German Shepherds shed all year long but their shedding is heavier in the spring and fall. This is because they get rid of the undercoat to regulate the body temperature. Some other reasons can also trigger abnormal shedding in this breed. Keep reading to know why German Shepherds shed a lot and learn how you can manage their shedding.
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Why German Shepherds Shed?
The following triggers will make your German Shepherd shed a lot.
Seasonal Shedding
German Shepherds shed all year long. While their shedding is heavier in the spring and fall, they will shed their undercoat throughout the year. Hence, managing your dog’s shedding should be a part of your routine activity, just like feeding and walking him. Make it a habit and things will become easier for you and your dog.
Dehydration
When your dog loses more water than he takes in, healthy blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues and organs, including the skin, suffer. The consequent decrease in skin suppleness causes the fur to fall out readily.
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Poor Diet
A nutritious, well-balanced diet delivers a steady supply of critical elements. This nutrition supply is required for your German Shepherd’s hair to remain securely in the hair follicles. As a result, a nutrient-deficient diet will result in hair loss. Diet changes can also affect your dog’s coat, and any adverse reaction to a new food might result in hair loss.
Stress
German Shepherds are prone to separation anxiety and can get stressed if work full-time. It will result in hormonal imbalance because the body will be triggered to overproduce hormones. If that’s the case, your pooch will shed a lot of hair.
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How to Manage Shedding for German Shepherds?
Some simple methods to minimize the shedding for German Shepherds are discussed below.
Brushing
Brushing is essential for double-coated dogs, such as the German Shepherd. That is crucial grooming practice for your dog, especially because it sheds its coat all year. Brushing your German Shepherd at least twice a week during regular days is suggested. When shedding season arrives, remove any loose hair with an undercoat rake.
Avoid Cutting of Hair
If you see your dog’s coat growing longer, you may be tempted to clip or shave it. A German Shepherd’s coat should not be cropped or shaved unless a vet advises it. The coat protects the animal from hazardous elements and, more significantly, regulates its body temperature. If you remove its topcoat, the undercoat will be exposed to the cold of winter and the harsh rays of the sun during the summer.
Avoid Frequent Bathing
German Shepherds do not require regular bathing due to their thick coats. They only need to bathe every 6 to 10 weeks. That is done to maintain their undercoat smelling fresh and clean by removing all dead and loose hair.
Hygienic Environment
It is important to keep your German Shepherd in a clean and sanitary environment. This is to ensure that your dog is free from parasites, ticks, and fleas. If your dog becomes infected, it may experience health issues and excessive shedding. Also, make sure that your dog’s bedding is clean.
Healthy Diet
Nutrition is also a key aspect in reducing shedding in your German Shepherd. A proper diet can maintain your dog’s coat in good condition. You may consult your veterinarian about the best dog food for your German Shepherd as well as additional supplements. Remember that a healthy dog is simpler to groom and prevents excessive shedding.
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