Labradors & Hair Shedding

Labrador retrievers are ideal pets for physically active families, and they make good hunting dogs as well. The breed can be trained easily and has a sweet and patient temperament, making it a preferred pet for many families. Labradors have a water-resistant double coat that requires regular maintenance, especially when shedding starts.

  1. Hair Shedding

    • Labradors shed hair during the spring and fall. When your Lab begins shedding its coat, remove the excess hair as soon as possible. Wet your pet's coat with warm water, soaking the coat completely. Run your fingers through the coat to loosen the dead hair. As the hair gets loose, wash it off with water. Blow dry the coat to get rid of the remaining loose and dead hair. You can brush the hair in the opposite direction of the growth while blow drying to help ease the removal process.

    Brushing

    • Brushing is an important grooming routine to keep hair shedding minimal. Use an undercoat rake to remove the dead hair. Use a wide-toothed comb to remove any mats and knots in the fur. Finally, run a narrow-toothed comb through the coat, especially around the ears and neck, the tail and the dog's hindquarters. This will help to dislodge dead hair that you missed earlier.

    Parasites

    • Check your Labrador regularly for fleas, because infestation can result in hair shedding. Many Labs are allergic to flea bites and this causes their hair to fall out in clumps. Use appropriate flea control measures to prevent hair shedding.

    Bathing

    • In summer, your Labrador will lose its thick undercoat. Bathe it once a month, using a dog shampoo with conditioner, to keep the coat shiny and glossy. This will also help to wash off the dead hair and reduce shedding.

    Shaving

    • Shaving is not a solution for hair shedding. You should shave your Labrador only if it is undergoing surgery or has a hot spot. Usually in both cases a veterinarian will shave the necessary area. Shaving removes the undercoat, which is necessary to keep your pet cool in summer. Even after shaving, your Labrador will continue shedding its undercoat, which will be prickly instead of the normal soft and fluffy undercoat.

    Consulting a Veterinarian

    • If your Labrador develops bald spots or sheds too much hair, this could indicate a medical problem. Consult a vet in these circumstances. This type of hair loss can signal skin infections, ringworm or stress.