How to Reduce Shedding in Dogs Naturally: Expert Guide to a Healthier Coat

Shedding is a normal part of a dog’s life – it’s how our canine companions renew their coats. Yet excessive shedding can leave pet owners drowning in fur and worried about their dog’s health. The good news is that reducing shedding in dogs naturally is possible with the right approach. By understanding why dogs shed and addressing it through nutrition, natural supplements, and good care practices, you can manage shedding in a healthy way. This comprehensive guide (written in an authoritative but warm tone) explores the causes of shedding and how proactive, natural strategies can lead to less hair on your couch and a happier, healthier dog.

What Causes Shedding in Dogs?

Dog shedding is influenced by many factors, including breed, seasons, hormones, and overall health. Seasonal shedding is common – longer daylight in spring triggers dogs (especially double-coated breeds) to shed their thick winter undercoat. In fall, a similar “coat blow” happens as a lighter summer coat is shed to make way for winter insulation. Breed differences play a big role: dogs like Siberian Huskies or Labradors with dense undercoats are “heavy shedders,” whereas poodles and other curly-coated breeds shed very little because their hair growth cycle is long and continuous. Environment also matters – dogs that live mostly indoors under constant artificial light and temperature may shed small amounts all year instead of in big seasonal molts.

Beyond these normal patterns, hormonal and health factors can cause extra hair loss. Female dogs may shed more after giving birth or during hormonal changes. Low thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism) is notorious for causing a dry, thin coat and excessive shedding. In fact, any underlying illness or deficiency that affects skin and hair follicles can increase shedding. For example, dogs with chronic nutritional deficiencies or hormonal imbalances often have brittle fur that falls out easily. Skin parasites (fleas, mites) or allergies that cause itching can lead to more shed hair as the dog scratches and damages the coat. Even stress plays a part – anxious or fearful dogs can shed suddenly due to adrenaline release (ever notice fur flying at the vet clinic?). In short, normal shedding occurs to renew old hair, but excess shedding can be triggered by factors like daylight cycles, breed genetics, poor health, or stress.

When Is Shedding Considered Excessive?

It’s important to distinguish normal shedding from abnormal, excessive shedding. All dogs lose some hair daily, and heavy seasonal sheds are expected for many breeds. Excessive shedding means the hair loss is beyond the usual amount and may come with other warning signs. A major red flag is if shedding leads to bald spots or patchy thinning (alopecia) on your dog’s coat. In healthy shedding, new fur grows in as old fur falls out, so you shouldn’t see obvious bald patches. If you do see patches of missing fur or symmetrical hair loss along the body, that suggests an underlying problem. According to veterinary dermatology references, shedding is “abnormal (excessive) if it results in obvious loss of hair and areas of alopecia,” often due to issues like skin infections or other diseases. In contrast, if a dog’s fur is coming out but not leaving bare skin, it’s probably just the normal hair cycle at work.

Beyond hair volume, pay attention to coat and skin quality. Is the fur dull, dry, or breaking off? Is the skin underneath flaky, red, or irritated? These can indicate a problem such as poor diet, allergies, or illness contributing to extra shedding. Veterinarians note that one of the most common causes of excessive shedding is a poor or imbalanced diet lacking enough quality protein and nutrients. (Dogs on low-quality food often have dry, brittle fur that sheds more.) Other red flags include constant itching, lots of dandruff, or an unpleasant odor – which could point to parasites, fungal infections like ringworm, or bacterial skin infections that require treatment. Essentially, know your dog’s “normal” shedding pattern (which varies by breed and individual). If you’re suddenly vacuuming up far more fur than usual, or your dog’s coat is looking sparse or unhealthy, it’s time to investigate. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian to rule out medical issues. Catching problems like hypothyroidism, allergies, or skin infections early can make a big difference in managing excess shedding.

How Nutrition Influences Skin and Coat Health

“Your dog’s skin and coat are a reflection of their nutrition” is a mantra many vets repeat. A lustrous coat isn’t just for looks – it signals that your dog is getting what they need from their diet. Hair is about 95% protein, primarily the protein keratin. In fact, an estimated 25–30% of a dog’s daily protein intake is devoted just to skin and coat upkeep. This means if a diet is low in quality protein or missing key amino acids, the coat is one of the first places you’ll see the effects. Dogs not getting enough protein may develop dry, brittle, or thinning fur and slow hair regrowth, along with abnormal shedding cycles. Simply put, adequate high-quality protein (from meat, fish, eggs, etc.) is fundamental for minimizing excessive shedding by keeping the hair follicles strong and healthy.

Essential fatty acids (EFAs), namely Omega-3 and Omega-6 fats, are another nutritional cornerstone for skin and coat health. These “good fats” provide moisture to the skin from the inside out and help maintain the integrity of cell membranes. If the diet lacks EFAs or the Omega-6:Omega-3 balance is off, the dog’s coat may become dull and flaky, and shedding can increase. Omega-6 (like linoleic acid from plant oils) and Omega-3 (like EPA/DHA from fish oil) work together to keep the skin supple and inflammation in check. Without enough of them, you might see increased dandruff, dry skin, and more loose hair coming out during brushing. One sign that a dog may need more essential fatty acids is excessive shedding accompanied by dry, flaky fur. On the flip side, when dogs get plenty of Omega-3s and Omega-6s, their skin barrier improves – meaning less irritation and coat damage from allergens or dryness.

Several vitamins and minerals also directly impact shedding and coat quality. For example, zinc and copper are essential for normal hair growth and pigment; a zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss and a condition called zinc-responsive dermatosis in dogs. Vitamin A is needed for proper skin cell turnover and fur growth, while Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant to protect skin cells and promote a healthy immune response in the skin. Selenium and iodine are important for thyroid function, which, when imbalanced, can cause major coat shedding issues. Even adequate hydration is vital – a well-hydrated dog (from both drinking water and moisture-rich foods) will have more elastic skin and healthier follicles, whereas dehydration can contribute to dry, brittle fur. In summary, nutrition is one of the most powerful natural tools to reduce shedding. One veterinary review succinctly states that dietary factors play a major role in maintaining healthy skin and coat, and deficiencies in fatty acids, zinc, or vitamins can lead to coat problems and excess shedding. Feeding a high-quality, complete diet that provides optimal protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals will support your dog’s coat from within. If your dog’s shedding seems excessive, evaluating their diet is a smart first step – improving nutrition can often translate into a shinier coat and less hair floating around your home over time.

Natural Ingredients That Help Reduce Shedding

When basic diet alone isn’t enough, certain natural supplements and ingredients can give your dog’s coat extra support. Here we spotlight a few evidence-backed options and how they help with shedding:

Seaweed and Microalgae

Ocean plants like kelp (brown seaweed) and microalgae (such as spirulina and chlorella) are emerging as superstar ingredients for canine coat health. Seaweeds are packed with trace minerals (iodine, selenium, zinc) and vitamins that nourish the skin and hair follicles. For instance, kelp provides iodine to support healthy thyroid function – and since low thyroid levels cause hair loss, keeping the thyroid optimally fueled can improve coat thickness and reduce shedding. Kelp also supplies usable forms of selenium and zinc, which are crucial for skin integrity and fur quality. These minerals from seaweed act like cofactors that help enzymes and hormones (like thyroid hormone) do their job in maintaining a healthy coat. Many holistic veterinarians note that adding a bit of seaweed to a dog’s diet can dramatically improve coat condition over a few months. In fact, dog owners often report less shedding and softer fur after introducing a kelp supplement, which is attributed to seaweed’s rich mineral content and anti-inflammatory compounds supporting the skin’s immune balance. Essentially, seaweed is a natural multivitamin for the coat – providing over 60 trace elements and phytonutrients – and is often included in natural “skin and coat” supplements for this reason.

Microalgae like spirulina (a blue-green algae) and chlorella are another natural approach to reducing shedding. These algae are dense in amino acids, B-vitamins, iron, and antioxidants. Spirulina in particular has been studied for pets: one recent peer-reviewed trial found that dogs given spirulina daily for 6 weeks had a significant improvement in coat shine and quality. By the end of the study, the percentage of dog owners rating their dog’s coat as “optimal and shiny” nearly doubled, correlating with the higher spirulina intake. A healthier, shinier coat tends to shed less because the hair is stronger and the skin is not as dry or inflamed. Spirulina is also anti-inflammatory and supports the immune system, which can help dogs with allergic skin issues that lead to shedding. Chlorella, similarly, is noted anecdotally to make dogs’ fur softer and reduce shedding over time. The bottom line: seaweed and algae supplements (like powdered kelp, spirulina tablets, etc.) provide natural nutrients that target common causes of excessive shedding – from filling micronutrient gaps to supporting thyroid and immune function. Always choose high-quality, pet-safe seaweed products (for example, those specifically marketed as Seaweed for Dogs supplements) to ensure purity and proper iodine levels. These marine superfoods, used in moderation, can be a gentle yet effective way to nourish your dog’s coat and curb shedding naturally.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil)

If you ask a veterinarian or canine nutritionist for their top supplement to reduce shedding, many will point to omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s (like EPA and DHA from fish oil or algal oil) are famous for improving skin and coat condition. They work by reducing inflammation and nourishing the skin, which helps hair follicles stay healthy and anchored. Dogs with itchy, inflamed skin (from allergies or other conditions) often shed excessively because inflammation weakens the hair shafts and causes scratching. By supplementing omega-3s, you can often calm that irritation and thereby lessen excessive shedding caused by skin inflammation. In fact, one veterinary source notes that fish oil is a great solution to “suppress aggressive shedding or loss of hair”, and it can even help prevent bald spots by strengthening the coat. Omega-3s also improve the overall silkiness of the fur – many pet owners observe that after a couple months on fish oil, their dog’s coat is shinier and sheds less when brushed.

The key omega-3s for dogs are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). They are abundant in cold-water fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel. You can add them through fish oil capsules, liquid pumps, or even whole fish treats. Another benefit: omega-3s support skin hydration by helping the skin’s lipid barrier. Well-hydrated skin = less dryness and flaking, which means hair is less likely to fall out prematurely. Scientific studies in pets back this up: diets rich in omega-3s have been shown to significantly improve coat quality and reduce signs of itchy skin. For example, in one study dogs on omega-3 supplementation experienced about a 30% reduction in itch-related scratching behaviors, indicating calmer skin. With less itch and inflammation, the coat can remain intact longer. When choosing an omega-3 supplement, opt for high-quality fish oil made for pets (to avoid excess vitamin A/D and contaminants). Algal oil is a vegetarian source of DHA that can also be used. A typical dose might be around 20–55 mg combined EPA/DHA per pound of dog’s body weight, but check with your vet for your dog’s needs. Over time, omega-3 fatty acids can noticeably decrease excessive shedding by tackling one root cause – unhealthy skin – and by promoting a glossy, resilient coat from the inside.

Antioxidants and Key Vitamins

Antioxidants can indirectly help reduce shedding by improving overall skin health and reducing environmental damage to hair follicles. Vitamins C and E are potent antioxidants that support the skin’s repair processes. While dogs produce some vitamin C internally, additional antioxidants from diet (found in berries, leafy greens, or supplements like coenzyme Q10) may benefit dogs with skin issues. Vitamin E is especially important; it protects cell membranes and has anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. A deficiency in vitamin E or other antioxidants could lead to increased oxidative stress in the skin, which may worsen conditions like dandruff or itchiness (and thus shedding). Some natural antioxidant-rich ingredients used in dog supplements include astaxanthin (a red antioxidant from microalgae), turmeric (curcumin is anti-inflammatory), and fruit extracts (blueberry, pomegranate). While these won’t stop normal shedding, they help create an internal environment for optimal coat growth. Think of it as rust-proofing the hair from within – less damage means stronger hair that stays in place longer.

In addition, ensure your dog is getting B-vitamins like biotin and riboflavin, which are crucial for metabolism in skin and hair cells. Biotin in particular is known to improve hair coat in dogs and other animals; it’s often included in “skin and coat” chewables. Vitamin A (from sources like fish liver oil or beta-carotene in veggies) is required for proper shedding cycles and skin cell turnover. Too little vitamin A can cause dry, scaly skin and poor-quality coat. However, be cautious – more is not always better, as vitamin A toxicity can occur with over-supplementation. Generally, a balanced diet provides these vitamins, but if you’re using a supplement, choose one with appropriate, vet-recommended doses of vitamins. A well-rounded natural supplement for coat health might combine fish oil (omega-3s), zinc, biotin, vitamin E, and perhaps seaweed or herbal additives – all working together to reduce excess shedding. Each dog is unique, so you may need to experiment (under vet guidance) to find the right combo of natural ingredients that yields a healthier coat.

Grooming, Stress, and Environment: Additional Tips

Beyond diet and supplements, good grooming habits and a low-stress environment are key natural ways to manage shedding. Here are some additional tips to keep fur loss under control:

• Regular Brushing: Frequent brushing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce loose hair in your home. Brushing a few times a week (or even daily for heavy shedders) helps capture dead hairs on the brush before they fall off around the house. It also distributes the skin’s natural oils along the hair shafts, promoting a healthier, shinier coat. Choose a brush or comb suited to your dog’s coat type (slicker brushes for long hair, bristle brush or rubber curry for short hair, undercoat rake for thick double coats, etc.). Most dogs enjoy brushing once they get used to it, and it can be a great bonding time that keeps their coat in top shape.

• Appropriate Bathing: Keeping your dog clean is important, but over-bathing can backfire. Too-frequent baths or using harsh shampoos (like human shampoos) can strip the natural oils from a dog’s skin, leading to dryness and more shedding. Aim to bathe your dog every 4–8 weeks (varies with lifestyle and coat type) using a gentle, moisturizing dog shampoo. Oatmeal-based or aloe-based shampoos can soothe the skin. Always rinse thoroughly – leftover soap residue can irritate the skin and cause itching/shedding. After bathing, a good conditioning rinse or spray can help replenish moisture. By keeping the coat clean but not overly dry, you’ll minimize hair breakage and fallout. (Tip: Never use human shampoo on dogs – the pH is inappropriate and it often causes flakiness and excess shedding.)

• Manage Stress: Stressful events or chronic anxiety can trigger shedding spikes in dogs. You might notice tufts of fur coming off during vet visits, thunderstorms, or when the dog is left alone – that’s the adrenaline (“fight or flight”) response causing hair to release. To naturally reduce stress-related shedding, work on keeping your dog’s environment and routine as calm and consistent as possible. Provide a safe, comfy space for your dog to retreat to. During known stressors (like fireworks nights), use calming aids if needed – a Thundershirt, soothing music, or natural calming supplements (e.g. those containing L-theanine or chamomile) recommended by your vet. Adequate exercise and mental stimulation also go a long way to reduce anxiety. A well-exercised dog is generally less tense and less prone to stress shedding. In cases of severe anxiety, consult a veterinarian or behaviorist for a holistic plan. Reducing stress not only curbs shedding but also improves your dog’s overall well-being.

• Environment and Coat Care: Simple environmental tweaks can help with shedding. If you live in a very dry home (especially in winter with indoor heating), consider using a humidifier – adding moisture to the air can prevent your dog’s skin from getting too dry and flaky, which in turn reduces hair loss due to brittleness. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is also beneficial; overweight dogs can have more skin issues (and endocrine problems) that affect the coat. Parasite prevention is crucial: fleas, ticks, and mites cause itchiness and skin reactions that lead to major fur loss. Use natural flea control or vet-recommended preventatives year-round so your dog isn’t shedding due to scratching at bites. Lastly, maintain a consistent light cycle if possible. While you can’t change the seasons, you can avoid unnecessary light exposure at night (for example, don’t leave lights on all night where the dog sleeps) – this helps not to completely confuse their natural coat-thinning cycle. And if shedding is really ramping up seasonally, a professional grooming session for a de-shedding treatment (blow-out, undercoat removal tools, etc.) can remove the bulk of dead fur in one go. That’s a natural way (just mechanically assisted) to speed through a shed and spare your carpet some fur.

By combining smart grooming practices with a comfortable, low-stress environment, you support your dog’s coat health from the outside while nutrition works from the inside. This one-two punch can significantly reduce the amount of loose hair you find on your furniture, all while keeping your pup happier and healthier.

Choosing High-Quality Coat Supplements

If you decide to add a coat supplement to help with shedding, it’s important to choose a high-quality product. Not all supplements are created equal, and a low-grade one might do more harm than good. Here are some factors to consider when selecting natural coat supplements:

• Purity and Sourcing: Look for supplements made by reputable companies that source their ingredients responsibly. For example, if it’s a fish oil, is it derived from wild-caught, small fish (like anchovies or sardines) which tend to have lower mercury levels? Is it molecularly distilled or third-party tested for heavy metals and contaminants? High-quality seaweed supplements for dogs should come from clean, unpolluted waters and be tested for things like arsenic or iodine content to ensure they’re safe. Reputable brands will often mention purity testing and source locations on the label or website.

• Bioavailability: This refers to how easily the supplement’s nutrients can be absorbed and used by your dog’s body. For instance, chelated minerals (minerals bound to amino acids) are often better absorbed than inorganic mineral salts. If you’re buying a zinc supplement for the coat, a form like “zinc proteinate” or “zinc picolinate” may be more effective than plain zinc oxide. Similarly, fish oil in triglyceride form is usually better absorbed than ethyl ester forms. Choose supplements that highlight bioavailable forms of nutrients. Whole-food based supplements (like those containing dehydrated kelp, spirulina, or fish collagen) may offer nutrients in a naturally bioavailable matrix that the body recognizes. The goal is to get those vitamins and fatty acids into your dog’s system in a useful form.

• Ingredient Transparency: A high-quality supplement will clearly list all its active ingredients and their amounts. Avoid mysterious “proprietary blends” that don’t tell you how much of each ingredient is present. You want to know exactly what your dog is ingesting. Check for artificial additives or fillers – the best natural coat supplements minimize unnecessary preservatives, coloring, or flavoring. For example, if you’re getting a chew, look at what’s holding it together (avoid ones loaded with sugar or artificial flavor). Less is more when it comes to additives.

• Evidence and Reviews: Ideally, choose products that have some scientific backing or veterinary formulation. Some premium skin/coat supplements might have clinical studies or trials to support their efficacy (for instance, a study showing reduction in shedding or improvement in coat gloss after 8 weeks of use). While not every supplement is formally studied, you can also look for veterinarian endorsements or check if the formula was developed by veterinary nutritionists or dermatologists. Additionally, read reviews from other pet owners – consistent reports of “my dog’s shedding decreased and coat improved” are a good sign, whereas reports of digestive upset or no effect are caution flags.

• Certification: If possible, look for supplements that carry quality certifications or are made in GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certified facilities. The National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) seal on a product is one indicator of a company following high standards for pet supplements. This can give you peace of mind that what’s on the label is actually in the product.

By focusing on purity, bioavailability, and trustworthiness of a supplement, you ensure that your dog is getting a safe product that will truly help their coat. For example, a high-quality omega-3 fish oil for shedding will be mercury-free and perhaps enriched with vitamin E (to keep it fresh and provide antioxidant benefit). A good seaweed-based coat supplement will use a species of kelp known to be nutrient-rich but low in heavy metals, and might be combined with fish oil or flaxseed for a broader effect. Always follow dosage instructions – more is not always better. If you’re ever unsure about which supplement to choose, consult your veterinarian, who can recommend products based on experience and even run bloodwork to see if your dog has specific deficiencies. Remember, supplements are meant to complement a healthy diet and grooming routine, not replace it.

Safety and Realistic Expectations

When taking the natural route to reduce your dog’s shedding, it’s vital to keep safety and expectations in mind. First and foremost, shedding is natural and cannot be eliminated entirely – any product or person that promises to “stop all shedding” is not being realistic. Dogs will always shed to some degree as old hairs cycle out. The goal of nutrition and supplements is to reduce excessive shedding and improve coat condition, not to achieve zero shedding. It’s more about management and improvement. With that in mind, expect gradual changes, not overnight miracles. You might notice less loose hair after a month or two of dietary improvements or supplements, and a shinier coat after regular grooming and oils – but your Golden Retriever will still drop some fur in the spring, for example. Celebrate the progress (maybe you’re brushing out a bit less fur or the dog’s “fur tumbleweeds” around the house are smaller), but understand that a completely shed-free dog is not healthy or normal.

On the safety side, natural doesn’t always mean 100% risk-free, so use common sense and moderation. Introduce any new supplement slowly and one at a time, so you can monitor how your dog reacts. For instance, adding too much kelp (seaweed) could lead to excess iodine intake, which might disturb the thyroid if overdone. Always stick to recommended doses – a little goes a long way with mineral-rich supplements. If you’re giving fish oil, know that high doses can add calories and in rare cases might cause soft stools or clotting issues, so talk to your vet about an appropriate amount. Watch for any adverse reactions: if your dog gets digestive upset, itchier, or shows any unusual symptoms after starting a supplement, discontinue use and consult your vet. It’s also wise to have a conversation with your veterinarian before starting supplements, especially if your dog has underlying conditions or is on medication. For example, if your dog is on a balanced commercial diet, adding a bunch of extra vitamins could throw things off balance (certain nutrients like vitamin A, D, or iodine can be toxic in excess). A vet can help tailor a plan – maybe they’ll suggest a specific fatty acid supplement or a multivitamin based on your dog’s health status.

Another aspect of safety is quality, as we discussed in the supplement section. Poor-quality products could contain contaminants or not even have the labeled amount of ingredient, which at best does nothing and at worst could be harmful. So do your homework and invest in reputable options.

Finally, maintain realistic expectations about shedding: you can reduce it significantly, but you can’t change your dog’s genetics or the seasons. If you have a heavy-shedding breed, even the best regimen will only lessen (not eliminate) the hair count. And that’s okay! Reducing shedding naturally is about improving your dog’s coat health and comfort. When the coat is healthy, the skin is nourished, and any excess hair loss due to problems is resolved, you’ll find the shedding level becomes “normal” and much more manageable. Embrace regular grooming and cleaning as part of life with a dog, and focus on the bigger picture: a glossy, healthy coat is a sign of a healthy dog. With patience and proper care, you’ll find a balance where your dog looks and feels great – and you aren’t constantly battling piles of fur.

Shedding in dogs is a fact of life, but it doesn’t have to be a source of frustration. By understanding what causes shedding – from seasonal changes and breed traits to nutrition and stress – proactive pet owners can take natural steps to keep it under control. The foundation of reduced shedding is a healthy diet rich in high-quality protein, essential fatty acids, and vital nutrients that support skin and coat. On top of that, natural supplements like seaweed (kelp), spirulina, and fish oil can provide an extra boost, supplying minerals and omega-3s that strengthen hair and reduce excess fur loss. Good grooming practices (regular brushing, proper bathing) and a low-stress environment further ensure your dog isn’t shedding more than necessary. Remember, you can’t stop shedding altogether, but you can dramatically improve your dog’s coat health so that shedding is minimized and manageable. The result is a happier dog with a shiny coat – and a happier you with less hair on your clothes and furniture. With a holistic, natural approach, reducing shedding becomes not a chore but part of caring for your dog’s overall wellness.

FAQ

Can I completely stop my dog from shedding?
No – shedding is a natural process for dogs, so it can’t be stopped entirely. However, you can reduce excessive shedding with proper diet, grooming, and care. The goal is to minimize unhealthy shedding, not eliminate normal shedding.

What supplements help reduce shedding in dogs?
Omega-3 fatty acids (like fish oil) are a top supplement to reduce shedding, as they improve skin moisture and coat quality. Seaweed or kelp powder can also help by providing iodine and minerals for a healthy coat. Supplements with biotin, zinc, and other coat nutrients may aid as well – always use high-quality products and check with your vet for guidance.

When should I be concerned about how much my dog is shedding?
Be concerned if your dog’s shedding is accompanied by bald spots, irritated skin, excessive scratching, or if the shedding suddenly increases dramatically. These can be signs of an underlying issue (allergies, parasites, hormonal imbalance). In such cases, it’s best to consult a veterinarian to identify and address the cause.

How long does it take to see results after improving my dog’s diet or adding supplements?
It generally takes a few weeks to a few months to notice a difference. Hair growth and skin turnover are gradual processes. Many owners observe a shinier coat and reduced shedding after about 6–8 weeks of omega-3 supplementation or diet change. Subtle improvements (like less dandruff or softer fur) may appear sooner. Consistency is key – keep up the regimen and you should see continual progress.

Does brushing my dog really help with shedding?
Absolutely. Brushing removes loose fur before it falls off and spreads around your home. It won’t stop the dog from shedding, but it collects the shed hair in one spot. Brushing also distributes natural oils on the coat, which can make the fur healthier and less prone to breakage. Regular brushing (daily or several times a week) is one of the easiest ways to manage shedding.

References

1. Merck Veterinary Manual. “Shedding and Hair Loss in Dogs.” Merck Vet Manual – Integumentary System. (Defines normal vs. excessive shedding and common causes)

2. Watson, T.D. (1998). Diet and skin disease in dogs and cats. Journal of Nutrition, 128(12 Suppl), 2783S-2789S. (Highlights the role of nutrition – protein, fatty acids, zinc, vitamins – in maintaining healthy skin and coat)

3. Coates, J. (2013). Coat and Skin Health as an Indicator of Nutritional Status. PetMD. (Veterinarian-written article noting that 25–30% of a dog’s protein intake supports the coat, and listing signs of nutrient deficiencies like increased shedding)

4. Stefanutti, D. et al. (2023). Oral palatability and owners’ perception of spirulina in healthy dogs and cats. Animals (Basel), 13(8):1275. (Study in which dogs given Spirulina showed improved coat shine and condition by the end of 6 weeks)

5. Seaweed for Dogs – Natural Pet Nutrition. “How Seaweed Supports the Thyroid and Hormonal Balance in Dogs.” (Explains how kelp supplementation provides iodine, selenium, and zinc to improve thyroid function and coat quality; reports anecdotal reduction in shedding with seaweed)

6. Richmond Valley Vet (2019). Omega-3 Fish Oil Benefits for Cats and Dogs. (Veterinary blog article; states that fish oil’s EPA/DHA help suppress excessive shedding and promote a healthy, shiny coat)

7. PetMD (2023). Excessive Shedding in Dogs – Causes and When to See a Vet. (Discusses normal vs. abnormal shedding; notes poor diet as a top cause of excess shedding and warns against harsh shampoos causing flaking/shedding)

8. VCA Animal Hospitals – CAVN. “The Importance of Your Pet’s Skin and Coat and the Role of Nutrition.” (Details nutrients for coat health: e.g. protein up to 35% of intake, linoleic acid, omega-3s, zinc, biotin; explains how indoor living can lead to year-round shedding)