Dog moulting: why dogs shed and how to manage it
First Published: 09/09/2024
Last Updated: 12/09/2024
Dog moulting is a natural process where dogs shed old or damaged hair to make way for new growth. While you can’t stop your dog moulting, you can reduce it with regular brushing.
Brushing removes loose hair before it falls, reduces tangles, and spreads the skin’s natural oils to improve coat health. Tools like slicker brushes and undercoat rakes are useful for breeds with double coats.
What causes dog shedding?
Four main factors influence dog shedding:
- Genetics: Some breeds are genetically prone to shed more than others. For example, double-coated breeds, which have both a soft undercoat and a protective outer coat, are heavy shedders, while Poodles shed much less. Double-coated breeds include:
- Akita
- Alaskan Malamute
- Border Collie
- Chow Chow
- Labrador Retriever
- Newfoundland
- Old English Sheepdog
- Pomeranian
- Siberian Husky
- Springer Spaniel
- Welsh Corgi
- Hormonal imbalances: Female dogs may shed more due to hormonal changes during pregnancy or their heat cycle.
- Health and wellbeing: Stress and poor diet can also trigger excessive shedding. A balanced diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids helps keep your dog's coat healthy.
- Disease: If your dog has bald patches or red, crusty, flaky, or itchy skin, they may have an underlying health condition. Skin disease is common in dogs, but other conditions, such as Cushing's disease and hypothyroidism, can also affect the hair coat.
Read more: How to groom your dog
When is dog moulting season?
Moulting typically happens in spring and autumn, usually in response to changes in light and temperature. Dogs shed their summer coat in autumn to prepare for their thicker winter coat. When the days get longer in spring, your dog's body knows it's time to swap their thick winter coat for a lighter summer one. This can lead to noticeable shedding, particularly in double-coated breeds.
Labradors tend to shed most in spring and autumn
How long do pets moult for?
Moulting can last a few weeks or up to a couple of months, depending on the breed and environment. Pet dogs who live indoors may shed year-round due to artificial light and controlled temperatures, which can disrupt their natural shedding cycles.
It's also helpful to know that your dog's hair grows in three main phases:
- Anagen phase — this is the active growth phase, where your dog's hair grows continuously.
- Catagen phase — a short resting period, where hair growth pauses.
- Telogen phase — the final phase where the old hair falls out, making way for new hair to grow.
How to stop dog shedding home remedy
Regular brushing is the easiest way to manage shedding at home. Using the correct brush for your dog's coat type is vital — slicker brushes are good for long-haired dogs, while bristle brushes work well for short coats. A balanced diet will help maintain optimal skin health and coat condition. Most dogs don't need regular baths, but using a dog-friendly shampoo is essential when they do need a good wash. Avoid using human shampoo, as it can irritate your dog's skin.
Read more: What causes allergies in dogs?
When should I be concerned about my dog's moulting?
Shedding is normal, but if you spot bald patches or notice your dog losing more hair than usual, it could be a sign of something more serious. Keep an eye out for thinning coats, itching, redness, or irritated skin. These symptoms might point to issues like hormonal imbalances, allergies, stress, or nutritional deficiencies. Fleas and other parasites can also cause excessive scratching and shedding. Members of the Pet Health Club can chat to their vet about prevention at their six-monthly pet checks.
Are there any non-shedding dog breeds?
While no dog is completely non-shedding, certain breeds shed less than others. Poodles, Cairn Terriers, Bichon Frises, Schnauzers, and Maltese are considered low-shedding dogs. These breeds have coats more like human hair and produce less dander, making them a popular choice for people with allergies.
What are the six coat types in dogs?
| Coat Type | Description | Examples | Grooming Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smooth coats | Short hair that lies close to the body. Minimal grooming but sheds light hairs regularly. | Doberman | Regular grooming to remove loose hair. |
| Double coats | Soft undercoat with a longer topcoat. Shed heavily, especially in moulting seasons. | Border Collie, Labrador Retrievers, Springer Spaniels | Brush regularly, especially during moulting. Avoid clipping to prevent post-clipping alopecia. |
| Wire coats | Harsh outer coat and soft undercoat. Requires regular grooming to prevent matting. | Terrier breeds | Hand-stripping twice a year to remove dead hair. Groom regularly to avoid tangles. |
| Wool/scissored coats | Curly, fluffy coats that shed very little but mat easily. Requires regular trimming or clipping to maintain shape and prevent overgrowth. | Poodle, Bichon Frise | Daily brushing to prevent matting. Regular professional grooming for trimming and shaping. |
| Long coats | Long hair that is prone to tangling and matting. Requires the most frequent grooming. | Cocker Spaniels, Shih Tzu, Yorkshire Terrier | Frequent brushing and washing to keep coat tangle-free. |
| Combination coats | Mix of coat types, often found in designer breeds. May shed less but still needs regular grooming to prevent matting. | Labradoodle, Cockapoo | Groom regularly according to the specific mix of coat traits inherited. |
Read more: Dog hygiene and grooming advice
Any tips for cleaning up after a moulting pet?
Dealing with shedding at home requires regular cleaning. Vacuum floors frequently to stay on top of loose fur. Tools like lint rollers, rubber gloves, and sticky tape are great for removing hair from furniture and clothes. For fabrics, dampening rubber gloves or using a dry sponge can be particularly effective at picking up fur. To protect your furniture, use washable throws or blankets, which are easier to clean.
Need advice on dog shedding?
For expert advice on shedding and grooming your dog, get in touch with your vet.
Find your nearest vet using our find a vet page, or speak to a vet online using our video vets service.