How to Blow the Coat After Whelping

Many dogs will experience full or partial hair loss after whelping. This process is called blowing coat and it typically happens one to two months after the puppies have been born. Blowing coat after whelping is caused by a hormonal shift in the dog's body that alerts the hair follicles to shed the hair. Hair loss generally begins in the lumbar region and on the flanks and ribcage. Hair will begin to regrow within one to two months. Though blowing the coat after whelping happens naturally, you can aid your dog in this process by caring for her skin and fur.

Things You'll Need

  • Undercoat comb
  • Pin brush
  • Dog vitamin supplement
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take your dog to the veterinarian when she begins blowing coat. Though blowing coats after whelping is fairly common, the doctor will do a scrape test to make sure there is not a more severe underlying cause, such as a hormone deficiency or skin disease.

    • 2

      Brush the dog's coat at least twice a week while she's blowing it. Use an under coat brush to comb the areas around her stomach and a pin brush to remove the outer hair of her coat. This can make her feel more comfortable and prevent the hair from collecting around your house.

    • 3

      Monitor the exposed skin for signs of infection or irritation, such as redness, swelling or broken skin, or if your dog continually itches the skin. If this happens, take your dog to a veterinarian to prevent further infection.

    • 4

      Feed your dog foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as biotin, iron, potassium and sodium, or provide them with a nutritional supplement. These vitamins and minerals help prevent skin disease and promote healthy coat regrowth.

    • 5

      Monitor hair regrowth in the months that follow blowing the coat. If the hair does not begin to visibly grow back within two to four months after blowing the coat, consult your veterinarian. Full regrowth may take up to two years.