If it suddenly looks like a second dog is living in your carpet, shedding season has probably arrived. Shedding is completely natural: it's how dogs get rid of old or damaged hair and keep their coats healthy, explains the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Why shedding peaks twice a year
Changes in daylight and temperature trigger seasonal coat changes. According to the AKC:
- Spring: dogs drop their thick winter coat to stay cool.
- Fall: they shed lighter hair to make room for warmer insulation.
A shedding season usually lasts from a few weeks to a couple of months. Dogs with dense double coats, like Golden Retrievers and Huskies, can shed all year round.
How often should you brush?
It depends on your dog's coat. The AKC notes that heavy shedders may need brushing several times a week, or even daily, during peak shedding. Lighter shedders still benefit from regular grooming to remove loose hair and spread natural skin oils.
Choosing the right tool
- Short coats (Beagles, Pugs, Labradors): the AKC suggests natural-bristle brushes or grooming gloves.
- Long or double coats (Collies, Pomeranians, Huskies): a slicker brush reaches dense undercoat. Work out tangles gently first.
Many owners combine the two: a slicker brush for a deeper weekly groom, and a pet hair removal glove for quick daily touch-ups that feel like petting.
Our shedding-season routine
- Groom outside or on an easy-to-clean mat.
- Brush in the direction of the coat with gentle strokes.
- Finish with the glove to collect the last loose hairs.
- Do a quick pass over the couch and rugs before fur gets ground in.
Brush, de-fur and trim in one sitting
The Groom & Clean Kit pairs our self-cleaning slicker brush with the hair removal glove and a quiet nail grinder.
See the Groom & Clean KitWhen shedding isn't normal
The AKC warns that shedding may be excessive if you notice bald patches, thinning fur or irritated skin. Allergies, hormonal conditions such as hypothyroidism and other health problems can affect the coat, so check in with your veterinarian if you see these signs.
Sources
This article is general information only and isn't a substitute for advice from your veterinarian.