Why Do Dogs Shed Their Fur?

According to Dog Breed Information, shedding is the natural loss of hair in dogs that allows the new hair to come in. Shedding can be a factor in how a person with sensitivities to animal dander reacts to the dog, and learning more about shedding and why it happens can help you decide what dog breed you might be interested in.

  1. Function

    • Even dogs which are considered hypoallergenic will shed. It is a normal process where the dog releases damaged hair and allows it to be replaced with a new, healthy coat. Factors for damage include environmental factors, dyes and shampoos, which make the coat look dull and limp. Shedding often gives a dog a much sleeker, healthier appearance.

    Phases

    • Dog hair goes through four phases of growth. Anagen is the phase where the new hair is actively growing. During the catagen phase, the hair stops growing and the outer root sheath attaches to the hair, anchoring it in place. During the telogen phase, the hair rests and is not growing, and during the exogen phase, the hair falls out. At this point, the hair follicle begins the anogen phase again.

    Time Frame

    • After a cold period, the warm months will cause the dog to enter a period of extended shedding. The warmth triggers the hair follicles and causes them to release the heavier winter coat. This is known as the dog blowing its coat, and it allows the dog to be much more comfortable during the warmer months.

    Considerations

    • While dogs that are light shedders can be ideal for people who have allergies to animal dander, they also have different coat care requirements. Dogs like poodles and Yorkshire terriers shed more slowly than other breeds, but this gives their fur a higher chance of matting. Matting can lead to conditions like sores and blisters and to avoid this, professional grooming, where the fur is clipped, is important to the dog's health.

    Health Issues

    • There are also some health issues that can cause intensive shedding in dogs. Allergies, skin infections and a poor diet can all lead to a dog shedding its hair. If a dog is losing its fur, this is not merely a sign that the dog is aging. Take the dog to the veterinarian to see what the problem might be.