Dog shedding is part of dog ownership. While you can't exactly
cure dog shedding, there are some steps you can take to minimize
excessive dog shedding.
How to Control Shedding
Grooming is the key to controlling dog hair shedding. You know
the hair is going to fall out. It is better to brush your dog's
coat daily and remove the hair yourself than to have dog hair
all over the floor, furniture and your clothes.
Some dogs shed seasonally, such as in the spring when they are
shedding their winter coats, and may require twice daily
brushings during those periods. In general, dogs with smooth
coats will need brushing approximately once or twice a week,
while dogs with silky coats will need brushing three to four
times a week. Long haired dogs require daily brushing to keep
their coats looking their best.
Feeding your dog a high quality food with Omega 3 fatty acids
will help keep him healthy and keep his coat shiny. Also, vacuum
frequently to keep your house dog hair free. Some dogs don't
mind being vacuumed themselves!
If you allow your dog on the furniture, designate one chair or
area he is allowed and put a furniture cover on it. Then you can
simply toss the cover in the washer rather than having to clean
dog hair off all your furniture. Same for the car. Dog hair is
extremely hard to get out of car upholstery and carpet. It just
seems to stick. Car seat covers help a lot, and you can use a
mat on top of the regular car mat to keep dog hair off the car
floor.
Helpful Tools and Products to Control Shedding
To help control shedding, I give my dog vitamin- and fatty
acid-rich supplements. This helps reduce shedding, gives her a
shiny coat and prevents her from getting itchy, dry skin. There
are several great supplements available from pet shops and
online pet stores.
Brushes - you may need more than one kind. Options include mat
breakers, shedding blades and slicker brushes, depending on your
dog's breed. Grooming gloves can help you remove hair as you pet
your dog.
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