Dog Shedding: What’s Normal, What’s Not & How to Manage It

By Dr Duncan Houston

Quick Answer

Shedding is normal in dogs, especially during seasonal changes. However, bald patches, itching, or sudden excessive hair loss can indicate an underlying health issue such as allergies, parasites, or hormonal disease.

As a veterinarian, I regularly assess coat health as an early indicator of overall wellbeing, since skin and hair changes are often one of the first signs of disease.

Finding fur on your couch, clothes, and somehow even your coffee mug? That’s part of life with a dog. But while shedding is normal, not all shedding is healthy.

Here’s how to tell the difference and what to do about it.

Why Dogs Shed

Shedding is a natural process where dogs lose old or damaged hair to allow new growth.

Common triggers include:

• Seasonal changes, especially in spring and autumn

• Breed genetics

• Temperature and daylight exposure

• General coat turnover

Some dogs shed constantly, while others shed in waves.

Breeds That Shed More

Certain breeds are built to shed, especially those with double coats.

Common heavy shedders include:

• Labrador Retrievers

• Golden Retrievers

• Siberian Huskies

• German Shepherds

• Border Collies

These breeds often “blow their coat” during seasonal transitions, which can feel like your house is being taken over by fur.

What’s Considered Normal Shedding?

Normal shedding typically looks like:

• Light to moderate hair loss year round

• Increased shedding during seasonal changes

• Even coat thickness without bald spots

• Healthy skin with no redness or irritation

If your dog fits this pattern, you’re dealing with normal coat turnover.

When Shedding Is Not Normal

Shedding becomes a concern when it’s uneven, excessive, or linked with skin changes.

Watch for:

• Bald patches or thinning areas

• Red, flaky, or inflamed skin

• Excessive scratching, licking, or chewing

• Sudden heavy shedding outside seasonal periods

• Dull, brittle, or dry coat

These are signs something deeper may be going on.

Common Causes of Abnormal Shedding

Allergies

Environmental or food allergies can cause inflammation, itching, and hair loss.

Parasites

Fleas, mites, and lice can trigger intense irritation and patchy shedding.

Hormonal Disorders

Conditions like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease often lead to symmetrical hair loss and poor coat quality.

Poor Nutrition

Low quality diets or sudden diet changes can affect coat strength and growth.

Infections

Bacterial or fungal infections can damage hair follicles and cause hair loss.

Stress

Stress related shedding is real. Changes like boarding, surgery, moving house, or new pets can trigger temporary coat loss.

How to Manage Normal Shedding

1. Brushing

Regular brushing removes loose hair before it ends up everywhere else.

• Use an undercoat rake or slicker brush

• Brush daily during heavy shedding periods

• Focus on high shed areas like the back and tail

2. Bathing

Bathing helps loosen and remove dead hair.

• Use gentle, moisturizing shampoos

• Avoid over bathing, which can dry the skin

• Deshedding shampoos can assist during peak shedding

3. Nutrition

Skin and coat health start from within.

• Feed a high quality, balanced diet

• Ensure adequate omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids

• Avoid frequent or sudden food changes

4. Hydration

Dehydration can worsen skin dryness and shedding.

• Always provide clean, fresh water

• Monitor intake, especially in warmer weather

When to See a Vet

You should get your dog checked if you notice:

• Bald spots or patchy hair loss

• Persistent itching or discomfort

• Skin redness, sores, or infections

• Sudden or severe increase in shedding

• Changes in coat texture or shine

Early intervention often prevents minor issues from becoming bigger problems.

Final Thoughts

Shedding is completely normal, but it should be predictable, even, and not associated with discomfort.

If something feels off, it usually is. Your dog’s coat is one of the easiest ways to spot early health changes, so it’s worth paying attention to.

FAQs

How much shedding is too much?
If your dog is losing clumps of fur, developing bald patches, or showing skin irritation, it’s no longer normal and should be checked.

What supplements help with shedding?
Omega 3 fatty acids such as fish oil can improve coat quality, but they should be used appropriately and under guidance.

Can stress cause shedding?
Yes. Stress related shedding is common and usually temporary, but ongoing stress should be addressed.

If you’re unsure whether your dog’s shedding is normal, tracking changes over time and getting professional input can make all the difference. The ASK A VET™ app allows you to log coat changes, upload photos, and get guidance when something doesn’t look quite right.