6 Natural Ways to Minimize & Prevent Shedding in Dogs
Spring is here, and with the warmer weather comes shedding. We know a few tricks to minimize shedding and keep your pup’s coat off your couch and floor.
- Regular Grooming. Brushing your dog’s coat weekly, or even daily, is the best thing you can do to minimize shedding and keep your home free of dog hair. Regular brushing will also rid your pup’s coat of any grime and keep it clean and shiny.
- Regular Baths. According to our vet, the general rule of thumb is to bathe a healthy dog once a month with a mild dog shampoo or human baby shampoo (we use Johnson’s baby shampoo). A clean dog will have a healthier coat that is less prone to unusual hair loss. If your dog is prone to dry skin, consider an oatmeal bath. Oatmeal cleanses skin, locks in moisture, and relieves itching. To make an oatmeal bath, grind a cup of oatmeal into fine pieces and add to warm bath water. Bathe your pup for 10-15 minutes, gently massaging the water into his hair or fur. Rinse fully.
- High Quality & Nutritious Diet. The key factor for a healthy, shiny coat is diet. A balanced diet rich in protein and essential fatty acids (omega-3s, omega-6s) is incredibly important for skin and coat health and will fight excessive shedding or hair loss.
- Lightweight, Breathable Dog Apparel. If you really want your dog’s coat to stay off the couch, consider lightweight and breathable dog apparel. Stick to natural fabrics like cotton, and stay away from polyester and nylon which severely restrict air flow. The Classic Hoodie by Pacific Pup is a great option, made with 95% cotton and 5% elastic to ensure flexibility, mobility and comfort.
- Abundant Drinking Water. Dehydration can lead to hair loss, so always make sure your dog always has access to clean drinking water. If your dog’s appetite for water is low, add water or other flavorful hydrating liquids to his food bowl, i.e. water + low sodium chicken broth.
- Control Fleas & Ticks. Dogs with fleas or ticks will scratch and bite at their irritated skin, spreading hair or fur around your home as a result. These insects can also introduce other health problems that may ultimately lead to unusual hair loss. Speak to your vet about a regularly monthly flea and tick preventative if your dog isn’t on one already.
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