Shedding

Shedding is just a part of owning a dog. Light is the biggest contributor to the shedding cycle. Artificial light in a house can cause indoor dogs to shed more than outdoor dogs. Other factors that can affect shedding are illness, disease, hormonal changes, pregnancy, skin problems, bacterial infections and stress. Double-coated dogs shed at least once a year. Short-coated dogs shed in a mosaic pattern and can shed year-round. When a dog is in a shedding cycle, it is good to bathe, dry and brush the dog to remove the dead coat. This helps the skin breathe. Removing the dead coat will help uncover hidden matting, hot spots and many other skin problems. See your veterinarian if you see excessive shedding, bald spots or symmetric hair loss.