Grooming Tips for When Your Dog is Shedding
As spring approaches, dogs shed their winter coats by scattering them in the wind—or all over the house. We're talking about dog fur... in piles and heaps that seem to have a life of their own. But there are things we can do to make shedding season easier, for both us and our dogs.
Bada
Inaugurate spring with a nurturing bath
Welcome spring with a bath.horoughly shampoo your dog's fur, then blow-dry or air-dry it before brushing out the winter coat. It helps the strands to release, and much sheds off in the shower. A conditioner can make a dry coat more easily brushable.
Always use dog-friendly products
Always use shampoo and conditioner meant for dogs, as dogs have a different pH level in their skin than we do.
Deep cleaning for dense fur
Does your dog have dense fur? Try filling a container with lukewarm water to mix the shampoo in. Then drizzle the mixture over the dog's fur, making it reach deeper.
Brush only when the coat is dry
Ensure your dog's fur is completely dry before you start brushing, or you risk breaking the hair strands.
Calm bath time with the help of a slick mat
Attach a lick mat with some soft cheese to the shower wall. This gives your dog something to focus on while you circle your fingertips from head to paw.
Brushes
Training your dog to enjoy brushing
In Petli's training archive (in the app), you'll find coat care that show you how to train your dog to enjoy fur brushing. Read our few tips on how to effectively manage shedding: 8 Tips: how to speed up your dog's shedding.
Effective removal of undercoat
Does your dog have stubborn undercoat? Invest in a good undercoat rake. Choose one that gently removes loose undercoat without damaging the topcoat. A quality rake is worth the money, as the difference is enormous. Stop raking when the undercoat is released. If you're too eager and continue, you risk scratching your dog's skin.
Regular and gentle brushing
Brush regularly, once a week usually enough. Avoid harsh brush strokes. Let the rake run through the fur without causing any discomfort.
Stop brushing at the right time
Quit brushing when the rake no longer pulls out any fur. If we persist ambitiously, the risk of damaging the skin or pulling out attached fur increases. Shorter grooming sessions more often are better.
Handle stubborn ropes with care
Encounter tangles or fur mats that won't give way? Instead of tugging, vertically cut into them and then brush gently. If that doesn't help, it might be wise to cut the whole mat out.
Effective repellent for short-haired dogs
For a short-haired dog with minimal undercoat, try a grooming stone (available among horse accessories). Use short, swift strokes, and the stone will gently remove loose hair.
Make the birds happy with recycled fur
Feel free to gather the fur into a ball and stick it to a tree; excellent nesting material for birds busy decorating their nests this time of year.
Diet affects
Support your coat with extra vitamin B
B-vitamins are good for hair and skin. An extra dose might be needed during shedding season. Boost with additional supplements or feed B-vitamin-rich food (a few extra bananas if your dog fancies them).
Give your dog a shiny coat with oil
Adding oil to the diet also facilitates grooming. Coat shine is at its best when it comes from the inside out, rather than being sprayed on. A shiny coat is easier to detangle and won't mat like a dry and flaky fur. Salmon oil or canola oil is recommended.
Improve your coat with the right feed
Does your dog have prolonged shedding or a tangled and dull coat? Try a new diet. A raw, fresh diet works wonders for coat quality and shedding too.
Written by: Caroline Alupo
Caroline Alupo is Petli's co-founder. She has a master's degree in ethology and is also a trained dog trainer and dog psychologist. She has 19 years of experience as a professional dog trainer. Read more about Caroline here.
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