If you have a family member of the canine persuasion, then you've experienced dog shedding. With the exception of a few specific breeds, nearly all dogs shed. It is the how the dog's body gets rid of its heavy winter coat when outside temperatures change. Most dogs shed out once a year, usually in the spring, but a few, like Akitas, have several shedding cycles every year. Stress or illness should be suspected if a dog is shedding excessively or at an unusual time.
Now the big question: what to do with all that dog fur? The easiest answer is to brush your pet daily. Brushing not only gets rid of loose dog hair, it also removes dirt, dander and odor-causing body oils. It stimulates the dog's skin, as well, increasing circulation and keeping the skin healthier. Bathing your dog just before brushing is also a good idea. The bath will loosen fur that was nearly ready to be shed, making the next brushing session more productive.
While your dog is in its shedding cycle, protect your furniture. Washable couch covers will make it easier to keep shed hair off your furniture – and anyone who sits on it. Simply wash the covers every few days during the shedding season. Providing your dog a bed of its own is another way to contain the fur. That, too, can be washed from time to time. A specialized vacuum cleaner, or vacuum cleaner attachment, is also a must have for dog owners. There are several brands available designed specifically to pull dog fur out of carpet and off of upholstery.
For people who simply cannot bear the mess and extra work of the shedding process, choosing a non-shedding breed is a good idea. These include poodles, shih tzus, silky terriers and lhasa apsos. It is a bit of a trade off, however. Because these breeds do not shed, their fur grows continually and they have higher grooming needs. Most non-shedding breeds will need to see a professional groomer every six weeks or so.
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