Introduction
Welcoming a furry friend into your home brings joy, companionship, and sometimes, a fair amount of pet hair. While we adore our pets, managing the constant shedding can be a challenge. However, with the right cleaning strategies, you can maintain a [somewhat] pet hair free home and living space and create a harmonious environment for both you and your four-legged companion. In this blog post, we will explore the five best cleaning tips to keep your home free from pet hair and pet dander.
Why Do Dogs Shed?
Dogs shed as a natural part of their life cycle, and the amount of shedding can vary significantly between breeds and individual dogs. Shedding is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and health factors. Here are some key reasons why dogs shed:
Breed and Genetics:
Double-Coated Breeds: Many dog breeds have a double coat, consisting of a dense, soft undercoat and a longer, coarser outer coat. Breeds like Huskies, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds are examples. These double coats are designed to provide insulation in both cold and warm weather, but they shed heavily, especially during seasonal changes.
Single-Coated Breeds: Some breeds have a single coat, which sheds less than double-coated breeds. Some do not even shed at all. Examples include Poodles, Bichon Frises, and Shih Tzus. However, it is important to note that even single-coated breeds will shed to some extent.
Seasonal Changes:
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Many dogs shed more during seasonal changes, particularly in the spring and fall. This is often referred to as "blowing coat." As the weather changes, dogs shed their old fur to make way for a new, more appropriate coat for the upcoming season.
Temperature Regulation:
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Dogs use their coats to regulate body temperature. In warmer months, they shed to reduce insulation and stay cooler. Conversely, in colder months, they grow a thicker coat to retain heat.
Hormonal Changes:
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Hormonal changes, such as those related to a dog's reproductive cycle or spaying/neutering, can influence shedding. Female dogs may shed more during estrus (heat), while intact males may shed more than neutered ones.
Health and Diet:
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The overall health of a dog, including their diet, plays a role in shedding. A balanced and nutritious diet contributes to healthy skin and coat, reducing excessive shedding. Poor nutrition or underlying health issues can lead to increased shedding.
Age:
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Puppies typically shed their puppy coat as they mature into adulthood. Senior dogs may also experience changes in their coat, and aging can sometimes result in increased shedding.
Environmental Factors:
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Environmental factors such as sunlight exposure, temperature, and humidity can influence shedding. Dogs exposed to more natural light may experience more consistent shedding patterns.
What Is Pet Dander?
Most often, pet allergy is triggered by exposure to the dead flakes of skin (dander) a pet sheds. Pet dander comes from skin cells that are shed by animals with fur or feathers – cats, dogs, guinea pigs, rabbits, birds, etc. Dander can trigger an allergy. Animals without fur, like reptiles, amphibians and fish, do not shed dander so they have less of a chance of triggering an allergic reaction.
Also Read - The Best Condolence Gifts for Pet Loss
Here Are 5 Useful Cleaning Tips for Keeping Your Home Pet Hair-Free
1. Invest in High-Quality Pet Grooming Tools:
The first line of defense against pet hair invasion is a well-groomed pet. Regular brushing not only helps reduce shedding but also keeps your pet's coat healthy and shiny. Invest in high-quality grooming tools such as slicker brushes, shedding blades, or deshedding gloves, depending on your pet's breed and coat type. Rubber gloves can even help. Brush your furry friend at least two to three times a week to remove loose fur before it has a chance to settle on your furniture and floors.
Having the right shampoo is also key! THE SHEDDER Shampoo by PRIDE+GROOM is formulated specifically for dogs with fur instead of hair, and is super moisturizing for the coat and the skin beneath. This will result in you having to pick up pet hair and excess hair even less. The main ingredients in this formula include coconut oil, avocado oil, vitamin E, flax seed oil, jojoba seed oil, and aloe. All our products are all natural + free of parabens, toxins, dyes, silicones, sulfates and gluten.
THE SHEDDER shampoo is formulated specifically for your beloved, shedding dog with all-natural, nontoxic ingredients and a fresh signature scent.
2. Choose Pet-Friendly Fabrics and Surfaces:
When it comes to pet-friendly home decor, selecting the right fabrics and surfaces can make a significant difference in minimizing cat or dog hair buildup. Opt for furniture and bedding made from materials like microfiber or leather, as they are less prone to trapping hair, resulting in pet hair buildup. Additionally, choose rugs with low pile or hardwood/tile flooring, as they are easier to clean and less likely to cling to pet hair. Making thoughtful choices in your home's furnishings can save you time and effort in the long run.
3. Regular Vacuuming and Sweeping:
Regular vacuuming and sweeping are essential components of any pet owner's cleaning routine when removing pet hair and pet fur. Invest in a vacuum cleaner specifically designed for pet hair removal, equipped with powerful suction and specialized attachments to capture and remove pet hair from various surfaces. Pay special attention to areas where your pet spends the most time, such as their favorite lounging spots and sleeping areas. Additionally, use a quality broom or dry mop to tackle hard floors, ensuring a thorough removal of pet hair.
An air purifier with the right air filters can help to remove pet hair and pet dander from the air. Depending on the severity of the person's allergies, an air purifier can sometimes be enough to let them be in the same room with the family pet. It may even be enough for them to be able to stay in the house for a weekend.
4. Employ the Magic of Lint Rollers and Tape:
For quick and effective removal of pet hair from clothing, upholstery, and even curtains, a lint brush, roller and tape are your secret weapons. Keep a lint roller or a roll of packing tape handy in various rooms, especially those where your pet loves to cuddle up. A simple swipe across surfaces can pick up loose pet hairs instantly. This trick is not only convenient but also a lifesaver when you have unexpected guests arriving, and you want your home to look pristine and remove pet hair.
5. Wash Pet Bedding and Linens Regularly:
Pet bedding and linens are hotspots for accumulating pet hair and dander. To keep these areas under control, establish a routine of washing your pet's bedding, blankets, and any other washable items regularly. Use pet-safe detergents, and be sure to follow care instructions to maintain the integrity of the fabrics. By keeping your pet's living quarters clean, you'll reduce the overall amount of loose hair circulating in your home.
Conclusion:
Living with pets doesn't mean resigning yourself to a constant battle against pet hair. We know it's a constant struggle of the pet parent! While shedding is a normal and healthy process for most dogs, excessive or sudden shedding can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health issue. If you notice a significant change in your own dog or cat's shedding patterns, it's advisable to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any health concerns. Regular grooming and proper care, including a balanced diet, can help manage shedding and keep your dog's coat healthy.
By implementing these five cleaning tips, you can enjoy a pet-friendly home that remains comfortable, clean, and hair-free. Regular grooming, thoughtful fabric choices, consistent vacuuming, rollers, and diligent laundering practices will help you strike the right balance, allowing you to revel in the joys of pet ownership without compromising on a tidy living space. We hope these pet hair solutions help you and your furry friends!
Also Read - Understanding Why Dogs Vomit Bile: Causes and Solutions
About PRIDE+GROOM Shampoos:
Every PRIDE+GROOM formula contains its own unique blend of all-natural essential oils, unique signature scents, and sustainable ingredients chosen for dogs' specific coat and skin types. These coat-specific, oil-rich formulas of unmatched consistency provide healing, hydrating, cleansing, nourishing and beautifying benefits. They also offer dogs the level of luxury coat and skin care that, up until now, only we ourselves could enjoy.
