With autumn comes a scene every dog owner knows well: hair absolutely everywhere. Dog shedding is a natural process that ramps up as the seasons change and, while you can't prevent it entirely, you can definitely manage it. In this guide we explain why it happens, how long dog shedding lasts and what you can do to reduce it and keep your home cleaner.
Why dogs shed
A dog's coat goes through a cycle of growth, rest and fall. Twice a year, in spring and autumn, that cycle speeds up to adapt the coat to the new temperature: your dog drops the old coat to make room for one better suited to the season. That's why in September and October you notice far more loose hair than usual. It's completely normal and healthy.
Several factors affect how heavy the shed is:
- The breed: double-coated dogs such as the husky, the German shepherd or the border collie shed far more.
- Daylight: hours of sunlight regulate the hair cycle, which is why it shifts with the seasons.
- Diet: a poor diet dries out the coat and increases hair loss.
- Health: stress or certain skin problems can trigger a sharp rise in shedding.
How long does dog shedding last
The seasonal shed usually lasts between two and four weeks, though it varies with breed and climate. In heated flats, many dogs shed more gently but all year round, because the indoor temperature stays constant. If you notice a very sudden loss, with bald patches or irritated skin, that isn't a normal shed: it's worth seeing your vet.
How to reduce dog shedding
You can't stop it completely, but with a few simple habits dog shedding becomes far more manageable, and your home will thank you:
- Brush daily: by far the most effective measure. You lift the dead hair before it ends up on the sofa.
- Look after their diet: quality food, rich in omega fatty acids, strengthens the coat.
- Bath in moderation: the occasional bath helps release dead hair, but don't overdo it or you'll dry out the skin.
- Hydration: make sure they drink enough and keep the air in your home from getting too dry.
Even with thorough brushing, some hair always ends up on clothes and furniture. That's where a self-cleaning pet hair remover comes into its own: it lifts hair off the sofa, the bed or the cushions in seconds and is reusable, with no refills to buy.
Brushing, your best ally
During the shed, the ideal is to brush every day with a brush suited to their coat type. Short-haired dogs only need a grooming mitt or a rubber brush; for double-coated dogs, a slicker brush or an undercoat rake that reaches the underlayer works better. Do it in a calm moment and with a gentle hand, and take the chance to check the skin is healthy, with no redness or parasites. Beyond cutting down the hair around the house, it's a good bonding moment with your dog.
Conclusion
Shedding is part of a dog's life and there's no need to worry: with regular brushing, good food and the right tools it becomes much easier to live with. Learn to tell when a shed is normal and when it's worth a vet visit, and enjoy autumn with your dog and with far less hair around the house. At Velia Select you'll find practical accessories for your pet's daily care.