Shedding is part of the reality of having a dog in your family, but some breeds shed much more than others. German Shepherds are one of the breeds known for shedding. In fact, these pups are so known for heavy shedding that one nickname for the breed is German Shedders!
You can’t totally stop your German from shedding – it’s part of the reality of loving these loyal and active dogs. But there are things you can do to cut down on your dog’s hair loss, and to better handle the shedding that does happen.
Read on for ways to reduce your German Shepherd’s shedding with some simple tips for grooming and diet.
🐕 How often do Germans shed?
German Shepherds shed all year round, in two different ways. They lose fur both during regular hair loss and when they ‘blow’ their undercoat during season changes.
Every autumn, these dogs shed their lighter summer coat to grow in a winter coat. And in spring, German Shepherds lose that heavier winter coat. It’s normal to notice heavier hair loss from your dog during this process, which takes a week or two.
🧑🏽⚕️ Rule out health issues
Now you know shedding is a normal part of life for your German Shepherd. But unexpected changes in your dog’s coat can mean something else is going on. Stress, allergies, hormone changes, fleas, and parasites are a few reasons your pup might lose more hair than usual.
If your dog has any of these symptoms, or others that worry you, see your vet for a check-up:
- Shedding more than normal for the time of year.
- Has bald spots in their coat.
- Seems less healthy or energetic than usual.
🛁 Grooming tricks to reduce shedding
Good grooming for your German Shepherd can cut shedding and keep some of that hair off your carpet.
Regular brushing is important for double-coat dogs like Germans. Brushing removes loose hair, prevents fur matting, and protects your dog’s skin from buildup.
Throughout the year, brush your dog gently a couple times a week, in the direction of hair growth. When your German is blowing its coat, brush more often and use an undercoat rake to remove their loose fur.
Germans usually need a bath only every couple of months, to help remove dead and loose undercoat hair. Bathe your dog with a gentle cleanser and gently comb their fur while still damp to remove any stubborn hairs.
😋 Choose a fur-healthy diet
A nutritious diet also helps your German Shepherd’s coat and skin stay healthy and shiny. Look for a regular food for meals that’s well balanced, with high-quality ingredients. healthybud’s freeze-dried bites and patties are packed with high-quality beef or chicken protein and health-supporting superfood ingredients.
Also look for treats and ingredients that boost coat and skin health. Here are a few to try:
- Fish full of healthy omega-3 fats, like healthybud’s Cod Skins treats
- Vitamin-rich carob, found in healthybud’s Turkey Gut Booster
- Antioxidant-packed sweet potato, like healthybud’s Sweet Potato chews
- Mineral-filled liver, like in healthybud’s Duck Calming Aid
❓ #DYK?
Smart and loyal German Shepherds were the first guide dogs! Dogs from this popular breed were trained to help vets blinded in World War I, then became popular as guide dogs for other people with visual disabilities.
DISCLAIMER: The information presented here is not meant to replace your vet’s advice or prescribed medications, but only to suggest additional options to explore, based on your dog’s condition.
Support your best bud’s health with high quality, healthy foods and treats you will both feel great about. Visit the healthybud website now to learn more about our products and subscription options.
