How to Reduce Dog Shedding: 7 Tips

Shedding is a normal part of having a dog, but excessive fur can be frustrating. Because of this, many pet parents wonder how they can reduce dog shedding. By understanding why your dog sheds and taking steps like providing proper nutrition, regular grooming, and parasite prevention, you can help keep shedding under control and maintain a healthy, shiny coat.

The pet experts at Lakeland Animal Clinic in Lakeland, FL are here to answer why dogs shed so much and tips on how to reduce shedding.

Why Is My Dog Shedding So Much?

Shedding is a natural part of a dog’s life, but sometimes it can become excessive or irregular. There are several reasons your dog may be shedding more than usual.

Natural Shedding

Some dog breeds shed more than others. Shedding allows dogs to remove unneeded or damaged hair from their undercoat. Seasonal changes also play a role: many dogs grow thicker coats in winter for warmth, then shed in the spring to regulate body temperature. Before bringing a dog home, research the breed to understand how much shedding to expect.

Poor Nutrition

A lack of proper nutrients can lead to excessive shedding. Make sure your dog’s food contains enough protein, vitamins, and minerals to support a healthy coat. Dehydration can also contribute—dogs need fresh, clean water at all times. Dry, itchy skin often leads to more fur loss.

Parasites

External parasites such as fleas, ticks, mites, and lice can irritate your dog’s skin, causing scratching, biting, and fur loss. Internal parasites may also contribute to hair loss due to malnutrition. Fungal infections like ringworm can cause circular patches of hair loss. Most parasite issues can be treated with antifungal shampoos, topical creams, or veterinary medications.

Allergies

Food, medication, or environmental allergens—like pollen, mold, and dust mites—can trigger excessive shedding. Allergies cause itching and chewing at the skin, which leads to hair loss. These can often be managed through dietary changes or medications recommended by your vet.

Illness

Certain diseases may also cause dogs to shed more than normal. While shedding doesn’t necessarily indicate illness, it can be a symptom of kidney or liver disease, immune disorders, or cancer. If your dog’s shedding is sudden, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms, a veterinary evaluation is recommended.

7 Tips to Reduce Your Dog’s Shedding

While shedding is natural, there are several steps you can take to keep it under control. From proper nutrition to regular grooming, these tips will help maintain a healthy coat and reduce excess fur around your home.

1) Improve Your Dog’s Diet

A healthy coat starts with proper nutrition. Ways to support your dog’s fur include:

• Feed high-quality dog food with sufficient protein, minerals, and healthy fats

• Add omega-3 supplements for skin and coat health

• Limit human food to less than 10% of daily intake

• Ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times

Proper nutrition prevents dry skin and excessive shedding.

2) Brush Your Dog Regularly

Brushing helps remove loose hair and stimulates the skin. Recommendations:

• Short-haired dogs: use a natural bristle brush or grooming glove

• Long-haired or thick-coated dogs: use a slicker brush or shedding tool to reach the undercoat

• Brush in the direction of hair growth, then reverse to remove loose fur

• Brush multiple times per week for dogs with heavy shedding

3) Bathe Your Dog With Shedding Shampoo

Bathing reduces loose fur and keeps skin healthy:

• Use a shedding-friendly or moisturizing shampoo

• Regular baths remove dead hair before it spreads in your home

• Helps prevent itching that can lead to hair loss

Follow your veterinarian’s advice for bathing frequency.

4) Prevent Parasites

Fleas, ticks, and mites can irritate the skin and increase shedding:

• Use monthly flea and tick preventatives

• Keep up with regular deworming

• Treat infestations promptly with vet-recommended products

Consult your vet if you’re unsure which parasites may be affecting your dog.

5) Manage Allergies

Allergies can cause itching, irritation, and fur loss:

• Identify food allergens and switch to high-quality or limited-ingredient diets

• Reduce environmental triggers such as pollen, mold, and dust mites

• Administer medications prescribed by your veterinarian

6) Watch for Signs of Illness

Excessive shedding can sometimes indicate underlying health issues:

• Kidney or liver disease

• Immune disorders

• Skin infections or fungal conditions

• Cancer

If shedding seems abnormal, consult your veterinarian promptly.

7) Maintain Consistent Grooming and Hydration

Daily care keeps your dog’s coat in top condition:

• Brush and bathe regularly

• Keep your dog hydrated

• Maintain a balanced diet

• Provide parasite control and allergy management

A consistent routine helps reduce excess shedding and keeps fur healthy.

Contact Lakeland Animal Clinic

Managing shedding is easier with guidance from professionals. If your dog is shedding excessively or showing signs of skin irritation, call Lakeland Animal Clinic in Lakeland, FL at (863) 688-3338 or book your pet’s appointment online. Our team is here to help your dog stay healthy and comfortable.