Regardless of how much you love your pooch, there’s no denying that shedding is one of the most frustrating things about being a dog owner. The mess that it creates can be enough to drive you nuts. Well, all dogs shed fur to some degree, with the exception of hairless breeds. Some shed very little (often referred to as hypoallergenic dogs), while others shed large amounts (usually called heavily double-coated dogs. Dogs shed in reaction to temperature differences in seasons, and it primarily happens during spring.
Can You Stop Shedding?
As much as you may want to stop your lovely pooch from shedding, it’s impossible to fight nature. It is a healthy process that shouldn’t be stopped. However, there are a few ways to minimize the amount of fur floating around your home and even hasten the process so that the mess can be disposed of more quickly.
That being said, here are some great ways to deal with shedding dogs.
Brush Your Pooch Daily
Perhaps the easiest and most effective way to minimize the amount of shedding is to brush your furry friend on a regular basis. Doing so helps remove loose hair before it gets the chance to rub off and stick to your carpet, furniture and everywhere in between. However, you will need the right brush for the job and the best one depends on your dog’s coat type. The various type of brushes include:
Bristle-Brush: Ideal for all coat types, but if your dog as a longer coat, you may want one with loner and more widely spaced bristles.
Wire-Pin Brush: Ideal for curly and woolly coats that vary between medium to long length.
Combs- Ideal for removing dead hair from short-haired breeds.
Slicker Brush- Features fine wire bristles, excellent for removing tangles and mats.
Bathe Your Pooch Regularly
Another great way of dealing with shed is by regular bathing. Giving your pooch a bath not only helps clean the coat but also removes dead hair. You will come across an array of conditioners and shampoos that contain omega fatty acids and moisturizers that help hydrate the pets skin and fur, thus creating stronger and healthier follicles. These products also help loosen and get rid of the excess undercoat.
Add Moisture to The Pooch’s Diet
Even though the best dry puppy food has a lot of advantages to offer, a diet that’s solely based on such will only contribute to more shedding. That’s because lack of moisture leads to weak fur that breaks off easily. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to increase your dog’s water intake. Green beans, carrots and melons are examples of foods that your pooch can consume in moderation to increase moisture intake. Also ensure the diet includes omega-3 fatty acids, as they play a huge role in promoting healthy hair growth.
Visit The Vet
There are medical conditions that can lead to excess shedding. Fungal infections, sunburn, parasites and stress are some of the common issues that result in excess dog hair loss. Hormonal issues as a result of thyroid imbalance can ideally cause inflammation on the skin and brittle hair. If your dog is constantly scratching its coat, you may want to visit the vet for a closer look.
Conclusion
These are some of the best tips that you can implement to reduce shedding and enjoy living with your lovely pet.
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