Although Yorkies do shed some hair, it can’t be called “a lot” by any means of imagination. This is because they have a single coat and the growth cycle of their hair is pretty balanced. However, this low-shedding breed can lose a significant amount of hair in some cases. Keep reading to know why Yorkies shed and learn how you can manage the shedding for this breed.
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Why Yorkies Shed?
Some of the primary reasons that can cause your Yorkshire Terrier to shed more are discussed below.
Puppy Shedding
It’s pretty natural for dogs to get rid of their puppy coat within the first few months of their life. Most breeds will do that by the age of 4-6 months but Yorkies can take a little longer (8-12 months). This can sometimes give an impression (to the owner) that the dog is shedding a lot. Some Yorkies might also change the color of their coat when they develop adult hair (after shedding the puppy coat).
Fungal Infections
Yorkies are vulnerable to fungal infections that can be detrimental to their skin and hair. These infections can be contracted by coming in contact with an infected animal or object. Not only do these infections affect the skin, but they can also damage the hair follicles of your dog. This will result in excessive hair loss and your furry companion can develop painful patches.
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Malnutrition
The lack of essential fatty acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6) and certain vitamins and minerals can cause excessive shedding in Yorkshire Terriers. The formulae of many commercial products are not balanced and can cause malnutrition. Therefore, it’s imperative to read the ingredients list properly and choose high-quality dog food for your pooch.
How to Manage Shedding for Yorkies?
The following are some of the ways to control the shedding rate of your Yorkies.
Keep the Skin Healthy
Allergies and skin issues (including infections) pose a serious threat to the coat of your dog. They can result in inflamed skin and excessive hair loss. The inflammation will also lead to scratching which will increase the shedding even more. In extreme cases, a Yorkie may develop infections which can be extremely troublesome for the dog and the owner.
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Ensure Regular Grooming
Brushing is the most crucial aspect of a dog’s grooming routine. It is extremely effective to prevent tangling (mats) of fur and excessive shedding in dogs. However, it’s important to ensure moderation because too much brushing can cause more harm than good. This is because it can cause inflamed skin which will trigger a vicious cycle of problems.
Therefore, you must determine a reasonable frequency of brushing for your pup and follow the routine to reap the benefits. In most cases, dogs with small coats (like Yorkies) should be brushed 2-4 times a week.
Yorkies will also require a bath every 2 weeks because their skin is more exposed in comparison to other breeds. This is because they have hair instead of fur and will catch more pollutants, like dirt. You will need a dog-safe shampoo for bathing your pup to get a thorough cleaning.
NOTE: Make sure that the shampoo is free from any harmful chemicals.
Provide a Balanced Diet
Proper nutrition is a very useful remedy to counter abnormal shedding in dogs. Healthy fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals strengthen the hair follicles and prevent undue hair loss. These nutrients are also beneficial for fighting infections and parasites that can contribute to shedding. Hence, it’s highly recommended to consult your vet and come up with a balanced diet plan for your pooch.
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