When do dogs shed the most hair and is my dog's shedding normal?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on September 28th, 2019

  Shedding can actually happen at any time of the year in dogs that live in warmer climates and those dogs that spend most of their time indoors. For the most part, dogs’ bodies don’t respond in the same nature-driven way to longer or shorter daylight hours, or to changes in temperature. For this reason, some dogs shed pretty consistently across the year, as opposed to one or two big blow-outs. I would consider this shedding normal as long as you are not seeing any bald spots.

  

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• Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

  Licensed Veterinary Technician

  Published on April 7th, 2019

  With Spring approaching and the weather changing, expect an increase in shedding as Jasmine loses her winter coat. You can brush her daily to minimize shedding. A fish oil supplement may promote healthy skin and coat. Monitor for excessive licking, scratching or chewing of the cost. Monitor also for redness or patchy hair loss. These are symptoms that should be addressed by your veterinarian.

  

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• Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on October 21st, 2018

  Shedding excessively can have many reasons: 1) change of seasons...your dog sheds his summer hair to get a winter coat (this will depend on your climate) 2) food quality is not adequate 3) ectoparasites such as mange mites, demodex mites, fleas, ticks, etc. itch and the dog scratches excessively and loses a lot of hair 4) some dogs naturally shed more than others. 5) hormonal changes, e.g. a female dog comes into heat. Females will shed their hair coat
  You can do the following:
  1) feed a good quality complete commercial puppy food for large dogs
  2) Check for ectoparasites and treat for them if present
  3) Brush or comb your dog every day
  This should minimize the shedding.

  

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