part of being a dog, the right balance of nutrients can help keep their skin healthy and their coat strong, which may mean fewer loose hairs floating around your home. High-quality dog food with plenty of protein, healthy fats, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals can support healthy skin and fur from the inside out. Keeping your dog well-hydrated is important too, since dry skin can contribute to extra shedding. Of course, no diet will magically stop your dog from leaving fur on your couch, clothes, and possibly your morning coffee, but good nutrition can help keep shedding at a more manageable level and give your pup a healthier, shinier coat in the process.
These tips will help reduce the amount of shedding that comes from your dog. Following these tips will hopefully reduce the number of stray hairs clinging to your pants while you’re rushing out the door to work.
