Do you have a dog that sheds like crazy? If so, you're not alone. Many dogs shed excessively, and it can be quite frustrating trying to keep up with the hair all over your house. In this blog post, we will discuss why dogs shed, how to reduce dog shedding, some popular dog shedding remedies, and even a recipe for a homemade dog shampoo that can help reduce shedding!
Why Dogs Shed
So why do dogs shed? Well, there are a few reasons.
It's Natural for Dogs
First of all, shedding is the process by which dogs get rid of their old hair to make room for new growth. This usually happens twice a year, in the spring and fall, when the days start getting longer or shorter.
Some dogs shed more than others due to their breed. Breeds that are known for shedding a lot include Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Huskies, and Australian Shepherds, just to list a few.
Seasonal Changes and Allergies
Another reason dogs shed is due to seasonal changes. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies that are aggravated by pollen and other allergens in the air. When this happens, they may start shedding more to get rid of the irritants on their skin.
Stressful Situations
Finally, dogs may start shedding excessively if they are experiencing stress. This could be due to a change in their environment, such as a move to a new house, or the addition of a new baby or pet to the family. Dogs may also start shedding more if they are not getting enough exercise or if they are not being fed a nutritious diet. If your dog is shedding more than usual, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any health problems.
Dog Shedding Remedies
Now that we know why dogs shed, let's talk about how to reduce dog shedding. There are a few things you can do that may help reduce the amount of hair your dog sheds.
Groom Your Dog Regularly
One of the best ways to reduce shedding is to groom your dog regularly. This includes brushing their fur with a de-shedding tool or brush often. This will help remove loose hair from the coat and also help distribute the natural oils from the skin throughout the hair. You can also try using a pet-safe de-shedding shampoo or conditioner when you bathe your dog.
Give Your Dog a Healthy Diet
Another way to reduce dog shedding is to make sure your dog is eating a healthy diet. A diet that is rich in omega fatty acids can help promote a healthy coat and skin. You can talk to your veterinarian about adding a supplement to your dog's diet or switching to a food that is specifically designed for dogs that shed excessively.
Reduce Your Dog's Stress Levels
As we mentioned before, one of the main reasons dogs shed is due to stress. If your dog is experiencing a lot of stress in their life, it's important to try and reduce their stress levels. This can be done by providing them with a safe space in your home, such as a crate or dog bed, and making sure they get plenty of exercise. You may also want to consider using a calming supplement or dog anxiety medication prescribed by your veterinarian.
Homemade Dog Shampoo for Shedding
If you're looking for an all-natural way to help reduce your dog's shedding, why not try making your own homemade dog shampoo? This recipe is very simple and only requires a few ingredients that you likely already have in your home.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup of organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup of water
- ¼ cup of aloe vera gel
- A few drops of lavender essential oil (optional)
Directions:
Mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl and pour into a bottle. Wet your dog's fur and massage the shampoo into their coat. Rinse well and repeat as necessary. This shampoo can be used once or twice a week to help reduce shedding.
We hope you found this blog post helpful! Remember, shedding is a natural process for dogs but there are things you can do to help reduce the amount of hair they shed. Try some of the shedding remedies we mentioned and see if you notice a difference. And if you're looking for a natural solution, give this homemade dog shampoo a try!
Do you have any tips for reducing shedding that has worked well for you and your dog? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below!