Is Your Dog Shedding A Lot? Here’s What You Can Do

Shedding is a natural part of a dog’s life. It helps them get rid of old or damaged fur and maintain a healthy coat. But when shedding becomes excessive, pet parents often start worrying, especially if clumps of fur are everywhere or their dog’s coat looks thinner than usual. While some shedding is normal, excessive shedding in dogs may point to underlying issues ranging from diet deficiencies to allergies or even medical conditions.

Normal vs Excessive Shedding in Dogs

Normal Seasonal Shedding

Most dogs shed more heavily during spring and fall as they adjust their coat for changing temperatures. Breeds with double coats, such as Huskies or German Shepherds, tend to shed significantly during these times.

Signs of Excessive Shedding

Excessive shedding goes beyond seasonal changes. Warning signs include bald patches, redness, itching, scabs, or skin irritation. If your dog’s shedding seems constant, uneven, or accompanied by discomfort, it may indicate a health issue rather than routine hair loss.

Common Causes of Excessive Shedding in Dogs

Poor Nutrition

A lack of essential fatty acids, vitamins, or proteins can lead to a dull coat and excessive shedding. Dogs need balanced diets with proper nutrients to maintain healthy skin and fur.

Allergies

Environmental triggers like pollen, dust mites, or mold, as well as food allergies, can cause irritation that leads to scratching and increased hair loss.

Parasites

Fleas, ticks, and mites can irritate the skin, causing dogs to scratch, bite, and pull out fur. Mange is another parasite-related condition that often results in severe shedding and bald spots.

Stress and Anxiety

Dogs under stress may shed more than usual. Changes in their environment, such as moving houses, new pets, or loud noises, can trigger stress-induced hair loss.

Skin Infections or Illness

Bacterial or fungal infections can weaken the skin and coat, leading to patches of hair loss. Hormonal disorders like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease may also cause abnormal shedding.

Immediate Steps To Take

Stay Calm and Observe

Observe the shedding pattern, noting if it’s generalized or localized, and check for skin changes like redness, flakes, or sores. Look for fleas, ticks, or moving dandruff (mites).

Groom Gently (If Advised)

If your vet has previously recommended grooming for shedding, brush your dog’s coat with a soft-bristled brush or deshedding tool to remove loose hair. Use gentle strokes to avoid skin irritation.

Things To Avoid

Do not use human shampoos, lotions, or oils, as they can irritate canine skin or mask symptoms. Avoid over-bathing, as it strips natural oils, worsening shedding. Refrain from using human medications (e.g., antihistamines, steroids) without vet guidance, as they can be toxic or delay diagnosis.

Contact Your Veterinarian

Call your veterinarian and describe the shedding pattern, skin appearance, and any related symptoms (e.g., lethargy, odor). You can reach out to a Cuddlytails vet here.

Seek emergency care if your dog shows:

• Rapid hair loss with open wounds or hot spots.
• Swelling, hives, or breathing difficulty (possible allergic reaction).
• Severe lethargy, fever, or refusal to eat indicates a systemic issue.
  Keep contact information for a 24-hour emergency clinic handy for after-hours emergencies.

What Happens At The Vet

Veterinary Examination

Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam, focusing on the skin, coat, and affected areas. They’ll check for parasites, infections, or hormonal signs (e.g., weight gain for hypothyroidism). Questions about diet, grooming, environment, or recent stressors will guide the diagnosis.

Diagnostic Tests

To identify the cause, your vet may perform:

• Skin Scraping/Cytology: Detects mites, bacteria, or yeast under a microscope.
• Flea Comb Test: Checks for fleas or flea dirt (black specks).
• Allergy Testing: Intradermal or blood tests to identify environmental or food allergens.
• Culture/Sensitivity: Identifies specific bacteria or fungi for targeted treatment.
• Blood Work: Evaluates for hormonal imbalances (e.g., hypothyroidism, Cushing’s) or nutritional deficiencies.
• Food Trial: Eliminates potential allergens over 8–12 weeks to confirm food allergies.
• Biopsy: Examines skin samples for autoimmune diseases or seborrhea.

Treatment Options

Treatment targets the underlying cause:

• Seasonal Shedding: Regular grooming with deshedding tools; no medical treatment needed unless excessive.
• Allergies: Antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine), steroids (e.g., prednisone), or immunotherapy for environmental allergies; hypoallergenic diets for food allergies.
• Parasites: Vet-approved flea/tick treatments (e.g., selamectin) or antiparasitics (e.g., ivermectin for mange); treat all household pets.
• Skin Infections: Antibiotics (e.g., cephalexin) for bacterial infections or antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole) for yeast, often with medicated shampoos.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Omega-3 supplements, zinc, or prescription diets to improve coat health.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Medications like levothyroxine for hypothyroidism or trilostane for Cushing’s disease.
• Seborrhea: Medicated shampoos (e.g., sulfur-based) or oral medications for severe cases.
• Stress/Anxiety: Anti-anxiety medications or behavioral training with a veterinary behaviorist.
  Complete medication courses and follow grooming schedules to prevent recurrence.

Preventing Excessive Shedding in Dogs

Regular Vet Checkups

Routine wellness visits ensure early detection of skin conditions, allergies, or metabolic issues that could contribute to shedding. Prevention and early intervention are always better than treatment after problems worsen.

Consistent Grooming Routine

Regular brushing not only keeps shedding manageable but also strengthens your bond with your dog. For heavy shedders, daily grooming is recommended.

Improve Diet Quality

Feeding your dog high-quality food with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids supports skin and coat health. Adding supplements, such as fish oil (only under veterinary advice), can help reduce shedding.

Flea and Parasite Prevention

Keeping your dog on year-round flea and tick prevention can reduce irritation-related shedding. Regular checkups for mites or other parasites are equally important.

Conclusion

Shedding is a natural process for dogs, but when it becomes excessive, it can indicate something more than just a seasonal change. By paying attention to your dog’s coat health, diet, grooming routine, and overall well-being, you can often manage shedding at home. However, persistent or severe shedding should never be ignored; seeking veterinary care ensures your dog stays comfortable, healthy, and happy.

FAQs

Why is my dog shedding so much?

Common causes include seasonal changes, allergies, parasites, infections, or hormonal imbalances. A vet can diagnose with skin tests or blood work.

Is excessive shedding an emergency?

Seek emergency care for rapid hair loss with wounds, swelling, or breathing issues, as these may indicate allergies or infections requiring urgent treatment.

Can I treat my dog’s shedding at home?

Avoid human products or over-bathing, as they can worsen shedding. Use vet-approved shampoos or supplements and consult a vet for proper care.

How can I prevent excessive shedding?

Regular grooming, year-round flea prevention, a balanced diet, and vet checkups help. Minimize allergen exposure and manage stress.

What treatments are available for excessive shedding?

Treatments include flea control, allergy medications, antibiotics, antifungals, or supplements, depending on the cause, with grooming for support.