If you’ve ever come home to find your couch, carpet, and clothes covered in dog fur, you know the reality of shedding season. For most dogs, shedding peaks twice a year — but with the right tools and routine, you can keep it under control. Here’s everything you need to know about dog shedding season.
What Is Dog Shedding Season?
Most double-coated dog breeds experience two major shedding seasons per year — spring and fall. In spring, dogs shed their heavy winter coat to prepare for warm weather. In fall, they shed their lighter summer coat to grow in a thicker winter undercoat. This is sometimes called “blowing coat.”
Which Breeds Shed the Most?
Heavy shedders include:
- German Shepherds
- Labrador Retrievers
- Golden Retrievers
- Huskies and Malamutes
- Corgis
- Border Collies
If you have one of these breeds, expect shedding season to be intense — but manageable with the right approach.
How Long Does Shedding Season Last?
Peak shedding typically lasts 2–4 weeks per season, though some breeds shed moderately year-round. Indoor dogs may shed year-round due to consistent lighting and temperature from artificial environments.
Top Tools for Managing Shedding Season
1. Deshedding Brush (Furminator-style)
A quality deshedding tool reaches the undercoat and removes loose fur before it ends up on your furniture. Use 2–3 times per week during peak shedding. See our complete guide to reducing dog shedding for top-rated tools.
2. Slicker Brush
A slicker brush is great for daily maintenance — it removes surface-level tangles and loose fur without pulling. Good for all coat types.
3. Grooming Gloves
Grooming gloves let you brush your dog during petting sessions. They’re less intimidating for sensitive dogs and work well on short-coated breeds. Check our at-home grooming guide for step-by-step techniques.
4. High-Velocity Dog Dryer
After bathing, a high-velocity dryer blows loose fur out of the coat before it dries. This dramatically reduces the amount of fur that ends up on your floors in the following days.
5. HEPA Vacuum
A vacuum with a HEPA filter captures pet dander along with fur. During shedding season, daily vacuuming of high-traffic areas keeps the home manageable.
Diet and Supplements for Shedding Control
Nutrition plays a major role in coat health. Dogs on low-quality diets tend to shed more. Consider:
- Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) — reduces inflammation and supports skin health
- Biotin — strengthens the hair shaft and reduces breakage
- High-protein diet — coat is made of protein; a quality diet shows in the coat
Grooming Routine for Shedding Season
During peak shedding, we recommend this weekly routine:
- Brush daily with a slicker brush (5–10 min)
- Use a deshedding tool 2–3x per week
- Bathe monthly with a deshedding shampoo
- Blow-dry to remove loose undercoat
- Vacuum furniture and floors every other day
When to See a Vet
Excessive shedding outside of normal seasons — especially with bald patches, redness, or skin irritation — may indicate allergies, parasites, or hormonal issues. If shedding seems abnormal, consult your vet before adding supplements or changing products.
Final Thoughts
Shedding season doesn’t have to mean fur-covered furniture and constant vacuuming. With the right tools, a consistent grooming routine, and good nutrition, you can keep your home clean and your dog comfortable year-round. Browse our Dogplify shop for the best grooming tools and pet care products.