Q&A for How to Reduce Excessive Shedding in Dogs

Try brushing through your dog's fur at least once a week to get rid of dead hair before it sheds.

The Akita has the honor of tipping the polls when it comes to heavily shedding dogs. Other breeds with thick double coats are also right up there, such as the Chow Chow, Malamute, and Husky. However, never underestimate the ability of a Labrador or Golden Retriever to shed!

Some dogs just do shed heavily, and the best thing you can do is to trap the shed hair on a brush, rather than letting it fall out. Look for a rubber grooming tool that grabs hold of the shed hair, and then brush her all over once a day (twice a day, if necessary). That should significantly improve the hair "capture" and reduce the problem in the house.

Unfortunately, some dogs just are heavy shedders and you have to think laterally about how to cope with it. Daily brushing is essential, preferably done outside, so that the hairs get trapped on the brush and not the soft furnishings. For those with the budget to afford one, robotic vacuums can make a huge difference in the house.

No, this is an urban myth. It may have come about as a result of a dog on a deficient diet who had their nutrient intake improved by the addition of an egg, which then improved the dog's coat. If you do decide to feed eggs (for whatever reason), avoid giving them every day or raw, because of the risk of inducing biotin deficiency or the dog catching salmonella.

Shedding is a natural process, which is best 'managed' rather than stopped. First, feed a good balanced diet and use regular parasite control, for optimal skin and coat health. Next, brush the dog every day. This will capture the hair shed each day on the brush. This helps eliminate the nuclear scenario of the dog dropping hair all over the house.

Many dogs are seasonal shedders, losing their coat in the spring and fall. An especially heavy shed can indicate he had a very plush summer coat, which is now coming out. The simplest solution is to brush your dog daily all year round, which ensures you capture the hair as it is shed and reduces shed hair in the home.

This could be a sign that she grew an especially plush coat (a good thing!) the previous season, and it is most likely nothing to worry about. However, if she seems quiet, has an upset stomach, or has changes in her eating and drinking habits, then she could use a vet check up.

This is not a good idea. A thick coat helps protect skin against sunburn and extremes of weather. Indeed, some shaved dogs seem depressed afterwards and seem to dislike their new look. Instead, spend 5 - 10 minutes every day brushing and combing your dog, in order to capture the shed hair on the grooming tools.