Ah, dog shedding... that time when your furry friend loses half its coat and your vacuum cleaner becomes your best friend. 😅

Nothing abnormal, I promise! Shedding is simply your dog's way of renewing its coat to adapt to changes in seasons and temperatures.

You'll notice this period when hair accumulates on their bed, the sofa, or your clothes. As long as the hair loss remains uniform and the skin is healthy, everything is fine: it's just nature doing its job.

When does a dog shed?

Generally, a dog sheds twice a year:

• In spring, they lose their thick winter coat for a lighter one

• In autumn, they prepare their beautiful winter fur

But beware: the duration and intensity vary depending on their breed, hair length, lifestyle (indoor or outdoor), and ambient temperature.

How long does a dog's shedding last?

The duration of shedding in dogs depends on several factors: breed, coat type, age, lifestyle, and even health. Generally, the following durations are observed:

• Short hair: approximately 2 to 3 weeks

• Medium-long hair: 3 to 4 weeks

• Long or double coat: up to 6 to 8 weeks

Dogs living indoors may shed for a longer or more extended period. As long as the dog's hair loss remains regular and the skin is healthy, there's nothing abnormal. However, if the loss is excessive or localized, it's best to consult a veterinarian.

How to help your dog while shedding?

The key to limiting hair in the house and maintaining a healthy coat is regular brushing! It's the most effective way to remove dead hair and stimulate regrowth.

For long or thick hair

Opt for a double-sided brush : one side for gentle detangling, the other for smoothing and shining the coat. This is the ideal solution for breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, Australian Shepherds, or Huskies, for example.

For short hair

A soft brush is sufficient for short-haired dogs like Dachshunds, for example. A quick daily brush removes dead hair without irritating the skin.

For an even healthier coat

Bathing: a real boost! Giving your dog a bath during this shedding period helps dead hair fall out more easily and promotes the regrowth of new hair.

You can therefore bathe your dog at home with the right equipment and, most importantly, a shampoo adapted to their coat, for example:

• A soothing anti-itch shampoo, perfect for sensitive and/or irritated skin
• A fortifying shampoo to promote regrowth
• A purifying shampoo that helps eliminate impurities while soothing the skin
  
• A massage brush for the shower to lather the shampoo, stimulate circulation, and help loosen dead hair

And for a complete routine, add a detangling conditioner to avoid knots (often more numerous during shedding), then finish with a nourishing oil all over the body to restore shine and softness to the coat.

You can find all natural care products here and choose the ones that best suit your dog.

Diet, a real plus for the coat

A healthy coat starts with the food bowl!

During shedding, your dog needs essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6) to strengthen the skin and coat.

At Muzon, we rely on natural supplements like salmon oil or other omega-3 enriched treats, because they directly provide the good lipids that the skin needs during this renewal period.

What about your home?

Even with a good routine, some hairs will inevitably end up on your sofa.

The secret: regularity. A few minutes of brushing every day, a washable dog bed, and you're all set.

In summary

Shedding is an unavoidable phase, but it can become a real moment of well-being if you support your dog with the right actions and products:

✔️ Brush your dog regularly
✔️ Bathe them with an adapted shampoo
✔️ Prioritize a natural diet
✔️ Maintain their skin with gentle and natural care