Thu Sep 26 15:03:11 UTC 2024: ## Excessive Shedding? Experts Reveal How to Minimize Dog Hair Around the House
**New York, NY** – Are you constantly battling a sea of dog hair in your home? Don’t despair! While shedding is a natural part of dog ownership, it can be managed. Forbes Vetted is launching a monthly series, “Pet Peeves,” tackling common pet-related challenges, starting with the age-old issue of shedding.
Experts, including Dr. Lisa Lippman, a veterinarian and director of virtual medicine at Bond Vet, and Richard Patton, an animal nutritionist, provide insights into normal shedding patterns and how to identify excessive shedding that could be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
“Normal shedding happens regularly and is often influenced by the season or the breed of the dog,” explains Dr. Lippman. While some dogs shed more heavily in spring and fall, certain breeds, like German shepherds and huskies, are naturally heavier shedders.
However, if you notice excessive shedding, patchy hair loss, or other symptoms like redness, bald spots, or skin irritation, it’s important to consult your veterinarian. These could signal allergies, hormonal imbalances, parasites, nutritional deficiencies, skin infections, stress, or even underlying medical conditions like kidney or liver issues.
“A balanced, high-quality diet is crucial for maintaining a healthy coat and minimizing excessive shedding,” advises Dr. Lippman. She recommends a diet tailored to your dog’s specific needs, including those with food sensitivities or allergies. Raw meat-based diets can also promote healthy skin and hair, notes Patton.
Supplements like fish oil or omega-3 fatty acids can also improve your dog’s coat health. However, Dr. Lippman stresses the importance of consulting your vet before adding any supplements, as shedding could be diet-related if the food doesn’t meet your dog’s nutritional needs.
Proper bathing can also help. Dr. Lippman suggests using shampoos with oatmeal, aloe, or omega fatty acids to reduce shedding and support skin health. Deshedding shampoos and conditioners can remove loose fur and soothe the skin.
To tackle the inevitable dog hair that accumulates in your home, investing in a high-quality vacuum cleaner is a wise choice. Forbes Vetted recommends the Dyson V15 Detect for top-tier performance and the Shark Navigator Powered Lift-Away NV352 for a budget-friendly option. An air purifier, such as the Levoit Core P350 Pet Air Purifier, can also reduce floating dog hair and allergens.
A good brush, like the Furminator deshedding tool, can remove excess fur before it spreads throughout your house. And don’t underestimate the power of a lint roller, especially the Evercare sticky roller, for quick touch-ups on clothing, furniture, and linens. Lastly, remember to wash your dog’s bedding regularly, especially those with removable covers for easy cleaning.
By understanding the reasons behind shedding, implementing proper diet and grooming practices, and using the right tools, you can keep your home free of excessive dog hair and enjoy a fur-free life with your beloved pet.
First Piper 