Your Dog’s Shedding — Normal or Excess?
This time of year, when the sun begins to shine a little longer each day and the heat index starts to rise, you may notice something… Your dog is leaving little hair tumbleweeds across the tiles. Shedding can be a major problem for some breeds, and many pet owners have the lint rollers in hand and vacuums going strong.
Shedding is a normal process of keeping your dog’s skin and coat healthy. There are times, though, when hair loss can signal a larger issue. The team at Oakland Veterinary Referral Services wants to tackle the question of shedding and explore the causes and conditions of excess shedding.
If your dog is shedding when the temperatures start to rise, mid- to late spring and continuing through the summer months, this is probably normal shedding. The old or damaged hairs fall out to make way for new hair growth. Shedding also facilitates the disbursement of natural oils that keep the coat healthy.
But how much shedding is normal? That varies by dog based on several factors:
Other factors such as changes in your dog’s hormones after pregnancy, or your dog’s nutrition can influence the amount of hair that your dog sheds. The coarseness and texture of the fur can also affect how much is shed.
Anxiety can trigger a number of health problems in humans, including hair loss. This is also true for canines. When your dog is nervous on a car ride or is fearful at the veterinarian’s office, you may have noticed that they shed a lot. But why is this?
When your dog is stressed, a release of epinephrine — also known as adrenaline — releases the hair. It’s unclear why this occurs, but you can be sure that when your Fido or Princess gets a scare, the fur will indeed fly.
Unfortunately, some dogs have chronic stress due to behavioral issues or situations that cause them to be fearful. This is especially noticeable in a shelter environment, for example. A change at home, such as an additional pet or a move, can also trigger stress.
If the stress is temporary — like those terrifying trips in the car, or the vacuum’s roar — then it’s probably nothing to worry about. If your dog has chronic stress because of a behavioral challenge (such as fear of socialization), it’s another matter. You will want to get the advice of your veterinarian or Veterinary Behaviorist. Chronic stress can have adverse effects on your dog’s health in ways that go beyond just shedding. Professional consultation is necessary.
You can help relieve general stress with the use of:
The base of the shedding issue lies in the stress hormones that are released into the bloodstream, much like our own stress responses. If you notice excessive shedding, licking, panting, yawning, or other unusual behavior, your dog is having a stress reaction to a new situation and needs some positive affection. The creation of a “safe space,” and a feeling of comfort should help him calm down and relieve the effects of the stressor.
Play and exercise with your dog – Dogs love playing and physical activity. And, much like people, a good jog or game of fetch can be a great reducer of stress in your pet, increasing positive hormones while letting them burn off some of that anxiety.
Providing a balanced diet – This may seem like an odd one, but making sure your dog’s diet is balanced, healthy, and proper for their age can help prevent health issues that may cause stress and anxiety.
Vet visits are naturally stressful for your pup. Unfortunately, some dogs are more prone to stress and anxiety than others; the simple routine of the yearly checkup can be a great source of stress to your dog, and you may find them shedding excessively on the way to the vet and for several days after the visit.
Conflict or strong emotion from you is always a stressor. If you’ve been feeling higher stress, have had some conflict in your family, or have been experiencing strong emotions, your dog will pick up on that. Because you’re part of their pack, they may have similar reactions to you, and may also be stressed that they can’t seem to help you feel better.
Reasons Why Dogs Shed Their Coats
A dog’s fur helps control their body temperature and protects their skin against the sun and other environmental elements.
When a dog’s hair stops growing, they will naturally lose it by shedding.
The amount and frequency of shedding will depend on several factors, including:
Although dogs naturally shed, hair loss can also be caused by stress or health issues. Here are a few of the most common causes of shedding in dogs and what you should look out for.
Dogs, especially double-coated breeds, typically shed their undercoats during the spring and fall.
Heavy-shedding breeds include:
What might seem like heavy shedding can be completely normal for some dogs, but it can also be the result of an underlying health condition. If you notice excessive shedding, contact your veterinarian to set up an appointment.
If there’s been a big change in your dog’s environment, the amount of hair they shed can increase. Dogs also tend to shed more when in stressful situations, like going to the vet’s office.
If you think your dog may be experiencing stress- or anxiety-induced shedding, talk with your veterinarian. They can refer you to a qualified, board-certified veterinary behaviorist.
These vets are experts in the treatment of behavioral issues. Additionally, they can help you find solutions like anti-anxiety medications or over-the-counter supplements.
Certain skin disorders may also lead to hair loss and bald patches.
For example, an infestation of parasites, like fleas, lice, or mites, can cause excessive hair loss.
Ringworm, dermatitis, and certain types of fungal infections, immune diseases, and cancers can cause hair loss, too.
If you notice skin irritations, like bumps, scabs, or a rash, in addition to hair loss, speak with your veterinarian immediately.
Allergies are another cause of shedding in dogs. Certain foods, medications, household cleaners, and grooming supplies may trigger allergic reactions in dogs.
Allergies fall into four categories:
These allergies can result in hair loss or shedding. Your veterinarian can help pinpoint the offending allergen and find the most effective treatment.
10 SIGNS of STRESS in DOGS How to Help With Anxiety
Do you have a dog who sheds a lot? Is there anything you can do to stop this problem, or at least to lessen it? What are the most common causes of shedding in dogs, and what can you do to help?
In the article below, you’ll find answers to these questions and more. We’ll provide a quick but concise list of the most common causes of canine shedding as well as some suggestions you can try when dealing with a dog who sheds a lot. Read through the information below to find out more.
Your dog’s breed has a lot to do with her shedding. Some breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, are naturally prone to excessive shedding. Other breeds, like Poodles, may not shed at all. Consider the breed or breeds that make up your dog when thinking about their shedding.
When the weather turns hot outside, your dog will naturally shed more than they do at other times of the year. This is also true when you first start to run the heater during the winter months.
If you do not regularly groom your dog—even if they have short hair, you may notice more shedding than normal. Bathing and brushing your dog reduces shedding and is a necessary part of dog ownership with most breeds. Unless your dog is hairless or has curly hair, plan to brush and bathe them often to cut back on shedding issues.
Sometimes, dogs may develop such severe anxiety that it causes them to lose their hair. Dogs with separation anxiety may be particularly prone to excessive shedding due to stress and anxiety. You may notice your dog’s shedding increasing after you have been away from home for a while if this is the cause.
Food allergies can be a cause of hair loss in dogs. If your dog’s coat seems to be in poor condition and looks dull, this could indicate food allergy. Dandruff and excessive shedding can also be signs of food allergies, especially if they are seen along with stomach upset after eating. Before making adjustments to your pet’s diet, however, it is recommended to consult with their veterinarian.
Several skin problems and conditions can contribute to hair loss. Dogs who shed a lot may have bacterial or fungal infections of the skin or could be dealing with issues such as hot spots. Even severe flea infestations can lead to excessive hair loss, so check your dog’s skin carefully for signs of a problem.
Some other health problems and chronic conditions can lead to hair loss in dogs as well. Your dog may show many symptoms of problems like this, so look for other signs to indicate that she may be losing her hair due to illness.
Proper grooming can go a long way toward improving your pet’s coat health and cutting down on shedding, too. With regular baths and brushing, your dog will shed less because you will be able to remove dead hair during the grooming session instead. Work with a professional groomer if you’re unable to groom your dog yourself at home.
If your dog’s hair loss is associated with anxiety, managing that anxiety can help cut down on the hair loss issue as well. Training can improve your dog’s anxiety by giving her something to think about and providing mental stimulation. Your vet may need to prescribe anxiety medication in severe instances.
Although some pets can develop skin and coat issues due to diet ingredients, we recommend to consult with your pet’s veterinarian prior to changing their diet.