Signs Your German Shepherd Is Sheddingexcessively
Theres a time your mutt sheds heavily thanusual.
And thats a sign theres an underlying factor that istriggering the heavy shedding. And you should act fast.
Here are signals you should take your fur to see avet immediately:
- Several wounds on the skin
- Weird discharge on the skin
- Excessive scratching
Lets quickly discuss the factors that can cause theabove symptoms.
like fleas, ticks, mites, and ringworms make German Shepherds lose hair.Ideally, you should look around your furs chest, stomach and ears, and if younotice any parasite or inflammation, its time you take action. Severeinfestations require deep treatment. On the other hand, most mild infections goaway on their own.
dog can have food and environmental allergies that cause hair loss. Some of theenvironmental allergies include dust mites and pollen grains, while foodallergies can be beef, corn or soy. Knowing what your German Shepherd isallergic to is a matter of studying its reactions. For instance, if it startsscratching itself after eating corns, then its allergic to it.
Hormonal imbalance: FemaleGerman Shepherds may produce excessive or low amounts of estrogen that triggersshedding. For male German Shepherds, they can produce excessive amounts ofestrogen or testosterone that causes hair loss. You can read more about
Treat Your Dog With Human Food Occasionally
Bananas, cucumbers, sliced apples , and lean meats like chicken breast are all moisture-rich foods that help your German Shepherd keep hydrated.
If that wasnt good enough, they also contain lots of healthy nutrients that help your German Shepherds coat stay shiny and smooth and reduce shedding.
However, only 5-10% of your German Shepherds daily food intake should be treats of any kind the rest should be the before-mentioned meat-rich dog food.
Is There A Permanent German Shepherd Shedding Solution
While theres no permanent German Shepherd shedding solution there are tips to decrease hair fall.
No, unfortunately, theres not a permanent shedding solution for your German Shepherd since they lose hair every day, all year round. However, many of the shedding solutions listed give you the steps you need to understand how to stop German Shepherd hair fall in huge amounts.
Weather, season, your dogs health, and even your home environment play a significant role in how much your dog sheds, but these tips provide a German Shepherd shedding solution that decreases hair loss.
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When Does A German Shepherd Shed Is There A Shedding Season
German Shepherds shed a little bit all the time, but they will shed their coat more one to four times per year, typically when the seasons change.
The biggest shed of the year will usually occur as spring turns into summer as body temperature rises, but any season changes can cause your Shepherd to blow their undercoat.
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Factors On Which Shedding Of A German Shepherd Depends
Diet: Diet plays an important role in deciding the quality of a dogs coat. It should be nutritious enough to fulfill the daily nutritional requirement of your GSD. If your dog is not getting enough nutrition through its diet then it will make roots of the hairs weak resulting in more shedding.
Age: Age is also an important factor that decides the amount of shedding of dogs. As the age of the dog increases and he gets older then his hair starts to get thinner and weaker thats why old dogs tend to shed higher than adults.
Health Status: Increased shedding is a symptom of many diseases also some health issues make the dog shed more. For example dogs with skin diseases and thyroid problems shed abnormally.
Season: All dogs shed heavily during a particular season called shedding season. Like most other dog breeds German shepherds also shed more in the spring and fall seasons.
Living condition: it is obvious that a German shepherd who likes to be indoors will shed less in comparison to a sporty GSD who loves to play outside and easily gets dirty. Thats why the Living condition is also an important factor of shedding.
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Combine Fish Oil Into Their Daily Diet
If your dog is lacking in fatty acids, then adding fish oil may help be a simple solution to reduce their shedding.
Fish oil contains omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, which significantly decreases hair shedding. Fish oil also contains long-chain omega-3 fatty acids like DHA and EPA that help promote skin and coat health.
Given daily fish oils can help aid in excessive shedding. Look for a natural supplement that also contains other proven skin-healthy oils, like flaxseed oil.
Zesty Paws contains both salmon and hemp seed oil and is great for a healthy coat. Moreover, a blend of wild Alaskan salmon and refined virgin hemp seed oils work together to pack a powerful punch of nutrients and omega fatty acids. These ingredients may improve coat health, joint mobility, heart health, stress levels, and immunity.
A strong coat starts with supple skin that prevents excessive hair loss and protects your GSD from irritations. If youre seeing excessive hair loss try the blend of fish and hemp oil.
Keep in mind that positive effects take a few months to notice. So stay consistent with daily use for the best results.
Bathe Your Gsd Regularly
One of the best ways to get hair out of your dog without any of it floating around your home is to give them a good bath, especially if you massage them with a rubber curry brush while theyre soaking in shampoo or conditioner.
If you wash your Shepherd in the bathtub, be sure to put a hair trap in the drain to prevent clogging up your plumbing with all the fur youll rinse out of your dog.
This is especially true if you use a shower attachment to rinse out hair and shampoo better than you can by just dumping water over your dog with a pitcher.
One caveat here: washing your German Shepherd more than once a month or so can dry out their skin and cause additional shedding. If you feel the need to wash your dog more than once a month, be sure to use a gentle shampoo along with a conditioner to minimize the risk of drying out your dogs skin.
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How Do I Know If My German Shepherd Is Shedding Too Much
How much do german shepherds shed? A lot! But even then, there is such a thing as shedding too much! Since there are skin conditions that can cause your dog to shed more than normal its important to know what to look for. While entire patches of missing fur is obvious, there are some other signs that may not be as plain to see. Here are some things to watch for:
- Skin that is inflamed and red
- Skin that is flaky and dry
- Any wounds on your dogs skin
- Discharge coming from the skin
- Missing patches of fur
- Excessive shaking and scratching
If you notice any of these symptoms, or suspect that your dog may have an underlying condition call your vet and make an appointment. Its always better to err on the side of caution where your dogs health is concerned.
German Shepherds As Family Dog
We all know that German Shepherds are guard dogs, but did you know that they are also great family dogs? They are the perfect mix of the best of both worlds, with their curly coat and protective nature and their happy-go-lucky demeanor.
They have distinctive facial features include a short muzzle, strong jaws, and a large, erect, triangular-shaped head. German Shepherds are usually black or black and tan, but their color can range from brindle to fawn and everything in between.
German Shepherds are very intelligent, loyal, and protective dogs that are great for families. They are known to be extremely protective of their families and will stand up to protect them. They are also very social and like to be around people, but they can also be aloof, especially around strangers.
They are known to be very protective of their families and will stand up to protect them. They are also very social and like to be around people, but they can also be aloof, especially around strangers.
They make great companions, and they will do best with older children and adults who can take care of them and understand them.
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Try Out A German Shepherd Shedding Suit
Finally, if your German Shepherd can handle the potential embarrassment of wearing what amounts to long underwear, consider an .
They come in a variety of sizes and snazzy colors, so theres a onesie for every dog. Justtry not to laugh too hard when you put this thing on or your German Shepherds pride will be forever injured.
Jokes aside, the onesies are a good way to contain shedding for a short period of time, such as riding in the car or if someone with a pet allergy is visiting. The tight fit can also help alleviate anxiety, so its a double-whammy of benefits.
Still, its important to remember that the dog onesie should only be a temporary solution to short-term problems. The use of a onesie over a long period of time may be harmful as it could restrict healthy airflow to the skin and fur.
How To Brush A German Shepherd
Do you want to learn how to brush a German Shepherd so professionally that compliments rain down on your skills?
Ill let you in on the easiest brushing tips and show you the simple tools to ensure your German Shepherd looks like hes show quality ready and picture-perfect
Even if you own a German Shepherd puppy!
All without breaking your bank or stressing either of you out.
Lets get right into the only brushing how-to guide youll ever need for your German Shepherds grooming.
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German Shepherd Coat Maintenance
Youve accepted that your German Shepherd will shed like crazy no matter what. Great! But, now what? How do you deal with the insane amount of shedding?
All there is to it is to get started on maintaining that coat. Its no small task, but it does come with several benefits. Your home will be cleaner, for one. And your German Shepherd will be healthier.
Heres our guide to keeping your German Shepherds coat healthy and under control.
Why Do German Shepherds Shed So Much
One of the main reasons a German Shepherd will shed so much is because usually, they have two coats.
The top coat is the long, wiry, and wavy hair that lies close to the body of the dog. The top coat protects the dog from dirt and moisture, keeping it away from their skin. The guard hair may be short, medium-length, or long depending on the type of coat your German Shepherd has.
The undercoat, on the other hand, is soft, dense, short, and also lighter by color. This layer is what helps the dog regulate its body temperature.
Having this two-layer coat makes German Shepherds incredibly adaptable to all kinds of weather conditions, but it also makes them shed like crazy.
There are actually a few different types of coats your German Shepherd may have. Most commonly, GSDs have short hair with a double coat. The long-haired German Shepherd does not have an undercoat, but they tend to shed about the same because their fur is long, dense, and thick.
The difference is that long-haired German Shepherds don’t go through shedding seasons, because they don’t have that undercoat that needs to come off.
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German Shepherd Shedding Seasons
Like most double-coated dogs, German Shepherds blow their coats twice a year.
In the fall, they blow their undercoat to make way for a thicker, denser winter coat that will keep them insulated throughout the cold season. Then, during the spring, theyll blow out their winter coat to get rid of excess insulation and keep their bodies cool during the warmer summer months.
Coat blowing can go on for several weeks depending on how thick your GSDs coat is. During these times, youll notice tufts of fur that easily come off. Youll need to step up your grooming habits as well as your cleaning schedule during this time.
German Shepherd Shedding Season: How Oftendo German Shepherds Shed
Most German Shepherds shed daily.
And youll notice traces of hair on your floor, bed, andfurniture. However, the shedding is moderate compared to certain times of theyear.
Normally, German Shepherds shed their undercoat twicea year during spring and fall to pave the way for new hair.
They shed heavily during summer and least duringwinter.
Summertime is hot, and their thick coat makes thempant, so they have no option but to remove it.
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How To Stop Excessive Gsd Shedding
You cant stop any dog from shedding completely, this is a normal and natural process that most dogs go through. However, you can reduce excessive shedding and minimize how much of the hair ends up floating around your home.
And, in a healthy GSD, this mostly comes down to grooming him properly and making sure his diet is optimal. So lets explore each of these further.
A Good Diet Is Also Important
Your dogs diet plays a major role in your German Shepherds coat quality. After talking to several vets, I can conclude that a poor diet is the number one cause of excessive shedding in dogs. A nutrient heavy and balanced diet can keep your dogs coat healthy.
A healthy coat is easier to maintain and to groom. A healthy diet is even more important during the shedding season because almost 30% of your dogs daily protein intake is used for the renewal of skin and hair. Additional nutrients such as fatty acids, omega 3, and omega 6 are also essential since the deficiency of these nutrients can directly contribute to a dull coat, flaky skin, and excessive shedding problem.
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Hertzko Double Sided Pin And Bristle Brush
See the Hertzko Double Sided Pin & Bristle Brush on Amazon.
Dual-sided brush, with densely pack soft bristles on one side to knock off loose hair and dirt from the topcoat, and a pin comb on the other side to detangle and loosen dead undercoat.
The pins have rounded ends to avoid scratching your dogs skin. And for your comfort, the brush has a comfort-grip anti-slip handle to prevent wrist strain.
I’m not convinced by this brush. To me, it seems cheaply made. I’d rather go for a different double-sided brush that falls in the same price range but has a better reputation.
Factors That Affects German Shepherd Shedding
Shepherd shedding is something you should expect and be ready for if you decide to welcome this breed into your home. However, you should know that excessive shedding can be a sign of health problems .
But before your rush to any conclusions here is the most common reasons behind excessive shedding:
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Reduce Shedding Through Proper Diet
Another way to reduce excessive amounts of shedding is to ensure your dog is eating a healthy, balanced diet. Dog foods made from high quality ingredients, that are rich in vitamins and minerals, and that contain things like Omega-3, may help promote a healthier coat.
Its not that you need to buy some fancy, expensive dog food to stop shedding. You dont. But a quality dog food can make a difference to the condition of his coat and therefore how much it sheds. And like most things in life, you get what you pay for.
In addition to a healthy, balanced diet, there are also some great shedding supplements out there. And I dont just mean the ones that are marketed as dog shedding remedies. Some people with high shedding dogs even find that simple things, like adding a small amount of oil to their dogs food occasionally, helps. Whether it be virgin olive oil, fish oil, or coconut oil.
Of course, these arent guaranteed to work, and you should never alter your dogs diet without first consulting a qualified veterinarian. But some find these are helpful in addition to a healthy, balanced diet.
At the end of the day, if you live with a German Shepherd, you are going to notice some hair around the home. Theres no way to avoid this completely. But with proper grooming and making sure hes as healthy as possible, you can keep it to a minimum.
Check out this guide to reducing shedding if you want to learn more.
When And How Much Does A German Shepherd Shed
German shepherds are considered heavy shedders because of their coats which is completely true. They are known for shedding all year round in a moderate amount but they shed much heavily during the spring and fall season.
During their shedding season, they need much more grooming and care in order to avoid messiness. We will further discuss solutions.
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Do German Shepherds Shed Constantly
Unfortunately yes German Shepherds shed constantly, year around. While their shedding is especially intense during the spring and fall, they can and will lose their undercoat during the remainder of the year as well.
Managing your dogs shedding will be an everyday task just like feeding and walking your dog. By making it a routine, it will be easy for you and your dog to keep up with it.
It’ll Save You Green Backs
It’s a definite money-saver over the life span of your dog. German Shepherd’s can live to the ripe old age of 15.
And although there is an upfront investment for grooming equipment, it won’t be long before you win that money back.
Grooming costs are based on how much fur your dog has. You have a German Shepherd and that equals A LOT of fur.
Here’s an example for 2019:
For a German Shepherd with a double coat that needs regular grooming from an experienced, professional groomer who knows their stuff the prices go something like this
Bath: $40
Extra Brush Out: $16
That’s a whopping $164 per visit to the groomer per month!
And with a high maintenance coat like the German Shepherd’s, your GSD will need a minimum of 2 visits per month from the start of Spring to the end of Summer. That’s roughly 5 months.
If you have one dog, that adds up to $1620 per year!
So, you see, home-grooming makes a lot of financial sense!
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