Spring is a beautiful time in New Haven, with longer days, blooming flowers, and warmer weather. But for dog owners, it also means one thing—shedding season is in full swing. If you find yourself constantly sweeping up fur, battling tumbleweeds of hair in the corners of your home, or dealing with a dog that seems to be shedding more than ever, you're not alone. Managing your dog's spring coat can feel like an endless battle, but with the right approach, you can keep your home (and your pup) looking and feeling great.
Why do dogs shed more in the spring?
Shedding is a natural process for dogs, especially as the seasons change. In the winter, dogs develop a thicker coat to stay warm. When spring arrives, they start to shed that extra fur to adjust to rising temperatures. This process happens more intensely in breeds with double coats, such as Labrador Retrievers, Huskies, and German Shepherds, but even short-haired dogs will shed to some extent.
While shedding is normal, it can feel overwhelming—especially if you have allergies, dark furniture, or just don’t have time to vacuum multiple times a day. The good news? There are simple steps you can take to manage shedding season and keep your home (and your sanity) intact.
Brushing is your first line of defense
Regular brushing is the most effective way to manage shedding. Not only does it help remove loose fur before it lands on your furniture, but it also keeps your dog’s coat healthy by distributing natural oils.
Here’s how to make brushing a habit that works:
- Choose the right brush: A slicker brush is great for short-haired dogs, while an undercoat rake or deshedding tool is best for double-coated breeds.
- Brush daily (or as often as possible): During peak shedding season, brushing your dog at least a few times a week can make a huge difference.
- Do it outside if possible: This keeps fur from floating around your home and makes cleanup easier.
If brushing feels like a chore, try making it part of your daily routine—maybe while watching TV or enjoying your morning coffee. Some dogs even enjoy it, turning it into a bonding experience.
Bathe your dog, but not too often
A good bath can help loosen dead hair and wash away excess fur before it spreads through your house. However, overbathing can strip natural oils from your dog’s coat, leading to dryness and more shedding.
Tips for effective bathing during shedding season:
- Use a deshedding shampoo: These shampoos help loosen and remove dead fur while keeping your dog’s skin healthy.
- Brush before and after the bath: Brushing before helps remove loose fur, and brushing after helps get rid of any hair loosened during the bath.
- Keep baths to once a month (unless needed): Too many baths can dry out your dog’s skin, which can actually increase shedding.
If your dog isn’t a fan of bath time, consider using pet wipes or a damp cloth between baths to keep their coat clean.
Control shedding from the inside out
What your dog eats plays a big role in the health of their skin and coat. A poor diet can lead to excessive shedding, while the right nutrients can keep their coat shiny and reduce loose hair.
Look for omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish oil or flaxseed, these help keep your dog’s coat strong and reduce dryness.
Choose high-quality dog food: Protein is essential for a healthy coat, so make sure your dog’s food has real meat as the first ingredient.
Keep them hydrated: Dehydrated skin leads to more shedding, so always provide fresh water.
If your dog seems to be shedding excessively despite proper grooming and diet, it may be worth checking with a vet to rule out any allergies or skin conditions.
Keeping your home fur-free (as much as possible)
Even with the best grooming routine, some fur will still make its way into your home. The key is to stay ahead of it before it piles up.
- Use a pet-friendly vacuum: Investing in a vacuum designed for pet hair can save you time and frustration.
- Launder pet bedding and blankets weekly: This keeps fur from building up and spreading around your home.
- Use a lint roller or damp rubber glove on furniture: A simple rubber glove can work wonders at picking up loose fur.
If your dog loves lounging on the couch, consider using washable covers that you can toss in the laundry when things get hairy—literally.
When shedding is a sign of something more
While seasonal shedding is normal, excessive hair loss can be a sign of an underlying issue. If you notice bald patches, irritated skin, or an increase in shedding beyond the usual seasonal change, it’s worth a visit to the vet. Common causes include:
- Allergies (to food, pollen, or fleas)
- Skin infections
- Hormonal imbalances
- Stress or anxiety
Catching these issues early can prevent discomfort for your dog and keep their coat healthy year-round.
Messes of another variety
At DoodyCalls of Western CT, we understand that pet ownership comes with its fair share of messes. While we can’t stop the endless shedding, we can help keep your yard clean and waste-free. Our professional pet waste removal services take the hassle out of cleaning up after your dog, so you can spend less time worrying about the mess and more time enjoying the season with your furry friend.
Spring is a time for fresh starts—let us help make your yard one less thing to stress about. Contact us today to schedule a service and enjoy a cleaner, healthier outdoor space for both you and your pup!
Enjoy spring with a happy, healthy pup
Shedding season in New Haven doesn’t have to be a struggle. With a consistent grooming routine, a healthy diet, and a little extra cleaning, you can keep your dog comfortable and your home fur-free. And if all else fails—embrace the dog hair. After all, it’s just a small price to pay for the unconditional love of a furry friend.