Dog Shedding: Everything You Need to Know

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Shedding is a natural process in dogs that occurs twice a year, during the change of seasons in spring and fall, but it can raise questions for owners. Here's a complete guide to dog shedding.

What is Dog Shedding?

Shedding is the process by which a dog loses its hair to make way for new fur. This can be influenced by seasonal, hormonal, and environmental factors.

Some dogs tend to shed year-round due to climate change.

It is not possible to stop shedding, but brushing remains the best way to limit hair loss.

Moulting Periods

• Spring and Fall: Most dogs shed twice a year, usually in spring and fall.

• Continuous Shedding: Some breeds, such as long-haired dogs, may have a more constant shedding throughout the year.

Moulting period	Season	Hair types	Duration of molting	Description
Spring molt	Spring	Winter coat (thick, undercoat)	2 to 4 weeks	Dogs shed their winter coats to adapt to warmer temperatures.
Autumn molt	Autumn	Summer hair (finer, lighter)	2 to 4 weeks	The molt is more moderate, the summer hairs fall out to make way for the winter hairs.
Secondary molt	All year round	Short or medium-haired dogs	Permanent, but lighter	Regular and moderate hair loss throughout the year. Hair loss is less significant.
Intense molt	After the birth of the puppies (in females)	All hair types	Variable, a few weeks	Females may experience more intense molting after giving birth.
Molting caused by external factors	Variable season (stress, illness, diet)	All hair types	Variable, a few weeks to months	Stress, changes in diet, illness or treatment can increase shedding.

At What Age Do Dogs Shed?

• Puppies: Puppies begin shedding around 4 to 6 months of age, when they lose their baby coat.

• Adults: Adult dogs continue to shed throughout their lives.

The frequency of shedding also depends on the dog's breed, coat type, and lifestyle. Long-haired breeds, such as German Shepherds or Golden Retrievers, typically shed twice a year, in spring and fall. Short-haired breeds, such as Boxers or Beagles, shed year-round but more moderately.

Duration of the Moult

The duration of the molt can vary:

• Seasonal Moult: Can last from a few weeks to several months.

• Continuous Shedding: May be less noticeable, but requires regular maintenance.

Most Concerned Breeds

Some breeds are more prone to shedding:

• Long-haired breeds: Such as the Golden Retriever or the Collie.

• Shorthaired Breeds: Some can also shed heavily, such as the Labrador.

How Do I Know If My Dog Is Shedding?

• Hair Loss: If you notice hair on the floor or furniture.

• Coat Changes: A thinner coat or patchy areas of coat.

Grooming and Brushing

• Regular Brushing: Frequent brushing helps control shedding and remove dead hair.

• Professional Grooming: Can be beneficial, especially for long-haired breeds.

Can We Stop Molting?

It's not possible to completely stop shedding, as it's a natural process. However, proper grooming and a balanced diet can help reduce the amount of hair lost.

Does Shedding Make My Dog Tired?

Shedding can be tiring for some dogs, especially if they shed a lot. Make sure they have a comfortable environment and get plenty of rest.

There are situations where shedding can be related to factors that can affect a dog's energy.

Postman	Impact on the dog	Description
Hormonal changes	Can affect energy	Hormonal changes related to shedding (e.g. after giving birth or aging) can disrupt a dog's balance and make it more tired.
Stress and excessive shedding	Mental and physical fatigue	Excessive stress can be linked to excessive shedding, affecting appetite, sleep and behavior, leading to general fatigue.
Skin problems or allergies	Discomfort and fatigue	Itching and irritation from allergies or skin infections can disrupt sleep and comfort, leading to fatigue.
Nutritional deficiency	General weakness, fatigue	Poor nutrition, especially when it is deficient, can worsen shedding and affect the dog's energy, making it more tired.

My Dog Is Scratching, Is This Normal?

A dog scratching may be normal during shedding, but it can also indicate skin problems, allergies, parasites, or infections. If scratching is excessive, consult a veterinarian.

Tips Against Hair

• Regular Brushing: Help reduce the amount of hair loss.

• Special Vacuum: Use a vacuum designed for pet hair.

• Anti-Static Wipes: Use wipes to remove hair from furniture and clothing.

Conclusion

Shedding is a natural process in dogs that requires regular maintenance. By understanding your dog's needs and adopting good grooming practices, you can make this time easier for you and your companion.