Why is My German Shepherd Shedding So Much? Discover the Surprising Reasons
Largely due to the double coats, the German Shepherds will shed throughout the year, although, there will be heavy shedding during the periods of spring and autumn. This blowing of the coat is typical as they set for them the new temperatures of the next or coming season. However, if shedding seem to go beyond such periods, then such might point to other problems that needs to be addressed.
Understanding German Shepherd Shedding
German Shepherds have a special type of coat, which is a double coat proving an undercoat and something tougher as the outer coat. This double coat is necessary for their protection and warmth, nevertheless, they are heavy-shedders. Typically, German Shepherds go through two major shedding periods each year: especially in the spring and in the fall. They do this during these periods commonly known as the blowing of coat since they lose their undercoat with the expectation of the next change in temperatures. They drop off one coat to grow another in spring and lose their summer coat and grow a heavier one in fall.
In its genetics, German Shepherds are Forecast to shed more than some of the other types of dogs. From where they were bred as working dogs in different weather conditions they have evolved to a double layer coat. Due to this genetic factor, the Shar Peis become heavy shedders in any climate and season they are in. Such a knowledge enables the owners to prepare for this process by the German Shepherd and keep their dog free from health issues throughout the year.
Common Reasons for Excessive Shedding
Diet and Nutrition
Maintaining a proper diet is one of the most important factors affecting the coat of German Shepherds. Bad diet will result to increased shedding as the dog’s body will be unable to support the health of the skin and coat. Feeding German Shepherd foods with essentials nutrients including omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals should be priorities since it can help them reduce on shedding.
Health Issues
The following are some of the health issues that can lead to excessive shedding on a German Shepherd. But dietary allergies also compounded with other issues such as environmental allergies affect the skin and cause skin flare-ups leading to additional hair shedding. Flea and mite infestation as well as bacterial or fungal infection of the skin also leads to fur loss due to the inflammation of the skin by your dogs immune system response. Hormonal factors such as thyroid diseases are also well-known causes; they prevent the normal shedding and hairs are lost faster than they should.
Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety can also be blamed of excessive shedding in German Shepherds. Stressors like changes in their schedule, noise, or if they are separated from their owner, can directly affect their wellbeing and thus their skin and coat. There are several stressors that have been known to cause shedding and avoiding or minimizing these stressors would help in managing it.
Improper Grooming
Bathing and brushing of these dogs is recommended to try and reduce shedding in the German Shepherd breed. Infrequent grooming means loose fur can build up on the cat’s body and therefore when shedding, a lot of hair is produced. It is also deleterious to use improper grooming tools as they can either be ineffectual or actually do more harm as they are unable to efficiently shed the undercoat and further worsen shed problems.
Environmental Factors
These aspects like, dry air and insufficient humidity can have adverse effects on the skin of a German Shepherd which result in shedding. Also, she stated that it is also normal to lose more hair after the skin and coat is stressed by exposure to extremely hot or freezing conditions. It is also important to maintain the necessary conditions of the apartment, excluding both high humidity and the opposite, that is, low temperatures will also contribute to the shed.
Tips to Manage and Reduce Shedding
Regular Grooming
Clothing care is critical when it comes to the handling and cutting of shedding in German Herders. Batting your dog several time a week not only eliminates the loose fur but prevents it from interfering with infrastructure of the house. The suggestions are as follows: Using a proper slicker brush or an undercoat rake designed for the German Shepherd to that can help pull out the double layer of hair. Daily hair brushing helps in cutting down on shedding and at the same time massaging the skin and coat help in spreading the natural oils.
Balanced Diet
Diet also has a critical influence on one’s coat condition and the frequency of shedding. Premium unevaluated dog foods with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are recommended because these nutrients enhance skin and lessen the rate of shedding. Furthermore, it is good to make sure that it drinks plenty of water since lack of water leads to dry skin, thus causing more shedding.
Regular Vet Check-ups
You should also get your German Shepherd for a vet check up every once in a while with a purpose of examining him/her and determining any other sickness that may lead to abnormal hair shedding. There may be other medical conditions such as allergies, skin infection, and hormonal imbalances that cause shedding and your vet should advise on this. Other tactics for dealing with shedding can also include talking to your vet about any supplements for the pet, like fish or other supplements for better coat.
Reducing Stress
Another prescription one can give to manage shedding is to lower stress. To eliminate or reduce German Shepherd anxiety and the subsequent shedding of hair, it is wise to identify and provide your dog with a stable and comfortable space. Fewer stress-bolded dogs are happy and healthy dogs – that means bones for thought and activity, ruffs for exercise, and toys that you enjoy.
Environmental Control
Another element that can also control shedding is the environment Talia, Tressa, Debra, and Maryann are some of the contestants that can exemplify how environment can influence the amount of shedding that occurs. In regions with low humidity, the use of humidifiers decreases your dogs’ skin getting dry and as a result sheds little fur. Thirdly, using of animal jackets and avoiding keeping the German Shepherd in the balcony or outside when it is very cold or very hot for that matter will help reduce stress to its skin and as a result reduce the rate of shedding.
Common Myths about German Shepherd Shedding
Myth 1: Shaving the Coat Reduces Shedding
This is a misunderstanding which many people hold; they believe that shaving a German Shepherd’s coat will help in minimizing shedding. Actually, having one’s skin close-shaven decreases the ability of a dog to regulate its body temperature plus it will be vulnerable to the scorching sun and a number of other elements. Dog owners shave their dogs for various reasons, but that is not advisable for a German Shepherd since it has a double coat for a reason. It also has to be understood that shaving does not cease hair shedding; the hair just grows a little shorter before it is shed off.
Myth 2: Special Shampoos Can Stop Shedding Completely
Other myths are that one is able to bath a German Shepherd and after doing this, the dog will not shed any more by using special shampoos. Though there are shampoos that are known to promote coat health and minimize the shedding somewhat, they do not fully prevent the process. A healthy diet and a simple examination by a vet would recommend correct nourishment should they be advice as proper ways of managing shedding.
Myth 3: Shedding Means Poor Health
Some people having a bad experience, they conclude that loose hair is always an indication of bad health. It is, however, important to note that this breed is an average to heavy shedder caused by their having double layer coats. It is common for canines to shed their fur frequently, or maybe in some certain seasons of the year. Likewise, only when sloughing is coupled with such signs as itching or hair loss, the cat should be taken to a vet.
Myth 4: All German Shepherds Shed the Same Amount
It is also a common belief that all German Shepherds shed the same amount. In reality, the amount of shedding can vary widely from one dog to another based on factors such as genetics, diet, health, and environmental conditions. Some German Shepherds may shed more heavily than others, even within the same breed.
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By understanding and debunking these common myths, German Shepherd owners can better manage their dogs' shedding and provide the care needed to maintain a healthy coat.
Conclusion
In summary, shedding is a natural part of owning a German Shepherd due to their double coat and seasonal shedding cycles. While they are genetically predisposed to shed more than some other breeds, excessive shedding can often be managed with the right approach. Ensuring a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, regular grooming with the proper tools, and maintaining a stress-free environment are all crucial steps. Additionally, controlling environmental factors like humidity and temperature can further help reduce shedding.
Regular vet check-ups are essential for addressing any underlying health issues that may contribute to excessive shedding. By debunking common myths and taking a proactive approach to care, German Shepherd owners can keep their dogs healthy and their shedding under control. Remember, while shedding is normal, effective management strategies can make it much more manageable.