As much as you love your dog, excessive shedding can affect the cleanliness of your home. At the Dog House Pet Salon, we know that a clean and fresh pet is a happy pet. That’s why our pet grooming Houston experts have put together these tips to help manage excessive shedding.
Breed Specific Grooming
Keeping your pet clean and groomed is one of the most basic pet care responsibilities. Regular grooming at a professional salon ensures the general well-being of your pup. It also removes sticks, matted fur, bumps, and other things, keeping them and your home clean.
The degree of shedding depends on the breed of your canine buddy. For example, German Shepard’s are prone to heavy shedding, whereas Schnauzer’s hardly shed at all.
“The degree of shedding depends on the breed of your canine buddy.”
All things considered; certain dog breeds have specific grooming concerns. If you’re not sure how to best groom your specific breed, feel free to speak with one of our professional dog groomers.
While shedding differs from breed to breed, it can also be a sign of heightened stress, poor diet, or a medical issue. If you notice sudden hair loss or patching on your pet, seek advice from a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Brush Often
When you crank up the AC, the last thing you want to see is a dog hair tumbleweed blowing across the kitchen floor.
Don’t fret! Regular brushing will prevent fallen fur from clinging onto your fabric and other furniture. It also improves your pet’s health by redistributing oils throughout their coat.
Our pet grooming Houston professionals recommend brushing your dog up to once or twice a day! That can seem like a lot, but a little goes a long way—plus it will save hours you would’ve spent vacuuming.
To begin, ask your dog to sit and reward good behavior with a treat. Then, before getting started, let your dog sniff the brush you are using. For nervous dogs, start by brushing the tail and working your way forward.
Use the Correct Brush
Different types of dogs need different kinds of brushes. Knowing which brush to use depends on your pup’s hair length, thickness, and texture. It wouldn’t make sense to use the same brush for a poodle as you would for a corgi. Each breed’s hair is different.
Many pet owners don’t know how important it is to choose the right brush for your furry friend. When you pick the right brush, your pup will learn to enjoy the grooming process.
Your pet’s coat type will determine which brush to pick. For now, lets will narrow it down to the three main brushes used for different coat types.
Bristle Brushes
Bristle Brushes are very versatile and work with a lot of different coat types. Yet, the widely spaced and longer bristles work well for pets with longer coats. The more coarse your pup’s fur, the stiffer the bristle needed.
Wire-Pin Brushes
Dogs with medium to long curly or wooly coats work best with wire pin brushes.
Slicker Brushes
These brushes are made from wire bristles and help remove tangled or matted dog hair.
Not sure which brush to use on your pup, or interested in booking a dog grooming appointment? Contact one of our attentive staff members today!
Consider a De-Shedding Tool
If you’re struggling to keep up with the amount your pet is shedding, you may need to consider using a de-shedding tool. Shedding tools work to remove dead or loose hair from your dog’s undercoat. The best part? Hair removal occurs without damaging your pet’s fur or skin health in the process.
“Shedding tools remove dead or loose hair from your dog’s undercoat.”
Keep Your Home Tidy
Want a clean home minus the dog hair? In this scenario, your vacuum and handy lint roller are your best friend! If your dog is a couch potato, there is always the option of covering furniture with a plastic cover, throw, or sheet.
Improve your Dog’s Diet
You can tell a lot about the state of your dog’s health by looking at its coat. And when your pet’s health is at an optimal level, hair reduction is less likely to occur — because of this, feeding your pup a quality diet is so crucial.
To ensure your dog meets its nutritional needs, be sure to include lots of digestible protein, vitamins, and minerals into the meal plan. You can also incorporate omega-3 fatty acids into your pet’s diet to promote hair growth.
But before giving your pet supplements, be sure to consult with your veterinarian first. Get in touch with the best salon for pet grooming Houston to keep your pet’s hair totally under control.
Seasonal Shedding: How to Adapt Your Routine
Certain times of the year, like spring and fall, can lead to more shedding as dogs shed their winter or summer coats. During these seasons, it’s essential to increase grooming frequency. Regular brushing and the use of de-shedding tools can help keep shedding manageable. You can also consider scheduling more frequent grooming sessions at a professional salon, especially for breeds with thicker undercoats, such as Huskies or Golden Retrievers.
Hydration and Coat Health
Proper hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining your dog’s coat health. A lack of water can cause dry, brittle fur, leading to more shedding. Ensure your dog always has access to fresh, clean water, especially during hot months. Adding wet food to their diet or providing water-rich treats like cucumbers and watermelon (in moderation) can also promote hydration and healthier fur.
Managing Shedding Through Bathing
Routine bathing not only keeps your dog clean but also reduces the amount of loose hair. Use a high-quality, dog-specific shampoo that is designed to reduce shedding. Bathing helps to loosen and remove dead hair, and following up with conditioner can keep the coat soft and reduce breakage. Aim for a bath every four to six weeks, depending on the breed and coat type, to manage shedding effectively.
How Stress Affects Shedding
Stress is a little-known but significant factor that can cause excessive shedding in dogs. Changes in environment, new pets, or loud noises like fireworks can increase stress levels. To minimize shedding caused by stress, create a stable routine and safe environment for your dog. Calming products like pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps can also help, especially in high-stress situations.
Regular Checkups: Health and Shedding
Regular veterinary checkups can ensure your dog’s shedding is healthy and normal. Excessive shedding can sometimes indicate underlying health issues such as skin allergies, hormonal imbalances, or parasites. If you notice abnormal shedding patterns or if your dog’s coat appears dull or patchy, a visit to the vet is recommended to rule out any potential health problems.
Indoor Air Quality and Shedding
The quality of air in your home can also impact your dog’s shedding. Dry air, particularly during winter, can lead to skin irritation and increased shedding. Using a humidifier can help maintain optimal humidity levels, reducing skin dryness and shedding. Regularly cleaning air filters and ensuring proper ventilation will also reduce dander and pet hair in the home.
Professional Grooming: A Game Changer
While regular at-home grooming is vital, scheduling periodic professional grooming sessions can make a huge difference. Professional groomers have specialized tools and techniques, such as blow drying and high-velocity dryers, which effectively remove dead hair and reduce shedding. Groomers can also assess your dog’s coat and skin condition, giving you insights into any potential issues.
Enjoy Attentive Pet Grooming Houston Services at The Dog House Pet Salon
At The Dog House Pet Salon, your pooch’s happiness is our happiness. Your pet’s safety, health, and well-being are our top priority. As the trusted pet grooming salon in Houston, we guarantee that your pup will be well cared for.
This Guide is All You Need for Keeping Dog Hair Under Control | The Dog House Pet Salon – Houston, TX