What should I do if my dog is shedding too much? | arlo.® Atlas
Share This Guide
Read time: 3 minutes
Overview
If your dog is shedding too much, start by checking whether it’s just a normal coat change or something linked to skin, coat or health changes. Some dogs shed heavily at certain times of year, while others may shed more because of grooming, diet, stress, parasites or skin irritation.
If the shedding is new, heavy or comes with other signs, it’s worth looking a bit closer. You can often spot useful clues at home before deciding whether to contact your vet.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the shedding is seasonal or has started suddenly outside your dog’s usual pattern.
2. Look closely for redness, flaky skin, scabs, bald patches, dandruff or sores.
3. Run your hands through the coat to see whether the fur feels dry, greasy, brittle or knotty.
4. Check for scratching, licking, chewing, rubbing or restlessness, as these can point to irritation.
5. Look for signs of fleas or other parasites, especially around the tail base, belly and neck.
6. Think about any recent changes in food, washing routine, grooming, bedding or home environment.
7. Notice whether your dog seems well in themselves, with normal appetite, energy and weight.
Common Causes
The most common reason is a normal coat shed, especially in spring and autumn or after changes in temperature and daylight.
Poor coat care can also play a part. If loose hair is not brushed out regularly, it can build up and look like excessive shedding.
Skin irritation is another common cause. This may be linked to fleas, allergies, washing too often, harsh grooming products or a coat that’s become dry or oily.
Less commonly, shedding can be seen alongside other health issues such as hormone problems, illness or pain, but these usually come with other signs as well.
What To Do
Start with regular grooming using a brush that suits your dog’s coat type. Gentle, consistent brushing can help remove loose hair before it ends up over the house.
Keep an eye on the skin as you groom. If you see irritation, make a note of where it is and whether it’s getting worse.
Review diet, washing and bedding routines. A sudden change can sometimes affect the coat or make shedding seem more noticeable.
Keep up with parasite control if your dog is on a routine recommended by your vet, and make sure the home and sleeping areas are kept clean.
If shedding is heavy but your dog otherwise seems well, monitor it for a couple of weeks and compare what you’re seeing with your dog’s normal coat pattern.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to your vet if the shedding is sudden, patchy or accompanied by redness, sores, intense itching, pain, bad-smelling skin, bald areas, weight loss, tiredness or changes in appetite. These signs can suggest there’s more going on than a normal moult.
It’s also sensible to ask for advice if the problem keeps coming back or doesn’t improve with a better grooming routine.
Products That May Help
If your dog is shedding more than usual, a good grooming and wash routine may help support coat care, remove loose hair and keep skin and fur feeling comfortable.
Related Questions
Why is my dog shedding more in some seasons?
How often should I brush my dog?
When should I worry about hair loss in dogs?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.