The amount of hair shed by dogs varies with the breed. While the breeds like German Shepherds and Akita are active shedders, Bolognese, Border, and Terrier are not known for shedding frequently.

However, if you notice that your dog has been shedding excessively against the normal shedding frequency pertinent to its breed, the scenario may indicate undiagnosed health issues. 

It is literally impossible to prevent excessive shedding suddenly or all together, however, there are preventive measures that can be used to reduce excessive shedding in dogs to a great extent. Consider the below given proven tips to control excessive dog shedding.

Excessive shedding in dogs is due to all or any of these causes: Poor nutrition, stress or any other medical issues.

Quality Diet

High-quality meat-rich food is proven to be effective when it comes to preventing excessive shedding in dogs. These foods are known to be a tad expensive than their cheaper counterparts, which are often dominated by fillers or cheaper ingredients such as corn or grains. Inexpensive dog diets are hard to digest and can trigger digestive health concerns. 

The quality meat-rich food are easily digested and absorbed by the dog’s digestive system. This prevents dry skin and hence regulates excessive dog shedding.

Including olive oil in your dog’s food is another means to ensure that the hair stays healthy. Foods rich in fatty acids like salmon, tuna, etc are perfect for controlling shedding in dogs. Experiment with different types of these diets and choose one or all that suits your dog’s appetite.

Regulate stress

A stressed-out dog characterizes symptoms like excessive shedding, sleeping, isolation, separation anxiety, diarrhea, etc. Trying to de-stress your dog can be an ideal means to prevent excessive shedding.

Earmark some time to exercise or play with your dog, ensure that you take him for long walks, give him a free space that creates a sense of security, especially in scenarios like thunderstorms or your absence. Spend time with your dog when you are at home and make sure that he spends less time alone.

Medical Issues

Allergies, flea, and parasites are common medical causes of excessive dog shedding. Dirty skin can often create allergy which in turn can cause itchiness. The excessive scratching due to itchiness can catalyze dander formation, which leads to additional hair loss.

Therefore, ensure that your dog is groomed well and bathed at least once a month. Fleas and parasites can also cause excessive shedding in dogs; you need to take your dog to a professional veterinarian to alleviate such concerns.  A professional opinion might be needed to fight against parasites since the damage that a parasite can inflict may vary with respect to your dog’s dieting pattern, breed, etc.

Increase water intake

 Decreased water intake can also cause excessive shedding in dogs. Whenever your dog is shedding than the normal frequency, start keeping an eye out for his water bowl. It is recommended that a dog consumes an ounce of water per pound of his body weight per day.

Regular brushing

Brush your dog regularly to remove dead hair for her coat and to prevent excessive shedding all-around your household. You can stick to a brushing frequency of once per month in the nonshedding season to once per day in the shedding season.

Once you notice that your dog is shedding hair excessively, keep a close eye on him for a couple of weeks and ensure that you practice all the above-mentioned tips to control excessive dog shedding. Do not hesitate to take your dog to a reputed veterinary clinic in case you find extreme symptoms like thinning of coat, bald spots, and repetitive scratching.