Dog Shedding: What Is Normal, How to Manage It and When It Signals a Problem
Shedding is a normal part of how a dog's coat renews itself. The key is knowing what is normal for your dog's coat and what looks like a skin or health problem.
Shedding is normal for almost all dogs. Many dogs shed a little all year, and double-coated breeds often have heavy seasonal sheds, typically in spring and fall, when they lose their undercoat. Normal shedding is gradual, leaves the coat looking healthy and does not cause bald patches, redness or itching. If you see bald spots, sores, scabs, constant scratching or a dull, brittle coat, book a visit with your veterinarian.
Shedding cannot be stopped, but regular brushing, good nutrition and parasite control keep it manageable and help you spot problems early.
Why dogs shed
Hair grows in cycles. Each hair grows, rests and eventually falls out to make room for a new one. How much a dog sheds depends on its coat type, breed, health and environment. Seasonal changes in daylight and temperature trigger many dogs to shed more at certain times of year. Indoor dogs exposed to artificial light and heating may shed more evenly through the year.
Shedding can also increase temporarily after a heat cycle or giving birth, and during stressful events such as a vet visit or moving house.
Shedding by coat type
| Coat type | Examples | Typical shedding | Grooming focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double coat | Husky, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Corgi | Moderate year-round, heavy seasonal “blowing” of the undercoat | Undercoat rake or slicker brush several times a week, daily during heavy sheds |
| Short single coat | Beagle, Boxer, Labrador (short but dense) | Steady, often noticeable | Rubber curry brush or bristle brush weekly |
| Long single coat | Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese | Lower visible shedding, but hair tangles | Daily brushing to prevent mats |
| Curly or continuously growing | Poodle, Bichon Frise | Low visible shedding; loose hair is trapped in the coat | Regular brushing and professional clipping |
| Wiry | Schnauzer, many terriers | Low to moderate | Brushing plus hand-stripping or clipping |
So-called low-shedding breeds still lose hair; it is simply caught in the coat instead of on the floor. They need more grooming, not less.
How to manage normal shedding
- Brush regularly. Brushing removes loose hair before it lands on your furniture and spreads natural skin oils. Match the tool to the coat: undercoat rakes for double coats, rubber curry brushes for short coats, slicker brushes and combs for long coats.
- Brush more during seasonal sheds. Short daily sessions work better than one long, stressful one.
- Bathe occasionally with a dog shampoo and dry thoroughly. A bath can loosen dead undercoat, but bathing too often dries the skin. See how often to bathe a dog.
- Feed a complete and balanced diet. A food that meets AAFCO nutrient standards for your dog’s life stage supports skin and coat health. Ask your vet before adding supplements.
- Keep up with parasite prevention. Fleas and mites can cause itching and hair loss. Our flea and tick prevention guide covers the basics.
- Make sure fresh water is always available.
- Do not shave double-coated dogs to reduce shedding unless your vet advises it for a medical reason. The undercoat helps insulate against heat and cold, and some coats grow back unevenly.
Shedding and allergies
Dog allergens come mainly from skin flakes, saliva and urine, not just hair, so no breed is completely allergy-free. Low-shedding coats may leave less hair around the house, which some allergic people find easier, but reactions vary from person to person. If someone in your home has allergies, spend time with the specific dog before adopting, keep the dog out of the bedroom, wash bedding often and ask a doctor for advice. Our guide to choosing a first dog covers other factors to weigh.
Keeping hair under control at home
- Groom outdoors or on an easy-to-clean floor.
- Brush outdoors where possible; the ASPCA’s dog grooming tips cover tools and technique.
- Use washable throws on furniture and the dog’s bed, and wash them often.
- Vacuum regularly with a vacuum suited to pet hair.
- Keep a lint roller or rubber glove handy for clothes and upholstery.
When shedding may signal a problem
Abnormal hair loss can have many causes, including parasites, allergies, skin infections, hormonal conditions such as hypothyroidism, stress and some medications. Only a vet can work out the cause, sometimes with skin scrapings, blood tests or other diagnostics. Do not try to treat skin problems with home remedies.
Contact your veterinarian if you notice:
- bald patches or thinning in specific areas;
- red, inflamed, scabby or flaky skin;
- frequent scratching, licking, chewing or rubbing;
- a dull, dry or brittle coat, or heavy dandruff;
- shedding far heavier than your dog’s usual pattern, out of season;
- bad odor from the skin or ears;
- hair loss along with other changes, such as weight gain or loss, increased thirst, lethargy or a change in appetite.
Sudden widespread hair loss, open sores, or a dog that seems unwell overall should be seen promptly.
Bottom line
Some shedding all year, and heavier sheds in spring and fall for double-coated dogs, is normal. Brush to match the coat, bathe occasionally, feed a complete and balanced diet and keep up with parasite control. Bald patches, itchy or inflamed skin, or a poor-quality coat are reasons to see your vet.
FAQ
Why is my dog shedding so much right now?
Seasonal changes, a recent heat cycle, stress or a change in diet can all increase shedding. If shedding comes with itching, bald spots or other signs of illness, see your vet.
Can food reduce shedding?
A complete and balanced diet supports a healthy coat, but no food stops normal shedding. Ask your vet before adding supplements.
Should I shave my dog in summer?
Shaving is generally not recommended for double-coated dogs because the coat helps regulate temperature and protect the skin. Regular brushing to remove dead undercoat is a better approach.
Are there dogs that do not shed?
All dogs lose some hair. Low-shedding breeds trap loose hair in the coat, so they need frequent brushing and professional grooming.