Most dogs change their coat twice a year. You should provide your dog with the best possible support during this time.
Why do dogs shed their coats?
In spring , we can well imagine that it makes sense for dogs to shed their thick winter coat. After all, dogs are barely able to sweat and therefore need to shed their warm undercoat and thick top coat. But why in the fall? They could simply keep their summer coat and let a few more hairs grow back. Unfortunately, this doesn't work, because space must first be radically created so that new hair can then grow back. As the winter coat is usually much thicker than the summer coat, spring is a difficult time for many dog owners.
Do all dogs shed?
Dogs shed to very different degrees. Some have virtually no shedding, while others lose a lot of hair. This is mainly due to the significantly different coat structure of our dogs: if you have a Poodle, Labradoodle or Yorkshire Terrier at home, the issue of shedding is of relatively little concern to you.
This is because these dogs shed virtually no hair. In these breeds, the typical shedding in spring and fall is more or less non-existent. However, coat care is essential - depending on the coat structure, the coat must be cut, clipped or trimmed.
What triggers shedding?
A dog's coat change is triggered by the length of daylight and the temperature. The more a dog spends outside, the more noticeable the differences are and the more it will react to them. On average, our winters are no longer as cold as they used to be. Accordingly, a winter coat is less necessary or only necessary for a shorter period of time. Some dogs only have slight peaks and shed more or less evenly throughout the year. In addition to "apartment dogs", this often also applies to neutered animals. In contrast, bitches often shed more before they go into heat.
How long does the shedding period last?
The length and severity of the shedding period depends primarily on the breed, coat structure and age of the dog. On average, it lasts six to seven weeks.
Problems with shedding in dogs
For most dogs , shedding takes place without complications. However, sometimes difficulties can arise: bald patches in the coat, a dull coat or increased dandruff are just a few examples. In such cases, you should take your dog to the vet.
Support during shedding
Daily grooming is particularly important during the shedding period. On the one hand, daily grooming naturally reduces the amount of hair in the home. On the other hand, you actively support your dog during the shedding period. This is because the body is under greater strain during the shedding period. Of course, this also depends on the coat: short-haired breeds such as the Whippet or Boxer have it very easy. Changing the coat of dogs with a light undercoat, such as German Shepherds or Labradors, is somewhat more difficult. However, support is most important for dogs with long hair and a lot of undercoat, such as the Spitz or Newfoundland.
Coat care for the dog
Coat care depends, among other things, on whether and how much undercoat a dog has. The more undercoat there is, the more important it is to use different grooming utensils. It is best to ask the breeder which brushes, combs or grooming gloves are suitable. A special technique is required for rough-haired dogs that need to be trimmed. This special plucking technique is not everyone's cup of tea, just like cutting or clipping a dog with curls. This special coat care always belongs in the hands of professionals.