Excessive Shedding in Dogs: Causes, Diet and the Role of Omega Fatty Acids
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Dog hairs shedding everywhere is one of the less appealing aspects of being a dog parent. For dogs that shed regularly and excessively, it can become a major task simply staying on top of their grooming regimen, let alone vacuuming the seemingly never-ending fur plastered over every inch of floor and upholstery.
Shedding, however, is a normal part of most dogs’ lives. Their fur, whether thick or thin, long or short, helps protect their skin and regulate their body temperature.
But when they shed excessively, as well as being frustrating and time-consuming, it can potentially point to underlying concerns.
While long-haired dogs are thought to shed more, it’s actually short-haired dogs with denser coats that tend to shed the most. Determining your dog’s baseline shedding pattern early on is key to identifying when it becomes excessive.
We spoke to Dr. Bernadine Cruz, DVM, from pawTree, which in addition to its range of dog food offers an array of supplements designed specifically for dogs.
What Causes Excessive Shedding?
There are several common causes of excessive shedding in dogs:
- Poor Nutrition: “Deficiencies in essential nutrients, particularly Omega-3 fatty acids, can lead to a dull, itchy coat and increased fur loss,” says Dr. Cruz.
- Seasonal Shedding: “Some dogs shed more during seasonal transitions as they prepare for temperature changes.”
- Stress: “Anxiety or environmental changes can contribute to excess shedding.”
- Underlying Health Issues: “Conditions such as allergies, infections, or hormonal imbalances may cause your dog to shed excessively.”
The Role of Omega Fatty Acids in Reducing Shedding
Expanding on her previous nutrition-related point, Dr. Cruz explains that while some shedding is normal, poor nutrition — specifically related to Omega fatty acids — is often the root cause of excessive fur loss. “Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for reducing skin inflammation and restoring a healthy coat,” she says.
She recommends looking for wild-caught fish oils in dog food supplements, as “they provide a bioavailable source of these nutrients for optimal results”.
Your dog’s body cannot produce Omega fatty acids on its own, making it essential to include them in their food. These “good fats” are critical for maintaining a healthy coat and helping to reduce shedding.
Why Omega-3 and Omega-6 Matter
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: “Found in fresh fish and seaweed, these fatty acids are anti-inflammatory and help support a shiny coat, healthy skin, and overall well-being,” says Dr. Cruz.
- Omega-6 Fatty Acids: “Present in vegetable oils. Omega-6 fatty acids are pro-inflammatory.”
“Unfortunately, many commercial diets are disproportionately high in Omega-6 fatty acids, which can contribute to a pro-inflammatory diet, leading to increased shedding,” adds Dr. Cruz.
Increasing the amount of good oils in your dog’s diet restores the balance and supports overall optimum health for a dog.
“By incorporating a diet that includes beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids — such as pawTree’s Wild Alaskan Salmon & Pollock Oil — you can help to enhance coat quality and reduce shedding,” says Dr. Cruz.
Final word
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