Confused about why do German Shepherds shed so much? We will help you understand it. If you’re a German Shepherd parent, you know that one of the main drawbacks of this breed is their propensity to shed excessively. In fact, many people refer to GSDs as “shedding machines!” All dog owners know that dogs shed. But did you know that German Shepherds shed a LOT?
While there’s not much you can do about the amount of hair your dog sheds, there are ways to reduce the amount of hair that ends up on your floors and furniture. In this article, we will discuss why do German Shepherds shed so much and offer some tips on how to reduce it.
Why Do German Shepherds Shed So Much Hair?
German Shepherds are basically “double coated” dogs, meaning they have an inner layer of short, dense fur (referred to as down hair) and a coarser outer coat (guard hairs). As the seasons change or their environment changes, GSDs will shed their undercoat. This is known as “blowing the coat.”
In addition to seasonal shedding, German Shepherds also shed year-round. This constant shedding helps keep their coat in tip-top shape by getting rid of old or damaged hair. It also helps regulate their temperature in hot and cold weather.
Shedding hair to a moderate degree is normal and healthy for dogs. However, some German Shepherds may shed more excessively due to health issues or genetic factors. Identifying and treating underlying health issues, such as hypothyroidism or allergies, can help reduce excessive shedding. Also, learn how do you potty train a German Shepherd puppy.
When Do German Shepherds Shed?
German Shepherds shed year-round, but they may experience more intense periods of shedding during spring and fall. During these times, GSDs will often “blow their coat,” shedding their undercoat in preparation for the changing seasons. This shedding helps keep their coat healthy and regulate their temperature.
Why Do German Shepherds Shed So Much – Causes
Here are some of the most common reasons why do German Shepherds shed so much:
- Seasonal changes
- Poor diet or nutrition
- Lack of grooming and brushing
- Allergies or skin conditions
- Underlying medical issues, such as hypothyroidism
How To Reduce German Shepherd Shedding
Now that you know why do German Shepherds so much, it’s time to fix the problem. While it’s impossible to completely stop German Shepherds from shedding, there are some steps you can take to reduce the amount of hair in your home.
Regular brushing and bathing
Brushing your GSD at least three times per week will remove loose hair before it ends up on the furniture or carpet. Bathing your GSD every 1-3 months can also help remove excess hair and keep your coat healthy.
Provide a balanced diet
A properly balanced, high-quality diet will keep your dog’s coat healthy and reduce excessive shedding. Consider adding omega-3 fatty acids to their diet, as these can improve skin and coat health.
Stay on top of medical issues
Regular vet check-ups can help identify and treat any underlying medical issues that may contribute to excessive shedding. This will also affect how long does a German Shepherd live.
Keep the environment stable
Changes in the environment, such as moving to a new home or introducing a new pet into the household, can cause excessive shedding. Try to keep their surroundings stable and minimize any potential stressors.
Invest in good brushing tools
Using the right brushing tools, such as a slicker brush or a de-shedding tool, can make all the difference in managing shedding.
Shedding is just one of the many traits to consider when choosing a dog breed. While German Shepherds do shed excessively, with proper care and grooming techniques, you can minimize the amount of shedding.
Conclusion
While German Shepherds do shed a lot, proper care and maintenance can help keep the hair under control. As a GSD parent, make sure you are providing your pup with a healthy diet, regular grooming, and addressing any medical issues. Now that you know why do German Shepherds shed so much, you can take care of them. Hope this article was helpful. Visit the German Shepherdss site for more information.