If you have a dog, fur on your clothing, sofa and floor is probably a given. Some dogs shed a little, some shed a lot, and some days it seems to all be coming out at once.

Most of the time, shedding is perfectly normal. Dogs lose old fur to make way for new fur. What matters is whether your dog is shedding more than usual and whether there are any changes to their skin or behaviour.

Why Do Dogs Shed?

Shedding is a normal part of a dog's hair cycle. Old hairs are shed and new ones grow in their place. Some dogs shed all year round, while others shed more at particular times of the year.

Dogs with thick double coats may shed much more during seasonal coat changes. An increase in the amount of fur you find isn't necessarily a concern. What's important is what's normal for your dog.

Why Is My Dog Shedding More Than Normal?

Sometimes it really is just seasonal shedding. You may see more fur on your bed, around the house or coming out when you brush your dog.

If your dog is otherwise well, their skin looks normal and there are no bald patches, the extra shedding may be a normal coat change. However, a sudden or unexplained increase is worth discussing with your vet, particularly if there are other symptoms.

Does Coat Type Matter?

Yes. Not all dogs shed the same amount. Dogs with short coats can shed a lot too, even if it's less obvious than with a long-coated dog. Dogs with thicker coats may shed more at certain times of the year.

It's best to compare your dog's current shedding with their usual pattern, rather than with other dogs.

Can Brushing Help With Shedding?

Regular brushing helps remove loose fur before it ends up all over your house. It's also a good opportunity to check your dog's skin.

Keep sessions short and gentle, and adjust the frequency to your dog's coat and comfort. During periods of heavier shedding, more frequent brushing may help.

Choose a brush or shedding control tools suited to your dog's coat. Avoid pulling at the skin or repeatedly brushing an irritated area.

Does Bathing Help With Dog Shedding?

Bathing can help remove loose fur and dirt from the coat. However, don't bathe your dog more often just because they're shedding.

Use a dog shampoo, rinse it out thoroughly and follow a bathing routine suited to your dog's skin and coat. If their skin looks irritated, ask your vet for advice.

Can Stress Make Dogs Shed More?

Sometimes, yes. You might notice more shedding after a stressful event, such as a vet visit, car ride, loud noise or sudden change at home.

If it settles once they're back to their usual self, it may have been stress-related. Persistent shedding or other changes in behaviour deserve a closer look.

What About Fleas, Ticks or Skin Problems?

If your dog is losing more fur and also scratching, licking or biting their skin, take a closer look.

Parasites, skin irritation, allergies and other health problems can contribute to hair loss. This may look different from normal shedding, with redness, bald patches, scabs or discomfort in a particular area.

If you notice these signs, speak to your vet rather than treating the hair loss as routine shedding.

Can Food Affect Your Dog's Coat?

Your dog's coat can sometimes show changes when something isn't right. You may notice a dull, patchy or uneven coat.

Don't change your dog's food straight away just because you've noticed more shedding. If their coat looks unusually poor or the change comes with other symptoms, speak to your vet about possible causes and whether their diet needs reviewing.

When Is Shedding Not Normal?

Shedding needs closer attention when it changes suddenly or looks different from your dog's usual pattern. Watch out for:

• Bald patches
• Red or sore areas
• Constant scratching, licking or biting
• Scabs or wounds
• Much more hair loss in one area than elsewhere

If your dog also seems uncomfortable, lethargic or unlike their usual self, get them checked by a vet.

How Can You Manage Dog Shedding at Home?

You can't stop a healthy dog from shedding, and you don't need to. Focus on regular, gentle brushing, keeping the coat clean and checking the skin as you groom.

During periods of heavy shedding, adjust your grooming routine to your dog's needs without overbrushing or adding unnecessary baths.

And yes, vacuuming will probably still be part of life with a shedding dog.

When Should You Speak to a Vet?

Speak to your vet if your dog suddenly starts losing much more fur than normal, especially if it's accompanied by itching, redness or bald patches.

You should also seek advice if the excessive shedding comes with changes in behaviour, appetite or weight. You don't need to worry about every bit of fur, but be on the lookout for anything unusual.

So, Why Is Your Dog Shedding So Much?

Your dog may be shedding naturally or going through a seasonal coat change. Regular brushing can help manage the loose fur.

But if the change is sudden, persistent or accompanied by signs of discomfort, don't assume it's just normal shedding. Your vet can help identify the cause.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Shedding

Why is my dog suddenly shedding so much?

Seasonal shedding, stress or a natural coat change may explain it. If the change is unexplained or you also see itching, redness or bald patches, speak to your vet.

Does brushing reduce shedding?

Brushing doesn't stop dogs from shedding, but it removes loose fur before it ends up around your house.

How often should I brush my dog?

It depends on coat type and your dog's comfort. Some dogs need brushing once or twice a week, while others need more frequent grooming. Keep sessions gentle and use a tool suited to their coat.

Can fleas cause more shedding?

Fleas can cause itching and scratching that contribute to hair loss. If you suspect fleas or notice irritated skin, ask your vet about appropriate treatment.

Should I worry about bald patches?

Bald patches aren't typical of normal shedding and should be checked by a vet.