German Shepherd puppies shed more than older ones.
Their bodies are still developing and thus do not have the same levels of hormones as they are young.
As they age, their coats become thicker and less prone to shedding often.
What Causes Excessive Shedding in German Shepherds
Excessive shedding in German Shepherds can result from several different factors.
These include:
Skin Trauma
Skin trauma can cause hair loss or an itchy coat.
This occurs due to dog fights, harsh treatments, or even injuries sustained during play.
Skin trauma is usually temporary, and your German Shepherd will recover completely.
However, if the skin trauma is severe or persists for a long time, there may be permanent damage to the skin and hair follicles.
As a result, your dog may shed more.
Therefore, consult your vet immediately.
You can also take your dog to a groomer who specializes in grooming dogs with skin issues, such as eczema or hives.
Poor Nutrition
If your German Shepherd is not eating a balanced diet, they may become stressed out and begin to shed excessively.
A balanced diet includes all the nutrients your dog needs to stay healthy and perform well.
This way, their body will have what it needs to grow healthy hair and skin.
You may notice a change in your dog’s color over time after feeding them a poor diet.
A quality diet should include foods that are high in protein and carbohydrates and low in fat.
This will help keep your dog happy and energized throughout the day.
Health Issues
Health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, allergies, or parasites such as hookworms or fleas can also lead to excess shedding in German Shepherds.
Consult your veterinarian before trying home remedies such as diet changes, shampoos, and conditioners that may be harmful to your dog.
How to Reduce Shedding in German Shepherds
German Shepherds are known for their impressive fur coats.
However, this coat can get so matted that brushing it becomes difficult.
Yet, getting rid of shedding in German Shepherds is much easier than you might think.
Provide a Healthy Diet
A key cause of shedding in German Shepherds is poor nutrition.
Your dog’s diet should consist of high-quality meats and vegetables.
They should also have plenty of water and exercise.
Feed your dog high-quality food that will provide all the nutrients and vitamins they need.
A quality diet helps them shed less.
Additionally, if your dog is not getting enough of certain nutrients, they won’t produce enough oils to keep their coat looking shiny and healthy.
Don’t forget to give them treats.
If you’re unsure what food to feed your dog, talk to your veterinarian about what’s best for their health.
Brush Their Coat Regularly
German Shepherds need daily brushing to remove dead skin cells.
Brush your dog’s coat with a soft brush or comb designed for this purpose.
Use the Right Grooming Tools
Groom German Shepherd dogs with tools invented specifically for them so they always look their best.
For instance, use shampoos and conditioners meant for such dog breeds during baths.
Brush your dog’s coat regularly with a soft brush or comb with long teeth.
Moreover, comb the fur from top to bottom and back at least once a week.
This will help reduce shedding even more.
Bathe them Occasionally
Bathing your German Shepherd helps reduce the amount of hair that falls out when they are brushed.
Ensure you bathe them every 8-10 weeks to keep them clean and healthy.
This way, their shedding will reduce in the long run as well.
Bathing them helps get rid of dead hair and dander that have accumulated on their coats over time.
In addition, it eliminates dead skin cells that build up over time, which could lead to more shedding than usual.
When Do German Shepherds Shed?
Shedding occurs all year round in German Shepherds. Spring and summer are the most common times for shedding. German Shepherds replace their coats with thicker ones that can protect them against cold during the long winter days. Many of them will shed less frequently between 4 and 6 months old, then again at year intervals and usually in waves. German Shepherds are prone to shedding, especially when they are introduced to new environments or go through a transitional period. So, don’t fret if you find fur everywhere in your house. Shedding is a positive sign that your dog is healthy, in good body condition, and has enough energy to deal with the extra hair around them.
Hi, my name is Megan Turner and I have worked in a dog’s shelter for four years now. It is truly my dream job, and I see hundreds of dogs every month being united with new owners to give them a loving forever home.
Unfortunately, handicapped dogs are much more likely to be ignored when a family is picking out their new pet. Handicapped pets need more care than non-handicapped pets, so it is understandable why they are often harder to rehome.
