6 Tips for Cleanup During Dog Shedding Seasons
Dog shedding season can be a challenging time for pet owners. Yes, we love our furry friends. But sometimes, cleaning up their shedding fur feels like an endless battle. Fear not; there are steps you can take to make shedding season more manageable and keep your home clean. Here’s what you need to know!
Dog Shedding a Lot? Here’s Why
Understanding why dogs shed so much can be crucial to having clarity and patience. Firstly, dogs shed to get rid of old, damaged, or dead fur. Is your dog shedding a lot? It’s nothing to worry about – it’s a natural, year-round process. However, it becomes more frequent during spring and autumn as they transition out of thick winter and light summer coats.
In some cases, though, dogs may experience extreme shedding because of nutrient deficiencies or undiagnosed medical conditions. Consult with a veterinarian if the shedding is excessive.
Best Dog Brush for Shedding and More
Along with the best dog brush for shedding, there are numerous tips and tricks to keep in mind for your pup’s healthy coat. Consider these six need-to-knows:
- Nutrition and Diet
A healthy diet is everything when preventing your dog’s excessive shedding. High-quality dog food will contain essential nutrients and vitamins to promote healthy skin.
In terms of supplements, something with fatty acids will help the vibrancy and health of the coat. You could look to fish oil supplements that contain Omega-3 fatty acids. Both our fresh freeze-dried food and our fresh meals contain Omega-3 fatty acids and are packed with vitamins and minerals your pooch will love!
- Grooming
Regular grooming is a great way to keep shedding under control. Brushing your dog’s coat daily – sometimes multiple times a day – will remove loose fur and prevent mats from forming.
If grooming intimidates you, reach out to a professional groomer. Their services will help you manage shedding and can offer helpful de-shedding treatments.
There are also de-shedding tools designed to remove loose fur from the undercoat. Look for a tool for your dog’s breed and coat type, and follow instructions to avoid injuring your pup’s skin.
Different breeds require different types of brushes. Do some research or ask your vet what might be the best tool for your fur baby. Consider these three popular brush options:
- Slicker brushes: This brush type has fine, short wires that are close together and work well on long-haired and curly-haired dogs.
- Shedding blades: This blade has a sharp edge that removes dead undercoat fur, typically for breeds with thicker coats.
- Rubber curry brushes: These brushes have small rubber teeth that are great for short-haired dogs with thin, smooth coats. They can also be used as a massage tool.
Choosing the right brush makes all the difference in your dog’s comfort and shedding level. Remember to be gentle when brushing the coat to avoid causing discomfort or irritation of any kind.
- Bathtime
Another helpful idea is bathing your dog. If you use a mild dog shampoo and rinse thoroughly, bathtime can help reduce shedding and remove loose fur.
However, you want to bathe your pup sparingly. If too frequent, it will strip the skin of natural oils and cause unnecessary dryness and irritation.
- Keep a Clean Space
Minimize shedding season by keeping your home clean. Vacuum regularly to remove loose fur from carpets and other various surfaces. Use a high-quality vacuum to trap fur to prevent buildup.
- Allergy and Flea Control
Your sweet furry friend may have allergies or fleas that have gone unnoticed. Schedule an appointment with your vet to manage your pup’s symptoms. They can provide allergy and itch relief. Wash your dog’s bedding, blankets, and towels to mitigate allergies and fleas as well!
Reduce Your Pup’s Shedding Today
Hopefully, you’re now an expert in how to reduce dog shedding. Shedding is a natural process that all dogs experience. Providing your pup with a healthy diet, grooming, and clean space will ensure that shedding season is a manageable time for all.
Here at Get Joy, we help give your furry friend the most comfortable, healthy life possible. If you’re looking for advice on reducing your dog’s shedding, schedule an appointment with our TeleVet health services. While you’re at it, remember to pick up some of our nutritious, top-of-the-line treats and meals!
Get started today.