Autumn Shedding: Boost Your Dog's Coat
As the colder autumn days come, your dog’s coat thickens to protect them from the winter chill. Though natural, this process can be messy. Here are a few tips to help you and your dog manage shedding season more easily:
1. The Right Diet for a Shiny Dog Coat
Healthy skin and coat start from within, so during shedding season, make sure your dog gets a balanced diet rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Foods rich in fish and fish oils, which contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, promote healthy coat growth and reduce skin dryness. Supplements like salmon oil can also help improve coat quality.
2. Regular Brushing Reduces Dog Shedding
Not only does it remove loose hair before it ends up all over your home, furniture, and clothes but it is also beneficial for your dog. Brushing stimulates the skin’s circulation, distributes natural oils that keep the coat shiny and soft, and eases the shedding process. This is especially important for dogs with long or double coats, where daily brushing during autumn is essential.
3. Bathing Your Dog, But Not Too Often
Bathing helps remove dead hair and keep the skin clean, but frequent baths can dry out the skin, cause itching, and worsen shedding. Use gentle, dog-specific shampoos and limit baths to once a month during shedding season unless necessary.
4. Keeping Your Dog Hydrated for Healthy Skin
Dry autumn air and indoor heating can dry out your dog's skin, so regular hydration is key to keeping their skin elastic and coat shiny. Always ensure your dog has access to fresh water, and consider dietary supplements if you notice dry skin. Hydrating sprays for dogs can also help relieve itching.
5. Supplements to Boost Your Dog’s Coat Health
Supplements can help with dull and brittle hair. Biotin, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids strengthen hair roots and promote healthy coat growth. These supplements are especially useful during shedding season when your dog undergoes intense coat changes.
6. When Dog Shedding Becomes a Problem
Unusual hair loss or bald spots may indicate allergies or parasites. Excessive scratching, licking, or biting specific areas can be signs of skin irritation, allergies, or dryness. If your dog’s coat is brittle and lifeless, they may be lacking essential nutrients. In these cases, it’s best to consult a vet.
Though shedding can be frustrating for owners, use this season to improve your dog’s coat health and strengthen your bond during grooming sessions. Most importantly, make this transition easier for your dog. And don’t forget to check out Le ChouChou’s range of luxury dog harnesses, offering comfort and safety this season while perfectly complementing sweaters or coats for a stylish autumn look!
