If you are constantly sweeping tufts of fur off the floor and asking yourself why your dog is shedding so much, you are not alone. All dogs shed, but when the hair loss becomes heavier than usual, it is normal to worry.
Sometimes it is simply a seasonal change, but other times it can be a sign that your dog needs a diet change, medical check, or grooming upgrade.
This guide walks you through the most common reasons for excessive dog shedding, how to tell what’s normal, and what you can do at home to help your dog feel better and shed less.
How Normal Dog Shedding Works
Every dog has a natural hair growth cycle. Old or damaged hairs fall out, and new ones grow in. Dog breeds with double coats, like Huskies, German Shepherds, Labs, and Golden Retrievers, shed more because they have both a soft undercoat and a protective topcoat.
A bit of daily shedding is entirely normal. What’s not normal is when your dog sheds all year round, loses hair in patches, or their coat starts to look thin or dull.
If you’re comparing your dog to others, remember that shedding varies a lot. Short-haired dogs can shed just as much as fluffy breeds. It’s just more noticeable with larger or double-coated dogs.
Heavy Shedding Seasons: Spring and Fall Coat Blows
Most dogs have two big shedding seasons:
- Spring: Ditching the thick winter undercoat
- Fall: Growing in a heavier coat for winter
Temperature and the number of daylight hours trigger these changes. Indoor dogs with artificial light and steady heat can shed year-round rather than in large seasonal bursts. If your dog spends most of its time indoors, a little shedding is normal.
Cause #1: Poor Diet or Nutrient Deficiencies
A dog’s diet has a huge impact on their skin and coat health. Low-quality food or an unbalanced homemade diet may lack essential nutrients, leading to a dry, brittle coat and increased shedding.
A few common nutritional issues include:
- Not enough Omega-3 fatty acids
- Low-quality protein or insufficient protein
- Lack of vitamins A, E, or B-complex
- Food sensitivities are causing irritation
Dogs need good fats, quality protein, and proper mineral balance to maintain a strong, glossy coat. If your dog is shedding too much and also has flaky skin or a dull coat, diet might be the first place to look.
Quick fix
Switch to a high-quality food with named meat proteins and healthy fats. Adding omega-3 or salmon oil can make a noticeable difference within a few weeks.
Cause #2: Allergies (Food or Environmental)
Allergies are one of the most common causes of excessive dog shedding. They can come from food, pollen, grass, dust, mold, or even certain fabrics.
Dogs often show allergy symptoms through their skin, rather than through sneezing, as humans do.
Signs of allergies
- Itching and constant scratching
- Red or inflamed skin
- Hair thinning around paws, belly, or tail
- Excess licking
- Ear infections
Food allergies typically involve proteins like chicken, beef, or dairy. Environmental allergies appear seasonally, though indoor allergens can cause year-round shedding.
Quick fix
A vet may recommend a hypoallergenic diet trial, allergy medication, or skin supplements. Regular bathing with a gentle, oatmeal-based shampoo can also ease irritation.
Cause #3: Stress or Anxiety
Dogs shed more when stressed. This is the same automatic response humans have when stress hormones rise.
Common stress triggers
- Loud noises (like fireworks or storms)
- Moving to a new home
- New pets or family members
- Changes in routine
- Being left alone too long
Short-term stress shedding happens fast. You might notice hair falling out during a vet visit, mobile dog grooming session, or car ride. Chronic stress, however, can lead to ongoing excessive shedding.
Quick fix
Identify the cause and work on reducing it. More exercise, enrichment toys, calming chews, or training can help anxious dogs feel more secure.
Cause #4: Parasites (Fleas, Ticks, Mites)
Fleas, ticks, and mites irritate the skin, causing itching, inflammation, and hair loss. Even a minor flea problem can lead to significant shedding because dogs scratch and bite at their skin.
Mites (such as those causing mange) often cause patchy hair loss, scabs, and redness.
Quick fix
Check your dog’s coat regularly and use a reliable flea and tick preventive. If you notice bald patches, scabs, or intense itching, your vet can run a skin scraping test to identify mites or infections.
Cause #5: Skin Conditions or Infections
Anything that damages the skin will also affect the coat. Skin infections, fungal issues like ringworm, dry skin, and dermatitis can all cause hair to fall out more than usual.
Common signs
- Dandruff or flakes
- Red or irritated areas
- Hot spots
- Bad smell
- Patches of missing fur
Some dogs also develop contact dermatitis from shampoos, detergents, or grooming products.
Quick fix
A vet exam is usually the safest route. Treatment may include medicated shampoos, antifungals, or antibiotics. At home, avoid over-bathing and use mild, dog-safe products.
Cause #6: Hormonal or Medical Issues
When shedding becomes excessive, and nothing else seems to explain it, underlying medical conditions could be the cause.
Common medical triggers
- Thyroid disease (hypothyroidism)
- Cushing’s disease
- Hormonal imbalances
- Autoimmune disorders
- Pregnancy or lactation changes
These conditions often affect the coat’s texture, causing thinning, dullness, or slow regrowth.
Quick fix
Your vet can run simple blood tests to check hormone levels and organ function. Treating the underlying issue usually improves shedding over time.
Cause #7: Improper Grooming or Lack of Grooming
Some dogs shed excessively simply because loose hair isn’t being brushed out regularly. This is especially true for thick or double-coated breeds.
If loose fur stays trapped in the coat, it builds up until it starts falling out in clumps around your home.
Helpful grooming tips
- Brush daily during heavy shedding seasons.
- Use the right tools: de-shedding brushes, undercoat rakes, or slicker brushes.
- Avoid shaving double-coated dogs; their coat protects them year-round.
- Bathe every 4–6 weeks with a gentle shampoo.
Quick fix
Set a consistent grooming routine. Removing loose hair before it falls out makes your home cleaner and reduces matting and skin irritation.
Cause #8: Age and Life Stage Changes
Dogs shed differently depending on their age. Puppies go through a “puppy coat blow” where soft baby fur is replaced by adult fur. Seniors may shed more due to slower cell turnover, weaker hair follicles, and underlying health changes.
If an older dog is shedding too much, losing weight, slowing down, or acting differently, it’s wise to get a complete vet exam.
Quick At-Home Solutions to Reduce Excessive Shedding
Even if your dog sheds more than average, you can still reduce how much fur ends up on your furniture. Try combining several of these suggestions for the best results.
1. Upgrade the diet
Look for foods with real meat proteins, healthy fats, and minimal fillers. Omega-3 supplements (such as fish or salmon oil) help strengthen the coat and reduce dryness.
2. Groom regularly
Aim to brush a few times a week, or daily during shedding seasons. Use tools designed for your dog’s coat type.
3. Bathe with care
Over-bathing can dry the skin. Use a moisturizing, dog-friendly shampoo every month or as directed.
4. Keep your dog hydrated
Not drinking enough water can lead to dry skin and shedding. Make sure fresh water is available all day.
5. Manage allergies
Regular cleaning, hypoallergenic wipes, or allergy-friendly diets can make a major difference.
6. Control parasites
Use monthly flea and tick preventatives and keep bedding clean.
7. Reduce stress
More playtime, routines, calming tools, and mental stimulation help anxious dogs relax and shed less.
When You Should See a Veterinarian
Some shedding is normal, but these are sure signs that it’s time for a vet visit:
- Bald patches
- Red or inflamed skin
- Constant scratching or licking
- Sores, scabs, or a strong odor
- Sudden coat thinning
- Shedding combined with weight gain or loss
- Lethargy, appetite changes, or drinking more than usual
A vet can diagnose medical problems early, rule out parasites, and recommend treatment that keeps your dog healthy and comfortable.
Final Tips for Living With a Heavy-Shedding Dog
A dog that sheds a lot isn’t necessarily unhealthy, but they do need consistent care. A balanced diet, routine brushing, a calm environment, and regular vet checks go a long way toward managing shedding.
If you’ve been wondering why your dog is shedding so much, the answer is usually one of these common causes.
Ready for a healthier, less hair-covered home? If your dog’s shedding still feels overwhelming or you’d like tailored guidance, get in touch with us today, and we’ll help you sort it out.
