Our dogs bring us many wonderful things, including unconditional love, loyalty, and companionship. They can also occasionally bring a lot of fur! If you’re starting to think that your dog’s shedding is getting out of hand, it’s time to act. Here, learn what to do from your Marietta, GA vet.
Visit Your Veterinarian
First things first—make an appointment to see your veterinarian. Various medical maladies, from infection to parasitic infestation to disease, could be to blame for your dog’s increased shedding. If a problem is discovered, it can be treated. Even if nothing is found, your vet can advise you how to combat the problem moving forward.
Modify the Diet
Many times, the root cause of a dog’s shedding problem is their diet. If your pooch isn’t receiving the right amounts of vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and other nutrients through his food, the coat quality will suffer as a result and shedding can increase. Feed your dog a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for his age, breed, and weight. If you’d like a recommendation, contact your vet’s office.
Brush Your Dog
One of the simplest ways to combat shedding is with brushing. You’ll be amazed at what daily brushing sessions can do! Brushing traps loose and dead fur in the brush itself, preventing it from winding up on your carpets and furniture. Plus, brushing helps to spread essential skin oils through the coat, moisturizing it naturally and cutting down on shedding. Head to your local pet supply store to get a brush made specifically for dogs.
Bathe Your Dog
The occasional bath can also help to remove loose fur and keep your dog’s coat clean and fresh. Always use a canine-formulated shampoo, as shampoos made for humans may be too strong for your dog’s skin. Also take care not to bathe too frequently; this can actually backfire and dry out the skin, resulting in more shedding instead of less.
Consider Space Restrictions
Some dogs simply shed more than others, and there’s not a whole lot that can be done about it. In these cases, space restrictions may help. By training your dog to stay on only one floor of your home, or only getting up on one piece of furniture, you’re minimizing the area you have to keep clean!
Would you like more advice on countering your dog’s shedding? Contact your Marietta, GA veterinarian’s office for professional help.
