Shedding season in dogs: Tips to manage the hair overload

The most important points in brief

What happens during the shedding of fur?

Your dog's coat consists of two layers: the visible guard hairs and the undercoat beneath. The guard hairs protect against UV rays, moisture, and dirt. The undercoat provides insulation – against the cold in winter and against overheating in summer.

During shedding season, the entire coat is renewed. In spring, your dog sheds its thick winter coat and grows a lighter summer coat. In autumn, the opposite happens: the summer coat gives way to a thicker winter coat with a warm undercoat.

The body performs truly remarkable feats during this time. Millions of new hairs are produced in just a few weeks. No wonder some dogs are a little more tired and need more rest than usual during shedding season.

When does the shedding of fur take place?

The shedding of winter coats is not triggered by temperature, but by the length of daylight. As the days lengthen in spring, the pineal gland in the brain produces less melatonin – the signal for the body to shed its winter coat. In autumn, when the days shorten, melatonin production increases again and the winter coat grows back.

The "hairiest" months

• Spring: April and May – this is when the shedding of fur is most intense, because the dense undercoat is shed.
• Autumn: September and October – somewhat less intense, as the coat tends to thicken rather than thin.

Dogs that spend a lot of time indoors in heated rooms may experience a more even shedding pattern throughout the year. They are less affected by seasonal changes in light and therefore shed continuously, rather than in two intense phases.

How long does the shedding process take?

On average, the shedding process lasts about 6 to 8 weeks. However, depending on breed, age, and health, it can be shorter or longer. For some dogs, it's all over in four weeks, while for others the process takes two to three months.

These factors influence the duration

• Breed and coat type: Dogs with a lot of undercoat (Husky, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever) shed longer and more intensely.
• Age: In older dogs, the metabolism slows down, and the shedding process takes correspondingly longer.
• Hormonal balance: Neutered dogs often shed more than unneutered ones. In female dogs, being in heat can affect shedding.
• Health: A healthy dog ​​with a good diet sheds its coat faster and more evenly.

The puppy's first shedding

Which dogs shed less?

Not all dog breeds go through the classic shedding cycle. In some breeds, the hair grows continuously instead of being replaced seasonally. These dogs hardly shed and are therefore often considered "allergy-friendly"—although no breed is truly allergy-free.

Breeds without a typical coat change

• Poodles and poodle mixes: Labradoodle, Goldendoodle, Maltipoo
• Curly-haired breeds: Bichon Frisé, Lagotto Romagnolo, Portuguese Water Dog
• Long-haired breeds without an undercoat: Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier, Havanese

Here's how you can support your dog

1. Brush regularly

The most important thing during shedding season: regular brushing. This removes loose hair before it ends up on the sofa and carpet, and stimulates blood circulation in the skin. This promotes the growth of new hair and prevents skin problems.

How often?

• During shedding season: daily or every other day
• Outside of shedding season: 1-3 times per week, depending on coat type

The right brush:

• Long-haired breeds with an undercoat (Golden Retriever, Australian Shepherd): undercoat brush or slicker brush
• Short-haired breeds (Jack Russell, Labrador): Rubber curry comb or brush with soft nubs
• Wire-haired breeds (Wire-haired Dachshund, Fox Terrier): metal comb or wire brush
• Curly coat (Poodles, Doodles): Detangler and comb with long, rounded teeth

2. Pay attention to your diet

Hair consists mostly of protein (keratin). During shedding season, your dog's need for high-quality proteins, fatty acids, and certain nutrients increases.

These nutrients support a healthy coat:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Salmon oil or linseed oil promote a shiny coat and healthy skin.
• Biotin: Supports keratin formation
• Zinc: Important for skin and coat health
• High-quality protein: Provides the building blocks for new hair

A dash of high-quality oil (salmon, flaxseed, or hemp oil) sprinkled over the food can work wonders during shedding season. If you are unsure about the dosage, consult your veterinarian.

3. Don't bathe too often

You should only bathe your dog during shedding season in emergencies. Water and shampoo damage the skin's natural protective acid mantle – which is especially important at this time. If bathing is unavoidable, use a mild dog shampoo and rinse thoroughly.

4. Offer plenty of water

Adequate hydration supports metabolism and therefore also the shedding process. Make sure your dog always has fresh water available.

Typical accompanying symptoms

The shedding of fur can be accompanied by some symptoms that may initially seem alarming, but are usually harmless:

• Increased itching: This can be caused by loose hairs poking the skin or by clogged sebaceous glands. Regular brushing helps.
• Fatigue: The body is working at full capacity. A little more rest is perfectly normal.
• Dry skin and dandruff: This can occur and usually improves with good nutrition and coat care.

When to go to the vet?

A healthy shedding process results in shiny, evenly growing fur. However, you should seek veterinary advice if you notice any of the following signs:

• Bald patches: Individual areas without fur are not a normal part of shedding.
• Skin redness or inflammation: Can indicate allergies, fungi, or parasites.
• Extreme itching: If your dog is constantly scratching, biting, or licking itself
• Dull, lackluster fur: Can indicate malnutrition or illness.
• Year-round heavy hair loss: Shedding should decrease significantly outside of the shedding seasons.

Excessive hair loss can be caused by parasites, allergies, fungal infections, hormonal imbalances, or other illnesses. A veterinarian can determine the cause.

Hair in the home: Practical tips

It's impossible to completely avoid hair loss – but it can be contained:

• Brush outdoors: Ideally in the garden or park, so the hair doesn't stay in the apartment.
• Blankets for favorite spots: Easier to wash than a sofa or carpet
• Lint roller at hand: For quick cleanups of clothing
• Robot vacuum cleaner: At least reduces the base load
• Rubber broom: Collects hair on smooth floors more effectively than a normal broom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I speed up the shedding process?

Yes, to some extent – ​​through daily brushing and a nutrient-rich diet. The body can then work more efficiently. However, the process cannot be drastically shortened; it takes time.

My dog ​​sheds all year round. Is that normal?

For dogs that spend most of their time indoors, this can be normal – they don't experience the changes in light as much. However, shedding should be more intense in spring and autumn. If your dog sheds very heavily and consistently year-round, have it checked by a veterinarian.

Is it okay to shave my dog ​​during shedding season?

For most breeds, this is not a good idea. The coat protects against UV rays and regulates temperature. After shearing, the coat can grow back differently – coarser, thinner, or with an altered texture. Exceptions are breeds that need to be groomed regularly anyway (Poodles, etc.).

Why does my neutered dog shed more?

Neutering alters the hormonal balance, which can affect coat growth. Many neutered dogs develop a somewhat denser, "woolly" coat and shed more. This is normal and nothing to worry about.

Conclusion

Shedding is a natural process that occurs twice a year and requires a few weeks of extra work – for you with a brush and vacuum cleaner, and for your dog with its metabolism. Regular grooming, a balanced diet, and a little patience will help your dog get through this time well. And the sheer amount of hair in the house? That's simply part of living with a dog.