Why Does My Dog Shed So Much? Here’s What Every Fur Parent Should Know
We all adore our pets, but if you find dog hair mysteriously appearing on every piece of clothing and furniture, you’re definitely not alone! Shedding is a common challenge for fur parents everywhere.
Let’s dive into what causes dogs to shed and how you can manage it better.
What Causes Dog Shedding?
1. Breed Differences
Different dog breeds have different types of coats — some have hair, others fur — and this makes a big difference in shedding.
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Hair coats (like Poodles, Maltese, or any mix with a non-shedding dog) shed very minimally, similar to how humans shed hair.
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Fur coats (whether short, long, dense, or medium) shed their undercoat to varying degrees throughout the year.
2. Mother Nature’s Influence
Seasonal changes in temperature and humidity naturally trigger shedding — dogs shed more in warmer months to keep cool and less in winter to stay warm.
But because many dogs live indoors year-round, shedding can become a nearly constant process instead of a seasonal event.
3. Should You Give Your Dog a “Summer Cut”?
That cute summer trim might feel like a great way to keep your dog cool, but many vets warn it can actually expose your pup to sunburn and other risks. It’s best to consult your vet before shaving or heavily trimming your dog’s coat.
4. Diet Matters
Your dog’s diet plays a crucial role in their coat health. Fillers like corn and grains can be hard to digest and may contribute to excessive shedding.
Feed your fur baby a balanced diet rich in lean meats, fresh fruits, and vegetables — and always keep fresh water available to prevent dehydration-related shedding.
Pro Tip: Adding a high-quality supplement like Brutus Broth, a premium bone broth for dogs, can help reduce shedding and support skin health.
5. Stress and Emotions
Dogs feel emotions just like we do, and stress or major life changes (moving, loss, etc.) can cause increased shedding.
A little extra love, patience, and supplements like Brutus Broth can help your pup bounce back and keep their coat shiny and healthy.
6. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal imbalances in dogs, similar to those in humans, can cause abnormal shedding.
If you suspect this, your vet can run tests and recommend treatment to help balance hormones and reduce fur loss.
7. Skin Issues
Parasites, infections, or dermatitis can lead to patchy or excessive shedding.
Watch for signs like bald spots, redness, bumps, or your dog licking and scratching excessively — and visit your vet promptly if you notice these symptoms.
Typical Shedding Dog Breeds:
- Siberian Husky
- Rottweiler
- Corgi
- Sheepdog
- Pyrenese
- Akita
- Chow Chow
- Shetland Sheepdog
- Labrador Retriever
- Golden Retriever
- Border Collie
- Pomeranian
- Beagle
- German Shepherd
- Bernese Mountain Dog
- Bulldog
- French Bulldog
- Saint Bernard
How to Bathe Your Shedding Dog
Step 1: Brush Thoroughly
Before bathing, brush your pup to remove loose fur and tangles.
We designed THE ONLY BRUSH for shedding dogs — with natural boar bristles on one side to smooth and nourish, and steel pins on the other to detangle and remove loose hair.
To upgrade your grooming game, try THE BATH BRUSH by PRIDE+GROOM which helps remove undercoat and stimulate skin oils during bath time.
Shampoo That Actually Helps With Shedding
Just like humans have specialized shampoos, dogs benefit from targeted formulas too.
We created PRIDE+GROOM THE SHEDDER SHAMPOO specifically for dogs with fur (not hair). This ultra-hydrating shampoo reduces shedding by nourishing skin and coat without harsh chemicals.
Key Ingredients:
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Jojoba Seed Oil — reduces shedding
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Vitamin E — restores coat health and shine
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Niaouli Oil — soothes itchy skin
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Coconut Oil — fights odor and allergies
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Avocado Oil — hydrates coat
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Flax Seed Oil — rich in Omega-3 fatty acids
Free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, toxins, dyes, and gluten.
PRIDE+GROOM Tips for Choosing The Right Veterinarian For Your Pet:
- Ask for personal recommendations
- Find a veterinarian with an expertise in treating dogs or cats
- Look for licensed personnel
- Inquire about their approach to pets and medicine. ...
- Consider the cost and location
- Both you and your pet should be comfortable with your choice
- Look for a clean facility
- Always make sure your Vet is qualified and informed with the latest research
What Customers Say:
"Best Dog Shampoo I Have Ever Used! We have had retrievers for 20 years and have gone through our share of shampoo!! This is my all time favorite. It has a light, glorious fragrance (rosemary, eucalyptus?) that is just the right amount- smells very clean. I like the nozzle so much- one handed application and great control. And the best thing of all is I like to give a fast bath and this shampoo does not build up in the dogs coat. It rinses out fast. It’s the best I have used. I will try the conditioner next- but for now I am really happy with the shampoo. I highly recommend it!!” - Reba
3. Dry Your Dog
After bathing your dog, towel dry them with the super absorbent TOWEL from PRIDE+GROOM. Our dog towel is a handsome, thick, super absorbent microfiber towel cleverly designed with pockets on either end so you can pop your hands in and get your squeaky clean pup warm and dry asap while giving him a well deserved massage.
HOW TO CONTROL SHEDDING BETWEEN BATHS
Once again…Brushing!
Several brushing sessions a week will keep the average dog neat and clean and the bonding time is an added bonus! Start brushing your puppy early to get them used to and even love the experience. Brush all the way down to the skin, to help stimulate blood circulation and loosen and remove flakes of dander.
“I was using a slicker brush on my mini schnauzer. He seems to tolerate this brush much better. A good quality brush that feels good in your hand”. -Jennifer
WHO ARE WE?
The very first beauty brand…For dogs:
PRIDE+GROOM is the first dog grooming brand launched under a beauty platform, with formulas made in a clean beauty and scent lab. We know beauty is not only skin deep, so we want to make sure all the shedders in your life give you everything you need without the extra vacuuming.
Easy, One-Handed Wash
Our cone-shaped tip, allows you to wash with one hand while massaging and soothing (and bonding) with your dog with the other. The flow-control cap ensures the formula penetrates deep into coat + skin, helping release the undercoat and reduce shedding! Plus, no waste! Our cap makes sure each bottle is good to the last drop.
Waterless Shampoo
Does your dog or cat think that bath time is a midevil torture technique? Most of the time we have no time, and hot water alone can induce itchiness after a bath. If you have a stinky dog but are short for time or a guilt trip, waterless pet shampoo is a great option. THE MANE TAME Waterless shampoo for dogs and cats is a quick way to extend the life of a groom or freshen up a coat that’s been around the block a few times too many. Flax Seed Oil, Aloe, Niaouli, Coconut and Jojoba also treat and condition your pet (who wouldn’t hear of getting in a bath!)
How to use: Dispense Waterless Foaming Dog Shampoo generously into palm and work through coat. ENJOY a stress free groom!
Bottom Line
Shedding dogs shed. There is no way to stop the shedding completely but if you follow everything we said above, you can make sure your fur baby is healthy, happy and shed is reduced to as little as possible. Shedding can feel overwhelming, but understanding the causes and using the right tools can make a huge difference. From diet and grooming to choosing the right vet and insurance, caring for your dog’s coat is a holistic journey — and your fur baby deserves the best.
"This shampoo and conditioner are awesome! We have a rescue dog that has some German Shepard. And she SHEDS! I brushed her and then washed and shampooed her the other day. I can't believe how soft she is and how she isn't shedding as much. I would have hair all over the house and now it is minimal. It smells good and goes on well. I highly recommend this for your dog!"
- Judy
More questions? Please ask as we have answers!
WHO IS PRIDE+GROOM?
PRIDE+GROOM was born because a group of New York City dog lovers wanted the same level of grooming products for their dogs that they themselves enjoyed. They looked (hard) but nothing was up to snuff. Or sniff. Like so many, we love our families and take pride in our homes, and we consider our pets to be integral parts of those entities. That said, we could not find an effective way to coif them that was on par with the way we tended to our children, our homes, or ourselves. These beloved pets are allowed on the furniture and in our beds, and yet even when fresh from the groomer, we knew they did not smell or feel as good as they could.
With the development of our coat-specific shampoos, conditioner and deodorizing spray, we think we found just the way to say thanks for being the best and the sweetest MVP of the house. Skin and coat health is very important to us.
PRIDE+GROOM is the first dog grooming brand launched under a beauty platform, with formulas made in a clean beauty and scent lab. We know beauty is not only skin deep. We did a ton of research to create the entire line. Each product is formulated with its own unique blend of essential oils sourced from around the world.
IN DOG WE TRUST
Shop our entire line: www.prideandgroom.com
