We all love our dogs, fur and all. We just love their fur a little less when it's carpeting the floor or clinging to our favorite outfit. Luckily, for pet parents of dogs that shed a lot, you don't have to settle for living with gray dust bunnies and dog-hair tumbleweeds crossing the living room.
Use these effective and safe supplements and vitamins for dogs to stop the shedding, or at least really cut down on all that extra fur. Then breathe in that fresh air!
Supplements and Chewables
Companion Promise Shed Essentials Plus for Dogs
- A complete solution for reducing shedding with essential fatty acids
- Improves the health of your dog's skin and coat
Shed X Dog
- A daily nutritional supplement for skin and coat health
- Fortified with zinc and antioxidants
- A delicious taste your dog will love
Lipiderm
- Stops excess shedding, itching, scratching, and can even help with flea allergy dermatitis
- Scientifically designed for better, faster absorption so the product gets to work more quickly
Shed Less and Feel Good Skin for Dogs
- Reduces shedding with flaxseed, vitamin D-3, vitamin B-12, and other essentials
- Chewable tab is easy to give and easy for your dog to digest
- Dogs love the beef and cheese flavor
AKC Skin and Coat
- From the American Kennel Club, the nation's leading authority on dogs
- Contains a veterinarian-recommended blend of natural oils, herbs, minerals, antioxidants and vitamins
Shampoos to Reduce Shedding
Groomers Blend Shed Defense Shampoo
- Packed with fatty acids, moisturizers, and antioxidants
- Great grapefruit and thyme fragrance
- Safe for dogs and cat over 12 weeks old
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Shampoo
- Select ingredients infuse your dog's coat with essential nutrients and moisture as you wash
- Exfoliates and moisturizes at the same time
Furminator deShedding Shampoo
- Contains vitamins and proteins to strengthen your pet's coat and reduce shedding naturally
- Non-drying, non-irritating, and hypoallergenic
- Used and recommended by vets
Furminator deShedding Conditioner
- Use this after Furminator deShedding Shampoo for double the results
- Releases your dog's undercoat during bathing to reduce shedding later
- No artificial colors or dyes
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a dog to shed excessively?
There are many factors that lead a dog to shed excessively. First and foremost, the dog’s breed is important since certain breeds naturally shed more than others owing to different types of coats. Increased shedding can also be brought on by seasonal changes, with dogs often losing their winter coats in anticipation of warmer weather. But excessive shedding that goes beyond what is thought to be typical may be a sign of underlying health problems or poor grooming practices. Excessive shedding can be caused by nutritional inadequacies, such as a deficiency in vital fatty acids or a generally poor diet. Excessive shedding can also be brought on by skin allergies and irritations brought on by environmental triggers such as pollen, dust mites, or certain chemicals. Parasitic infestations, such as fleas, ticks, or mites, can cause dogs to shed excessively due to the discomfort and itchiness they induce. Hormonal imbalances, including thyroid or adrenal gland issues, may also result in abnormal shedding patterns. Stress and anxiety can manifest physically in dogs, leading to increased shedding as a response. Additionally, underlying medical conditions like dermatitis, fungal or bacterial infections, or autoimmune disorders can trigger excessive shedding.
What months do dogs shed the most?
The shedding patterns of dogs can vary depending on the breed, climate, and individual differences. However, there are general trends regarding the months when dogs tend to shed the most. Most dogs go through a seasonal shed, often known as "blowing coat," which takes place twice a year. The two main seasons for shedding are usually spring and fall. Dogs lose their winter coats to prepare for the warmer weather during the spring shedding season, which normally occurs between March and May in the Northern Hemisphere. Increased daylight hours have an impact on this shedding, which aids in their adaptation to higher temperatures. Similar to humans, dogs shed their summer coats during the fall shedding season, which runs from September to November. This makes room for a thicker winter coat. Hence, the shedding helps them get used to the colder weather. These seasonal shedding patterns are particularly evident in double-coated breeds, which have a dense undercoat and a longer topcoat.
How can I reduce my dog’s shedding?
Reducing your dog's shedding can be accomplished through a variety of strategies that promote a healthy coat and general well-being. Controlling shedding requires routine grooming. Frequent brushing of your dog's coat, particularly with a slicker brush or de-shedding tool, helps to remove loose and dead hair and keeps it from ending up all over your house. Pay specific attention to double-coated breeds since their undercoats tend to shed more. A high-quality, moisturizing shampoo will help keep your dog's coat healthy and reduce shedding. Use a shampoo designed specifically for dogs to prevent drying out their skin. A healthy diet that is balanced and rich in nutrients, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, helps reduce shedding and enhances the health of your dog's coat. Lastly, Avoid overfeeding, as excessive weight can contribute to skin and coat issues. However, you should talk to your veterinarian for recommendations on the best diet for your dog's specific needs.
Do eggs help with dog shedding?
Eggs can be a wholesome addition to a dog's diet and help to maintain a healthy coat and skin, but this does not mean that they reduce shedding on their own. Protein, amino acids, and biotin are all abundant in eggs and are vital elements for a healthy coat. Biotin has been particularly found to enhance the health of the coat and skin. However, excessive shedding can be brought on by a number of things, such as underlying medical conditions or inadequate nutrition, and the issue is unlikely to be resolved by merely having eggs in your dog's diet. In order to determine the main reason for excessive shedding and take the necessary action against it, you should speak with your veterinarian.
Should you put coconut oil on your dog?
Coconut oil can be beneficial for dogs, especially when used in moderation and applied topically. It contains medium-chain fatty acids that can provide moisturizing properties to a dog's skin and coat. Applying a small amount of coconut oil can help alleviate dryness, soothe minor irritations, and prevent a flaky coat. However, keep in mind that coconut oil should be used sparingly and with caution. Some dogs may have allergic reactions or sensitivities to coconut oil, so it's advisable to perform a patch test before applying it more generously. Furthermore, excessive consumption of coconut oil is not advised due to its high calorie and saturated fat content, which can result in weight gain and other health problems. If you're thinking about giving coconut oil to your dog, talk to your vet first to make sure it's suitable for your dog's needs and to find out how much and how to apply it.
More on Grooming Dogs
Skin and Coat Care: A Pet Parent's Guide
Small Dog Grooming
The Best Cat and Dog Grooming Supplies
