If your German Shepherd is shedding like crazy and the hair is all over the house, you are probably thinking if it’s the German Shepherd shedding season or do they shed this way throughout the year.
German Shepherd dogs are large-sized breeds known as working dogs originally developed in Germany, mostly for herding flocks and protecting them.
They are known for their strength, courage, obedience, and physical body. They have a medium-length double coat that constantly sheds throughout most of the year.
They shed more for about 2-4 weeks as they “blow coat” during the spring season. Shedding is unavoidable, but regular brushing can help to reduce the shedding they drop around the house.
Why do German Shepherds shed?
German Shepherds shed like any other dog breed. Some breeds shed much less than others. Some types of dogs only shed seasonally, while others shed year around.
German Shepherds sheds heavily. Shedding a certain amount can be considered normal, but other factors such as stress, poor diet, skin allergies, and dehydration can make it even worse.
While some breeds only shed seasonally, others do so all year. It is due to their old hair falling out and new ones growing in their place.
German Shepherds have a thick coat and a large amount of fur; therefore, shedding regularly ensures the dog constantly keeps the same amount of hair. According to German Shepherds dog breed standard, they have a double coat just like Huskies and Malamutes. It also can be called an undercoat consisting of woolly, soft fur and an outer coat made up of long, thin, protective hairs.
A double coat protects them from injury, disease, and infection. This is the reason German Shepherd should never be shaved.
German Shepherd shedding season
German Shepherds sheds especially during summer and fall. The fall shedding helps prepare the dog for the cold winter months by shedding the outer coat.
Summer shedding gets rid of the undercoat to help cool the dog in the hot summer months. This process is called blowing and can last several weeks each time.
Health issues such as stress, dehydration and poor diet in German Shepherds can also cause unnecessary increase in shedding.
If you find your dog shedding more than usual, try administering a dog supplement for a healthy coat. If this does not, consulting a vet is a good idea.
Dog shedding is mainly due to three reasons – it assists with sensory perception, helps protect the skin from injury and disease, and regulates body temperature.
Best ways to reduce shedding
You can try to reduce shedding in German Shepherds following some simple tips.
Change your dog’s diet
Feeding your dog cheap dog food that is not nutritionally balanced may cause heavy shedding. Such dog foods usually contain large amounts of grain and corn, which are not digested well.
If you find your dog food is not proper and well-balanced, try a new brand with a lot of nutrition and real meat as the first ingredient.
Provide the right amount of food to ensure they get the vitamins and minerals necessary for their health needs.
While changing your dog’s food too quickly can cause stomach issues, so change the diet gradually.
Healthy diets reduce shedding and help with dry skin and improve the immune system.
Add oil to your dog’s food
Adding several oils to your dog’s food will help improve their coat. Oils such as flaxseed, fish, or olive oil are great choices of oils you can add. It helps improve their coat texture and heal their inflamed skin. Add supplements, usually the best dog supplements for dry skin, as it contains one of these oils.
The oils are effective because they contain omega-3 fatty acids. There are other ways to ensure that your dog is getting enough omega-3s by feeding salmon, tuna, and other types of fish.
Give your dog plenty of water daily
When it comes to dehydration, it is just bad for your dog as it is for humans. It affects the skin and makes it dry, implying that your dog is dehydrated.
If your dog is not getting enough water, it can lead to dry skin, increase the amount of shedding, and eventually lead to sickness.
Therefore, make sure your dog gets enough amount of water to stay hydrated, or else you can feed “water” foods such as watermelon if necessary, especially during summer seasons.
Feed certain types of human food
Although dogs have different nutritional needs than humans, some foods are great for them.
When given in moderate amounts, foods such as lean meats, certain fruits like watermelon and apples, etc., and vegetables are healthy for your dog.
Regular grooming
German Shepherds shed a lot, which does not mean they need excessive grooming like poodles or chow chows.
However, they need grooming once in a while. German Shepherds should be regularly brushed to remove extra fur and bathed regularly to wash away loose hair.
Your dog needs about 3-4 baths per year with a moisturizing dog shampoo.
De-shed your German Shepherd
Various De-shedding tools can be used to reduce shedding. Although these de-shedding tools won’t completely stop from shedding, they will remove some of it and prevent it from flying around your home.
When to be concerned about excessive shedding
It is important to know skin conditions can cause your dog to shed more than usual. Here are some things to watch out.
- Inflamed and reddish skin
- Flaky and dry skin
- Any wounds on your dog’s skin
- Discharge coming from the skin
- Missing patches of fur
- Excessive shaking and scratching
If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, your dog may have an underlying condition. Consult your vet or make an appointment.
Conclusion
German Shepherds are great dogs that make a great family dog. They are loyal and protective, making them the best companion for the entire family.
They need proper care and attention to maintain their diet and health. While heavy shedders are, make sure it does not get directed to other skin issues. Follow the proper instructions to reduce the shedding.
If required, use dog supplements best for their dry skin since dry skin causes extra shedding. There are itching treatments available, and make sure you read the ingredients and consider them before trying them out on your dog.