Dog shedding: 5 tips for managing hair loss and brushing

The dog shedding season is a normal period in the life of every dog. Twice a year, in the spring and autumn, the coat renews itself to adapt to temperature changes. During this phase, it is common to see much more hair in the house, on clothes, or on cushions.

For owners, this period can quickly become a nuisance. However, shedding is also an important time for the health of a dog's coat. Proper grooming helps remove dead hair, aerate the skin, and promote the regrowth of a healthy coat.

With the right techniques and the right equipment, dog shedding can be managed effectively while remaining pleasant for your companion. In this comprehensive guide, you will discover five essential tips to support your dog during this period, including how to choose a suitable dog hair brush and how to turn grooming into a positive experience.
chien qui s'est fait brosser, poil de chien, Jack Russell terrier, Jack Russell

Understanding shedding in dogs

Before looking at how to manage it, it is useful to understand why shedding occurs.

A natural phenomenon

Dog shedding corresponds to the renewal of the coat. Old hair falls out to make way for a new coat better suited to the season.

In the spring, dogs generally lose a large part of their winter undercoat. In the autumn, the coat becomes denser to face the cold.

Not all dogs shed the same way

Some breeds lose a lot of hair, especially those with a dense undercoat.

For example:

  • Nordic dogs
  • Sheepdogs
  • certain retriever breeds

Other dogs, particularly those with curly or continuously growing hair, lose less hair but still require regular maintenance.

Tip number one: adopt intensive brushing during shedding

Brushing is the main tool for managing shedding.

During this period, dead hair accumulates in the coat. If it is not removed, it can cause knots and prevent the skin from breathing properly.

Why intensify brushing

Regular brushing helps to:

During dog shedding, it is often recommended to brush the animal several times a week, or even daily for dogs with a dense undercoat.

Choosing the right dog hair brush

Not all brushes are suitable for all coats.

A dog hair brush must be chosen based on:

  • hair length
  • whether or not there is an undercoat
  • skin sensitivity

Some brushes are specially designed to remove the undercoat during shedding. Be careful with combs and brushes with metal pins, which tend to hurt dogs.

It is easy for us humans to get carried away and use them in areas where we shouldn't: on the ribs or against joints. The result? It's the best way for your dog to associate brushing with an unpleasant moment and stop letting you do it!
chien qui se fait brosser, brosse pour chien, Beagle

Tip number two: turn brushing into a pleasant moment

Many dogs enjoy being brushed when it is introduced gradually and associated with a positive experience.

The role of rewards

During grooming sessions, it can be helpful to offer a calm activity to keep the dog occupied.

A licking mat is an excellent tool for this.

Using a licking mat while brushing

The principle is simple: you spread a tasty treat on a licking mat, and the dog stays busy licking it while you brush them.

Licking has a naturally soothing effect and helps the dog stay relaxed.

This technique is particularly useful for dogs that tend to move around or become impatient during grooming.
chien dans une baignoire , chien peur de l'eau, Kelpie

Tip number three: wash your dog when necessary

Bathing can also help remove dead hair during dog shedding.

Why bathing can help

Water and shampoo help loosen dead hair from the coat. After the bath (and a session in a dog bathrobe), a good brushing often removes a large amount.

However, baths should not be too frequent in order to preserve the skin's natural balance.

Using a lick mat during the bath

A lick mat can also be very useful during a shower.

Simply attach the mat to the wall of the bathtub or shower and spread a tasty treat on it.

While the dog licks the mat, it stays occupied and bath time becomes much more pleasant.

Tip number four: support coat health through diet

The condition of the coat depends largely on the dog's diet.

Essential nutrients for the hair

Certain nutrients play an important role in coat health:

  • quality proteins
  • essential fatty acids
  • certain vitamins

A balanced diet promotes the growth of strong, shiny hair.

The importance of hydration

Water is also essential for keeping the skin healthy. A well-hydrated dog generally has a healthier coat.
chien avec puce chien sans puce

Tip number five: monitor the condition of your skin

Dog shedding is a natural phenomenon, but it should not be accompanied by unusual symptoms.

Signs to watch for

While brushing, it is helpful to check the condition of the skin.

Certain signs may indicate a problem:

  • redness
  • significant itching
  • bald patches
  • excessive dandruff

In these cases, it may be best to consult a veterinarian.

Adapting the dog hair brush to skin sensitivity

A dog hair brush that is too aggressive can irritate the skin, especially during shedding when the coat is more fragile.

It is therefore important to choose a suitable brush and to use gentle movements.

Dog shedding: a normal period to support

Dog shedding can be impressive due to the amount of hair lost, but it is part of the natural coat cycle.

With a few good habits, this period can be managed easily:

  • regular brushing with a suitable dog hair brush
  • a balanced diet
  • an occasional bath
  • using a lick mat to make grooming pleasant

By turning brushing sessions into moments of relaxation and bonding, you will help your dog experience this shedding period in the best conditions while keeping their coat healthy and shiny. 🐕

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