Putting a Stop to Your Dog’s Excess Shedding

Let’s face it — if you own a dog, some shedding is a part of life. However, it’s possible for your dog’s shedding to get out of hand. If you think your pooch’s shedding is becoming abnormal, use these tips from an Omaha, NE vet to address the problem.

Grooming

Brushing your dog every day will do wonders for cutting down on the amount Fido sheds. Not only does brushing trap loose and dead fur in the brush itself, it makes your dog’s coat healthier by spreading essential skin oils through the fur to moisturize it naturally. Ask your vet about what type of bristle type will work best on your dog’s particular coat of fur.

Diet Choice

Did you know that your dog’s diet has a lot to do with his coat quality, as well as the amount he sheds? If your canine companion isn’t receiving the right balance of nutrients through the diet, the skin will dry out and shedding may increase. On the other hand, a well-balanced and nutritionally complete diet will keep the skin and fur in peak condition, helping your dog to look and feel their absolute best!

Dietary Supplements

For some dogs, a good diet alone isn’t quite enough. Dietary supplements—omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil, coconut oil, and many others—may work to help keep Fido’s skin and fur in tip-top shape. Check with your veterinarian to see if your dog might benefit from a supplement.

Stress Level

If your dog is under a lot of stress, they may shed excessively as a natural response. You’ll often see an increase in shedding when your dog visits the vet’s office or suffers through a severe thunderstorm. It’s possible for your dog to experience long-term stress, perhaps due to a change in the household like a new family member or another pet, resulting in increased shedding. Ask your vet about good ways to combat stress levels so that your dog feels better.

See Your Vet

If you still can’t seem to get your dog’s increased shedding under control, set up an appointment to have your pooch examined by your veterinarian. It’s possible that medical issues like parasitic infestation, skin infection, disease, and more could be the root cause.

For more information on your dog’s grooming regimen or to make an appointment at the office, contact your Omaha, NE veterinary clinic today. We’re always here to help!