How to Manage Your German Shepherd’s Shedding
If you’re an owner of a German Shepherd, you’re no stranger to the shedding season that seems to be present all year round. German Shepherds are known to shed quite a bit, which, if not managed properly, can lead to things like matting, uncontrollable hair growth, and the never-ending hair that can be found in every nook and cranny of your home.
Being a German Shepherd owner, I know how frustrating this can be. So, I’ve put together this article on how to manage your German Shepherd’s shedding based on my own experience and research. With these tips, you can help control your German Shepherd’s shedding and reduce the amount of hair in your home.
Brush Your Dog Regularly
Regular brushing is essential in managing your German Shepherd’s shedding as it will help remove loose hair and prevent mats and tangles. Brushing daily or every other day with a high-quality brush, especially for long-haired dogs like the German Shepherd, is recommended. A slicker brush, undercoat rake, or shedding tool can help remove the loose hair effectively.
When brushing, it’s essential to do it gently to avoid hurting your dog’s skin while ensuring thorough coverage. Brush the coat from the head all the way to the tail, and make sure not to miss any areas like the undercoat or behind the ears. Brushing your dog outside or over something that can catch the shed hair will help minimize the amount of hair around your home and reduce your cleaning time.
Provide a Healthy Diet
A nutritious diet is important for a healthy coat that sheds less. Your German Shepherd’s coat needs adequate nutrients to thrive, like essential fatty acids, Omega 3 and 6, protein, and vitamins. Feeding your dog premium quality dog food that suits their age, weight, and activity level will ensure they get adequate nutrition. You may also supplement their diet with healthy foods that support skin and coat health, such as salmon, flaxseed, and eggs.
Keep Your Home Clean
Keeping your home clean is crucial for reducing the amount of dog hair, especially if you or a family member is sensitive to allergens. Vacuum your carpets and rugs frequently, dust and clean surfaces, and wash your dog’s bedding often. Use a lint roller or a damp cloth to wipe away the hair accumulated on furniture.
If you have a strong vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, that’s even better as it will pick up the hair, dander, and other allergens much more effectively, helping you to breathe easier.
Bathe Your German Shepherd Regularly
Another way to manage your German Shepherd’s shedding is by bathing them regularly. Using a gentle, specialized shedding shampoo can help remove loose hair, excess oil, and dandruff.
However, bathing too frequently is not recommended as it can strip your dog’s coat of natural oils that keep it shiny and healthy. Experts recommend bathing your German Shepherd every 6-12 weeks or according to your dog’s own specific needs.
Use Specialized Shampoos
Using a dog shampoo that is specifically formulated for shedding dogs can further help in your efforts to manage shedding. Shedding shampoos contain ingredients like omega fatty acids, biotin, and vitamin E. These ingredients help to promote healthy skin, reduce inflammation, and prevent bacterial infections that may cause dry skin and shedding.
Choose a shedding shampoo that is gentle and free of harsh chemicals that may irritate your dog’s skin. The more natural, the better. It’s important to check the ingredients list of any product you use on your furry friend!
Visit Your Veterinarian
If your German Shepherd’s shedding has suddenly increased or is accompanied by other health issues, such as patchy hair loss, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. Shedding can indicate underlying health issues such as hormonal imbalance, hypothyroidism, or allergies. Your vet can examine your dog and determine if there is an underlying cause, and provide appropriate treatment if needed.
In conclusion, managing your German Shepherd’s shedding may seem challenging, but with a few tricks, you can reduce the hair around your home and ensure your four-legged friend’s coat is healthy, shiny, and balanced. Regular grooming sessions, proper nutrition, a clean environment, and mild shampoos, all practiced with patience and lots of love, will help minimize the shedding and keep your German Shepherd comfortable all year round.
