Shedding is a natural process for dogs and is normally linked to the amount of sun the dog is exposed to during the day. Outside dogs shed their coats in the fall and then in the spring. Shepherds, Huskies and other long haired dogs can shed their undercoats all at once, commonly called “blowing their coats”. Inside only dogs will shed on a daily basis because the lights are on in the house from early in the morning till late at night and this has “tricked” the dog’s natural biology to think it is summer every day.
Excessive shedding can be caused by parasites, (fleas, mites, lice and ticks), poor nutrition, allergies, hormonal imbalances and some genetic conditions. If your dog is scratching incessantly, or if the skin is red, crusty or has sores on it, then the hair loss is more than just simple shedding and warrants a visit to your veterinarian.
As far as controlling the normal shedding on the dog, frequent brushing and combing is necessary. Brushing your dog on a daily basis will at least control where the hair lands and also allows you to check for matts, parasites,lumps and sores on your dog.
The furminator has also been a great tool to get the loose hair off the dog easier. The furminator uses a clipper blade that can cut the hair. You must go in the direction of hair growth and only stroke one area one or two times. Excessive use or going against the grain may leave your dog bald.
Regular grooming of your pet will reduce the shedding of hair throughout your house.
