If you own Labrador Retrievers, Pekingese, and Newfoundlands, you know the struggle of dealing with shedding is real. But at some point or the other, all dogs tend to shed their fur, which is considered normal in most cases.
All dog parents would agree that dog shedding is an unfortunate and natural part of owning a dog, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. You can always ensure that your home is fur-free as often as possible by using some basic ways to handle it.
If you hate stepping on stray hairs on your favorite carpet, you need to take some major steps to change the situation for the better.
5 Effective Ways Of Dealing With Dog Shedding
Although your dog’s shedding can be a pain, taking the time to groom your dog can help them to avoid this situation. It also has advantages that go beyond rectifying the shedding issue.
It can be an activity you both indulge in and allows you to spend quality time together while brushing and bathing your dog. Additionally, it will help you to monitor your dog’s progress vis-a-vis the care you provide them.
- Brush Your Dog Regularly
If there’s one thing that helps to reduce shedding, it’s brushing your dog regularly. Brushing your dog’s fur helps to remove dead hairs and distribute oils that keep the coat shiny and healthy.
Brushing your dog’s fur can be a tricky task. It can be easy to get carried away and brush too hard, especially if your dog is squirmy. Instead, start at the top of your dog’s back and work your way down, being careful not to get carried away with the details, such as their ears or faces.
Additionally, this can be a relaxing session for Heavy Shedding Dogs where you can use this time to bond with them. It also reduces the risk of your dog having an allergic reaction.
- Try an Electric De-shedding Tool
Like brushing, an electric de-shedding tool is another great way to reduce shedding. These tools use a spinning blade to remove loose hair from your dog’s coat, meaning fewer hairs will end up on your clothes.
While these tools can be a little more expensive and might require some getting used to, they are a great option for busy owners who want to reduce shedding as much as possible.
If you decide to go with an electric de-shedder, be sure to choose one that’s specifically designed for dogs. You can also check the reviews online to ensure that you get a product with all the features you need for the perfect grooming of your pet.
- Shower Your Dog Regularly
Dogs shed, yes, but they also get dirty. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, it’ll likely come back covered in dirt, grass, and other sticky substances. Regular baths can help to prevent excess shedding by removing these irritating substances that get stuck in your dog’s fur.
Although a bath won’t decrease your dog’s shedding, it will also help keep your home and clothes clean. Regular baths will also keep your dog smelling fresh, meaning they won’t annoy your neighbors with their smelly stench as easily.
- Try a Short-Haired Dog Food
Certain dog breeds are prone to sheddings, such as Labradors, Chihuahuas, and Pomeranians. If you own one of these breeds, you might notice that they shed much more than other breeds. However, certain dog foods are designed to reduce shedding.
These types of dog food are typically marketed as suitable for breeds with short hair. Short-haired dog food is full of fiber and protein, which can help reduce shedding by cleaning your dog’s digestive tract and keeping them regular.
- Use a Humane De-shedding Tool
Just like brushing and de-shedders, there are other ways to reduce shedding. You can use a humane de-shedding tool, such as a rake or scruffing mitten. While these tools may not be as effective as electric de-shedders, they are a kinder option, as they don’t remove any fur.
Instead, they gently pull the hairs out of your dog’s coat, meaning they won’t snag and snap off like they would when you remove them.
Conclusion
Dog shedding is an unfortunate reality, but there are plenty of things that you can do to make it less of a pain for yourself and your dog. Daily brushing, the occasional bath, and feeding your dog the right food are all effective ways to reduce shedding.
You must consult a vet if you discover that your dog’s shedding is not stopping even after your constant efforts, and they are still shedding too much. They might recommend a special diet or treatment to help further reduce their shedding.