Seasonal Shedding

For many dogs, shedding is just a spring and summer irritation as your dog sheds the extra protection of a wooly winter coat. Different breeds shed different amounts, so if you're sensitive to hair, consider this when choosing a dog. Look for breeds that don't shed as much.

You also may notice a difference between indoor and outdoor dogs. If your dog spends most of his time indoors, he may shed year-round since his body won't register the dramatic changes in temperature that trigger growth and shedding.

What You Can Do

You can't keep your dog from shedding, but you can help keep it under control by removing hair before it has a chance to drop everywhere. The solution is consistent grooming.

• Make brushing your dog a daily ritual, particularly if you have a breed with longer hair or one that naturally sheds. Brushing can be great for bonding and giving puppy the attention he craves.
• Slicker or pin brushes penetrate to the undercoat and remove most of the shedding hair.
• If you're in shedding season, you may also take your dog outside or into an easily vacuumed room and use a shedding blade or undercoat rake to remove more. You may be surprised how much flies away.
• A groomer will be able to tell you which tools to buy and how to use them correctly.

Excessive shedding

If your dog is shedding excessively (more than in the past, or if bald spots start to appear), talk to your veterinarian. This may be coat loss related to a health condition that may need treatment.