Shedding Season Survival Guide (Spring & Autumn Edition)
TL;DR: Most dogs shed year-round with heavier “blow coat” periods in spring and fall. Brush regularly with the right tool, optimize nutrition (essential fatty acids + complete, balanced diet), and watch for red-flag skin changes that need a vet. For fast, calm sessions, try the FurGo Misty Spray Comb or shop on Amazon.
Why pets shed (and when it’s “season”)
Shedding is the normal replacement of old hairs with new growth across the hair cycle. Many breeds experience heavier seasonal sheds in spring and fall, while indoor pets under steady artificial light tend to shed more evenly year-round. Normal shedding is diffuse (no bald patches); patchy loss, redness, odor, or sores point to a medical issue that needs a veterinarian’s assessment.
Quick signs it’s normal
- Loose hair comes out on the brush or your hands, but no visible thin spots
- Skin looks healthy: no redness, crusts, or strong odor
- Your pet is comfortable (not itchy or painful)
Red flags (see your vet)
- Patchy or symmetric bald spots (“alopecia”), scabs, or inflamed skin
- Excessive scratching, head-shaking, or chewing at the skin
- New changes to coat quality (very dull/brittle) or behavior
Tools & techniques that actually reduce shedding
Brushing removes loose hair before it hits floors and fabrics, spreads natural oils, and keeps skin comfortable. During peak shedding weeks, aim for daily sessions; otherwise, several times per week works for most dogs.
Match the tool to the coat
- Short/smooth coats (Beagle, Boxer): rubber curry for loose hair, finish with a soft bristle brush
- Double coats (Corgi, Husky): undercoat rake to lift dead undercoat, then a wide-tooth comb to finish
- Long/silky (Golden, Collie, Yorkie): detangling comb first, then a slicker; work from ends toward the skin
Pro tip: Brush smarter, not harder
- Keep sessions calm and short (2–5 minutes per region)
- Work with the grain and use light pressure
- Reward often—make it a bonding routine, not a wrestling match
Product tie-in: why pet parents love FurGo Misty
The FurGo Misty Spray Comb pre-mists water or leave-in as you comb, so hair slides free with less pull and fewer flyaways. That means calmer pets, faster sessions, and less fur in the air. It’s lightweight, ergonomic, and easy to clean—ideal for daily maintenance and quick touch-ups. Prefer Amazon? Find Misty here.
Nutrition & environment: build a healthy coat from the inside out
- Essential fatty acids: Diets with adequate linoleic acid (omega-6) and balanced omega-6:omega-3 support skin barrier function and coat quality.
- Feed to a standard: Choose foods that meet AAFCO nutrient profiles for your pet’s life stage and follow WSAVA guidelines for selecting reputable brands.
- Hydration & humidity: Dry winter air and frequent hot baths can dry the skin—use a humidifier and gentle, pet-safe shampoos as needed.
- Parasite control: Fleas and mites cause itch and hair loss—stay current on preventives recommended by your vet.
Home cleanup playbook (because fur gets everywhere)
- Daily quick wins: Microfiber sweep for hard floors, lint rollers by doors, spot-vac sofas
- Weekly rhythm: HEPA vacuum high-traffic areas 2–3× during peak season; wash throws and dog beds
- Filters: Change HVAC and robot-vac filters more often in spring/fall
Bonus: “Before/After brushing” photo series
- Pick the same spot and time of day for consistent light
- Place a dark cloth under your pet; collect shed hair in a clear bowl
- Shoot Before → Tool in hand → After + a photo of collected hair
- Caption with coat type, time spent, and tool used (FurGo Misty)
- Alt text example: “Dog shedding season before and after brushing with FurGo Misty”
Quick answers (FAQ)
When is dog shedding season?
Most dogs shed heaviest in spring and fall as undercoats change. Indoor dogs may shed more evenly year-round because consistent light reduces seasonal cues. Brush daily during peak weeks and see your vet for bald patches or irritated skin.
Shop the tool that makes shedding season manageable
Turn shedding from a mess into a 5-minute habit. Start with the FurGo Misty Spray Comb or buy on Amazon.
References (authority & further reading)
- Kirby NA. Dietary fats and the skin and coat of dogs. JAVMA (AVMA), 2007. Link
- AAFCO. Dog and Cat Food Nutrient Profiles (Omega-6:Omega-3 guidance). Appendix B PDF
- WSAVA Global Nutrition Committee. Selecting a Pet Food. Guidelines
- Hill’s Pet Nutrition. Dog & Cat Shedding Seasons. Overview
- Embark Vet. Dog Shedding Explained (indoor light & year-round shedding). Article
- ASPCA. Dog Grooming Tips (benefits of regular brushing). Article
- Coyner KS. Pathology in Practice (differentials for alopecia). JAVMA, 2019. Case discussion
Disclaimer: This guide is informational and not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you notice skin lesions, odor, pain, or hair loss patterns, consult your veterinarian.
