Yes, Beagles are known to shed quite a bit, especially during seasonal changes. They are prone to shedding year-round and tend to shed more if they live indoors. It’s important to note that shedding is a natural process and cannot be completely eliminated. However, it can be controlled to a certain degree with regular grooming and brushing. Keep reading to learn why Beagles shed a lot and what can be done about it.
Are Beagles Double-Coated?
Beagles do have a double coat which helps them to regulate their body temperature. The outer coat is made up of coarse guard hair while the soft undercoat provides insulation and warmth. The double coat allows beagles to adapt to harsh environments that were a regularity in their hunting days.
The double coat also means that Beagles require regular grooming to prevent matting and to keep their coat healthy. Fortunately, regular brushing and occasional bathing can help maintain their coat’s condition and minimize shedding.
Are Beagles Hypoallergenic?
No, Beagles are not hypoallergenic and shed quite heavily, especially during the shedding seasons. Their short, dense coat can trigger allergies in some people and that’s why it’s imperative to consider this factor while adopting a pet. In addition to that, Beagles have dander, which is a common allergen. Therefore, if you have allergies and are considering adopting a Beagle, it’s recommended to spend time with them beforehand to gauge your reaction to their dander and consult with an allergist.
When Beagles Shed the Most?
Beagles shed the most twice a year during seasonal changes, typically in the spring and fall. During these times, Beagles shed their winter or summer coats to make room for a new coat that’s appropriate for the upcoming season. This process is known as “blowing their coat” and can last for several weeks.
Beagles may also shed year-round, especially if they live indoors or have allergies. However, regular grooming can help reduce shedding and keep their coat healthy. It’s important to note that shedding is a natural process and cannot be completely eliminated, but it can be managed with proper care.
Reasons Why Beagles Shed a Lot
There are several reasons why Beagles shed a lot, including their coat type, health conditions, and lifestyle. Let’s discuss them in detail.
Coat Type
This is one of the primary reasons why Beagles shed a lot. They have a short, dense, double coat that sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes. This is a natural process that allows them to adapt to different weather conditions. However, regular grooming (brushing and occasional bathing) can help reduce shedding and keep their coat healthy.
Health Issues
Beagles can also shed excessively if they have an underlying health condition, such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease. These conditions can affect their metabolism and hormone levels, leading to excessive hair loss and shedding. If you notice that your Beagle is shedding more than usual, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to rule out medical reasons.
Lack of Grooming
Proper care and brushing are necessary to minimize the shedding in Beagles. If they are not groomed regularly, their coat can become matted and tangled. This will cause them to shed more hair. Hence, it’s important to brush your Beagle’s coat regularly, especially during shedding season, to remove loose hair and prevent matting. In addition to that, you can also bathe your Beagle occasionally to keep the coat clean and healthy.
Anxiety
Stress is a massive reason for excessive shedding among canines. It causes a hormonal imbalance which is responsible for hair loss and shedding. If you believe your Beagle is shedding excessively because of stress, identify and address the underlying cause to improve the situation. This includes reducing their exposure to stressful situations and providing them with exercise.
Similarly, you should offer an ample amount of mental stimulation to your pooch. Alternatively, seeking the services of a dog behaviorist can prove handy.
How to Control a Beagle’s Shedding?
Beagles are known for shedding quite a bit. Fortunately, there are many ways to keep the coat of your pup healthy. These methods can also help to control excessive shedding and some of them are discussed below.
Regular Brushing
The first step in controlling a Beagle’s shedding is to brush its coat regularly. This will help remove loose hair and prevent matting, which can contribute to shedding. You should brush your Beagle’s coat at least once a week. The frequency of brushing should increase during the shedding season. You should use either a soft-bristled brush or a rubber grooming tool to remove loose hair without hurting the coat and skin.
Frequent Baths
Another way to control a Beagle’s shedding is to give them regular baths. This will help remove dirt and oil from their coat which can contribute to shedding. However, be careful not to over-bathe your Beagle because this can dry out its skin and cause more shedding.
You can also use a mild dog shampoo for this purpose. Apply the shampoo and rinse thoroughly to remove any residue that can contribute to skin irritation and allergies.
Feed a Healthy Diet
You can also control a Beagle’s shedding by feeding them a diet rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins. These nutrients promote healthy skin and coat which helps control hair loss. You can also consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your Beagle’s individual needs.
Keep Your Pup Happy
Anxiety and stress are detrimental to the health of your pup and can cause excessive hair loss. Therefore, it’s imperative to keep your Beagle’s stress levels under control. One of the ways to achieve this goal is to offer your dog plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Similarly, create a calm and safe environment so that they could relax and feel comfortable. If you suspect that your Beagle is shedding due to stress, consult with a veterinarian or dog behaviorist for guidance.
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