To reduce dog shedding at home, brush your dog several times a week with a tool made for its coat type, use a deshedding tool during spring and fall shedding seasons, bathe only as often as needed with a gentle dog shampoo, and keep your dog on a complete diet. You cannot stop a healthy dog from shedding, but a regular routine removes loose hair before it lands on your floors and furniture.
Many Canadian dogs "blow their coat" twice a year: in spring, when the thick winter undercoat comes out, and in fall, when the summer coat makes room for a warmer one. Here is how to keep shedding under control all year.
Why do dogs shed?
Shedding is normal. Dogs replace old or damaged hair, and double-coated breeds such as huskies, German shepherds, retrievers and corgis shed their undercoat heavily with the seasons. Indoor heating and less daylight can also change shedding patterns in winter.
Which brush is best for a shedding dog?
- Slicker brush: fine wire bristles that remove loose hair and small tangles on most coats. A self-cleaning slicker brush releases the collected fur with one button.
- Deshedding brush or rake: reaches into the undercoat of medium and long-haired dogs. Try a retractable deshedding brush or a double-sided deshedding rake.
- Rubber or silicone brush: good for short-haired dogs and for bath time, such as a silicone bath brush.
How often should you brush a dog that sheds a lot?
For most dogs, two or three short sessions a week are enough. During heavy shedding, daily brushing for a few minutes is easier for you and your dog than one long session. Brush in the direction of hair growth, work in small sections and stop if the skin looks red or your dog becomes uncomfortable.
Does bathing help with shedding?
Yes, when done right. A bath loosens dead hair, and brushing after the coat is completely dry removes much of it. Use a mild shampoo made for dogs, such as our 2-in-1 dog shampoo and conditioner. Bathing too often can dry the skin, so for most dogs once every few weeks is plenty. Read our step-by-step guide on how to bathe a dog at home.
What else reduces dog hair in the house?
- Brush outside or on an easy-to-clean floor.
- Wash your dog's bed and blankets every week or two. Beds with removable covers make this easier.
- Use a reusable pet hair remover roller on sofas, clothes and car seats.
- Vacuum often during shedding season.
When is shedding a health concern?
Talk to your vet if you see bald patches, red or flaky skin, sores, constant scratching or licking, a dull dry coat, or shedding that suddenly gets much worse. These can be signs of allergies, parasites, skin infections or other health issues that brushing will not fix.
Find all our brushes, rakes and shampoos in the dog and cat grooming tools collection, and build a full weekly routine with a simple grooming routine for dogs and cats. Every order ships free across Canada.
Frequently asked questions
Can I stop my dog from shedding completely?
No. Shedding is a normal process. Regular brushing reduces how much hair ends up in your home.
Should I shave my double-coated dog to reduce shedding?
Generally no. The double coat helps protect against cold and heat, and shaving can affect how it grows back. Ask a professional groomer or your vet before shaving.
Do deshedding tools hurt dogs?
Not when used gently. Use light strokes, avoid pressing on the skin and keep sessions short.
Written by Hicham, Zootly. This article is general information and does not replace advice from your veterinarian or groomer.