Help! My Dog is Shedding Like Crazy!

Just about all of our canine companions shed—for dogs, it’s simply a part of life. However, sometimes dogs can shed excessively. If you’ve noticed a great deal of dog hair floating around your home or getting caked on furniture and carpets, it may be time to address the issue. Learn more below from a vet in Pickerington, OH:

Daily Brushing

Brushing your dog on a daily basis will do wonders for controlling the amount he sheds. Not only does the act of brushing trap much of Fido’s loose or dead fur in the brush itself, it spreads essential skin oils through the entire coat. This moisturizes your dog’s fur naturally, reducing shedding at the outset. Ask your vet to recommend a great bristle type for your dog’s coat of fur. The occasional bath is another good way to wash out loose fur, keep your dog’s skin clean, and keep your pooch looking and smelling their absolute best. Always use a canine-formulated shampoo, and be careful not to overdo bathing. If you bathe your pet too frequently, it can dry out the skin, backfiring and causing more shedding rather than less!

Diet Change

When your dog doesn’t receive the right nutrients through his diet, the skin and fur health is one of the first things that can suffer. In fact, a poor diet is one of the leading causes of lackluster coat quality amongst our canine companions. Consult your veterinarian to get a recommendation on a high-quality, well-balanced diet for your dog’s needs. You’ll be amazed at the difference a great food choice can make!

Dietary Supplements

For some dogs, a change of diet alone may not be the solution. Dietary supplements are often prescribed to help with a dog’s skin health and fur quality—this might be the trick your dog needs to help keep the fur shiny, smooth, and healthy. Ask your vet if a dietary supplement may work for your dog.

Visit Your Vet

If you still can’t seem to control the amount of dog hair found around your house, or if your dog’s shedding has seemingly increased in drastic fashion, it’s time to pay a visit to the vet’s office to have your dog examined. Medical issues—parasites, skin infection, and more—could be the root cause of the problem! Set up an appointment at your Pickerington, OH veterinary clinic today if your dog needs attention.