Shedding is a natural part of a dog’s life, but excessive hair loss can become frustrating for pet parents and may indicate an underlying issue. While all dogs shed to some degree, factors like poor nutrition, allergies, stress, or skin conditions can contribute to an increase in shedding. Maintaining a healthy coat starts from within, and the right nutrients can make all the difference in keeping your dog’s fur strong and reducing unnecessary hair loss.
A well-balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals plays a crucial role in coat health. Some ingredients are particularly beneficial for strengthening hair follicles, improving skin hydration, and reducing excessive shedding. By making simple dietary adjustments, you can support your dog’s overall health while keeping their coat looking its best.
If shedding has become overwhelming, incorporating the right ingredients into your dog’s diet may help minimize loose fur and promote a healthier, shinier coat.
What Is Causing My Dog to Shed So Much?
While there are many possible root causes for heavy shedding, diet is often the main culprit. Despite the convenience of commercial dog food kibble, one of its major drawbacks is its inability to retain the quality and potency of a vital nutrient: Omega-3 Fatty Acids.
Known as essential fatty acids, a dog’s body is unable to produce Omega-3 and Omega-6 fats, and therefore, they must be obtained through their diet (hence the name essential).
In recent years, science has begun to understand the myriad benefits of essential fatty acids. According to Dr. Steve Marsden, DVM, writing for VCA, “Fatty acid supplements can reduce shedding, promote growth of the undercoat, reduce tendencies to inflammation, and help resolve inflammation.”
But Doesn’t My Dog’s Food Contain Omega Fatty Acids?
While many dog foods claim to contain Omega fatty acids, they often cannot survive the tremendous heat and pressure required to produce dog food kibble and are not biologically available to your dog.
Even if they do survive manufacturing, they have the tendency to become rancid in the dog’s food before they are consumed. For this reason, many turn to other options besides commercial dog food for supplementing their dog’s needs.
Easy Ways to Integrate Omega Fatty Acids Into Your Dog’s Diet
Adding fresh fish to your dog’s diet is a fantastic way to boost its intake of high-quality omega fatty acids. Many veterinarians recommend adding fish 2-3 times per week.
Another option growing in popularity is switching to a raw diet or prey model diet.
Some owners find adding fresh fish or raw foods time-consuming and expensive, so omega fatty acid supplements have grown in popularity in recent years.
What Makes a Good Omega or Fish Oil Supplement?
One of the most popular supplements for many dog owners is pure salmon oil. While salmon oil has its benefits, we tend to lean towards fish sources lower on the food chain (like krill or anchovies) and are, therefore, less prone to the accumulation of heavy metals like mercury in fish.
Many pet owners are also turning to omega-soft chews due to their palatability and the ability to supplement other nutrients that also benefit the skin and coat.
In addition to diet, there are many other methods of controlling your dog’s shedding. Be sure to brush your dog regularly, bathe it enough (but not too much), and use flea prevention.
Remember, shedding in itself is not a health problem, but excessive shedding might be a sign of more serious issues. Be sure to consult your vet about your dog’s shedding issues. Other issues may be present, such as high stress, immune problems, hormonal imbalances, fungal infections, or parasites.
Learn More About Supplementing Your Dog’s Diet with Our Happy, Healthy Omega-3 Select Soft Chews
Our Omega 3-6-9 Select Soft Chews are formulated with krill meal. Krill are at the bottom of the food chain and are much less likely to have toxins than fish higher up on the food chain. Krill meal is packed with omega fatty acids, and dogs LOVE the flavor!
Support a Healthier Coat from the Inside Out
Excessive shedding can be a challenge, but with the right nutrition, you can help your dog maintain a strong, healthy coat. A diet rich in essential nutrients supports skin and hair health while reducing the amount of loose fur around your home.
If your dog’s shedding seems excessive or is accompanied by other symptoms like itching or bald patches, consulting your veterinarian can help identify any underlying concerns. By making simple changes to your dog’s diet, you can keep their coat in top condition and enjoy a cleaner, healthier home.
Toledo, United States.
