How to Groom a Shedding Dog

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Medium
15 - 30 Minutes
1 Week

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Introduction

Grooming your shedding dog is one of the best possible things you can do to not only help him look his best at all times. It is also the best way to keep his shedding under control, especially during the two times of the year when he is shedding. Shedding can be more than just annoying, it can lead to incredible messes in your house on your furniture, all over the carpets, and anywhere you can imagine. No matter how much you groom a shedding dog, you are going to have some hair around the house, but you can at least help control it by grooming your pup regularly. 

Dog's Perspective

Some dogs like to be groomed on a regular basis, some do not. In most cases, this is simply because the dog has not been properly introduced to the tools used for grooming and he is more than just a little nervous about them. This is where you come in; it is your job to take things very slowly at first so that your pup gets used to being groomed on a regular basis. Not only will this help him to stay looking his best, it gives you a chance to check him over for fleas, ticks, mats, tangles, and injuries. 

The Minimize Shedding Method

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Shampoo
Scissors
Pin Brush
Flea Comb
Deshedder
Dematter
Clipper
Dryer
Towel
Step
1
Brush regularly
The more frequently you take time out to brush your pup's coat, the more of the loose hair you will be able to remove using a shedding brush or comb. This will help cut back on those bags of hair you collect every week. During normal times of the year, you may be able to brush weekly, but during shedding season, try and brush your pup daily.
Step
2
Bath time
Bathing your pup on a frequent basis, using a shampoo that is vet-approved, is another great way help your pup get rid of all that loose hair. You need to brush his hair before the bath, use a conditioner, and a detangler afterward. Brushing his coat first will help remove the bulk of his loose hair, the bath should remove even more.
Step
3
Blow dry
Use a towel to remove the bulk of the rinse water from his coat. Then use a brush and hair dryer to finish the job. When his coat starts to dry out, use a brush to go through his coat and remove even more of the loose hair. The more you get out now, the less will end up clogging your vacuum cleaner.
Step
4
Clipper time
Now is a good time to use electric clippers or shears to trim your pup's hair. During the summer months, trimming his coat may help him to stay cooler. But you should let it grow out to full length to help keep him warmer in the winter months.
Step
5
If your pup sheds too much
If it looks like your pup might be shedding too much, consider taking him to see his vet. This problem could be the result of a number of medical conditions that may require other forms of treatment.

The Never Clip Method

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Shampoo
Scissors
Pin Brush
Flea Comb
Dematter
Comb
Clipper
Towel
Step
1
No cutting required
If you have a long-haired "snow dog" such as a Husky, Alaskan Malamute or St. Bernard, the last thing you want to do is cut or trim his hair. This can cause the opposite results of what you are trying to accomplish. Your pup relies on the length of his coat and both layers to keep him warm in the winter and cooler in the summer. Never shave him to his skin as this can lead to a variety of skin conditions or sunburn.
Step
2
Start with an undercoat rake
Start the grooming process using an undercoat rake. This tool is designed to help remove the loose hairs of your pup's protective undercoat. It is designed in such a way that it gets in past his outer guard hairs and down to the second coat that actually sheds. While using this brush, be sure to remove the buildup of hair frequently as you go over his entire coat. Alternate between brushing in the direction his fur grows and going in the opposite direction. This will remove the maximum amount of loose hair.
Step
3
The de-shedding tool
Using a de-shedding tool designed for long hair, go over your pup's coat very lightly. This will help to cut back the longer hairs without touching the shorter guard hairs. Never use a shedding blade or stripping blade on longer haired dots, as it will end up cutting the guard hairs.
Step
4
Bath time
Many long-haired dogs like Huskies, Malamutes, Samoyeds and the like do not produce the same amount of hair oils as short-haired dogs. Because of this, they don't need to be bathed as often. But, when bath time comes, be sure to use a vet-recommended shampoo, conditioner and detangler to make his coat easier to brush.
Step
5
Air dry only
Because shedding dogs have a double coat, you need to let your pup's coat air dry before trying to brush it or you could end up painfully ripping hair out of his skin. Once his coat is completely dry, use an undercoat brush to go over it and remove any tangles or mats.

Caution & Considerations

  • Most dogs that shed do not require regular bathing, your pup should only be bathed if he has gotten muddy, excessively dirty, or has been swimming in dirty water.
  • Use tools that are specifically made for use on long-haired dogs as they will not damage the shorter guard hairs.
  • Take your time and use treats as needed to help keep your pup nice and calm throughout the grooming process.
  • Never cut your pup's hair super-short or shave him down to the skin unless your vet tells you it is medically necessary. This can lead to dry skin, sunburn, and many other complications.
  • Always opt to spend more on top quality shears and clippers, they will provide a better cut and last longer than cheap alternatives.
  • Any shears you buy to trim your dog's coat must not have pointy tips, they can cause serious injury to your pup. Be sure to use only those with rounded tips or safety shears.
  • Be sure to only use shampoos, conditioners, and detanglers designed for dogs. Those made for humans contain chemicals that can harm your dog. 

Conclusion

While grooming a shedding dog can be challenging, it is only a matter of practice to master this skill. Your pup will learn to appreciate the attention and his good looks, and it will give the two of you more time to bond. It will also save you a small fortune in professional grooming fees and vacuum cleaners!

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