Pet hair all over your clothes, all over your home, everywhere actually, can be quite annoying. Is there anything you can do to prevent this from happening?
To put it very simply, all dogs have three types of hair: a soft downy undercoat that is especially abundant in northern breeds but also exists in breeds that were developed in cool or cold climates; stiffer and often longer guard hairs that form a protective layer to protect undercoat and skin from harsh weather and cold water; and whiskers, those specialized hairs that grow in clumps on the face.
All dog hair grows in cycles. When it reaches a certain length determined by the individual dog's genetic makeup, it stops growing, then dies. That's when shedding begins. Dogs that require regular 'hair cuts' or a full grooming such as poodles, their hair never stops growing. That is one reason why they are considered a nonshedding breed, or hypoallergenic breed. Another reason is because they produce a lot less 'pet dander' which are dead skin cells sloughed off by the shedding hair.
A dog may be slightly uncomfortable during shedding as the dead hairs and the dead skin cells can cause the skin to itch. Owners can help relieve that slight discomfort by brushing the coat which will also help keep down the amount of hair shed throughout the home.
Shedding appears to be connected to how the seasons run, but it is actually goes by how long the days run. Dogs that live outside usually shed heavily as days lengthen into spring, but those that live mostly indoors often seem to shed at least a bit all year long. Loss of the winter undercoat helps the dog stay cooler in warm, humid weather, a necessity for an animal whose only sweat glands are in the pads of his paws. Female dogs often drop their coats after a heat cycle or after whelping and most dogs will also shed after undergoing anesthesia.
It is important to research the different breeds and their coats, and decide which kind of breed of dog will work for you and your home and the coat your dog will have before you bring him or her home. Also check into what you are looking at as far as upkeep with grooming, not only to help them stay clean and happy and healthy, but also to keep you from getting frustrated and aggravated.
Also, a little known fact about dogs, but something to stop and think about and to take into serious consideration - no matter what color or type coat your dog may have, the condition of the dog's hair mirrors the general state of the dog's health. Thyroid problems, insufficient dietary fats, poor nutrition, hormone imbalances, seborrhea, ringworm, pore infections, hot spots, inhalant allergies, and external parasites can directly or indirectly affect hair health and growth.
Coat condition is, therefore, as important to monitor as appetite, behavior, and temperature when assessing your dog's well-being. A dull, dry, brittle, or greasy coat is a clue to the internal workings of every dog's system. Keep an eye on it - remember, they too, are important in the family and deserve to have the best of care.
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