Best Dog Shampoo : Reduce Heavy Shedding FAST

Are you finding fur all over your house? Are your clothes always covered in dog hair? That must mean it's shedding season, and you might be asking yourself what the best dog shampoo for shedding is.

 

The right natural dog shampoo can help manage all that fur around the house while also promoting healthy skin. Every dog experiences some level of hair loss, and the best dog shampoos ensure that the shedding is normal rather than excessive. We've gathered everything you need to know to help you find the best shampoo!

 

 

Why Do Dogs Shed?

Shedding is a normal and healthy part of your dog's hair growth. Many breeds prepare themselves for colder months by growing out their hair to insulate the body. When the weather gets warm again, dogs no longer need all that excess hair, so they shed it off.

 

 

Do Some Dogs Shed More Than Others?

Every dog goes through some level of shedding. Even hypoallergenic dogs or pooches with little hair shed. However, some breeds shed a lot more loose hair than others.

 

The amount of hair a dog sheds can be due to factors like the dog's hair type and region. Terriers are known for their thick, coarse hair that doesn't shed often, while Retrievers have long hair that can easily become loose. A dog's shedding level is usually a result of the region in which the breed originated.

 

Ask a veterinarian or do some research about your dog so that you know their normal amount of shedding. These are some breeds that shed large amounts of hair:

 

• Labrador Retriever
• St. Bernard
• Keeshond
• Lakeland Terrier
• Pug
• Shiba Inu
• Newfoundland
• German Shepherd
• Akita
• Bernese Mountain Dog
• Boston Terrier
• Chow Chow
• Alaskan Malamute
• American Eskimo Dog
• Rottweiler

 

It's important to remember that a high level of shedding means the dog has grown a lot of hair to prepare for the cold months. If you live in a climate that is warm year-round, a dog that sheds a lot might not be ideal. This is another good topic to discuss with your veterinarian.

 

Normal vs. Excessive Shedding

Since different dog breeds shed various amounts of hair, you must first determine what normal shedding looks like for your dog. After you know what's normal, you'll more easily be able to determine what is excessive. Shedding is a healthy practice that we don't want to stop entirely.

 

Some dogs shed seasonally, while others refresh their coat hair year-round. Seasonal shedding means that the animal insulates for cold weather and sheds for warmer months (Spring and Fall). A normal amount of hair loss for a dog that sheds year-round would be excessive for one that sheds seasonally.

 

 

 

 

For example, Golden Retrievers shed massive amounts of hair compared to a Poodle, with each breed having its own version of "normal shedding." Once you determine the appropriate level of hair loss for your breed, it is easier to spot excessive shedding.

 

Even if your pet constantly sheds its coat, there are steps you can take to cut down on the amount of dead hair in your home. Various health conditions can cause an abnormal level of shedding. Sometimes, the dog might need an upgrade on its shampoo.

 

Related: Dog Dandruff: What Causes It and How to Stop It NOW!

 

Breeds Prone To Seasonal Shedding

Shedding is something that concerns every dog owner. Unless you have a dog that's hypoallergenic and doesn't shed, expect to find loose hair follicles throughout your house. However, not all dogs that are prone to shedding shed at the same rate. Some do it more than others, especially during shedding season.

 

Here are some breeds that are prone to seasonal shedding:

 

• Akita
• Alaskan Husky
• Beagle
• Chow Chow
• German Shepherd
• Golden Retriever
• Great Pyrenees
• Pug
• Saint Bernard
• Shiba Inu
• Siberian Husky

 

Breeds That Do Not Shed

If you're looking to adopt a dog but don't want to deal with shedding, you're in luck! There are several dog breeds to choose from if you want a dog that does not shed. From toy dogs to large dogs, here are several dog breeds that do not shed:

 

• Afghan Hound
• American Hairless Terrier
• Basenji
• Bedlington Terrier
• Bichon Frise
• Cairn Terrier
• Chinese Crested
• Coton de Tulear
• Giant Schnauzer
• Havanese
• Irish Water Spaniel
• Kerry Blue Terrier
• Lagotto Romagnolo
• Lhasa Apso
• Maltese
• Miniature Schnauzer
• Peruvian Inca Orchid
• Poodle
• Portuguese Water Dog
• Shih Tzu
• Scottish Terrier
• Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
• Spanish Water Dog
• Standard Schnauzer
• West Highland Terrier
• Xoloitzcuintli
• Yorkshire Terrier

 

 

Things to Look for When Buying a Dog Shampoo for Shedding

Shampoo works by utilizing a surfactant (like detergent), which lowers the water's surface tension. This allows the soap to bind with all the dirt and oils on your pooch's fur. This is the basis for all shampoos, so what additional ingredients should you keep an eye out for?

 

First, let's take a look at some additives to stay away from. An easy way to tell if a manufacturer doesn't want you to know what's in their product is if the label says it contains a "proprietary blend of coat and skin conditioners and moisturizers." This statement is often used to hide the real ingredients.

 

Other additives to avoid in dog shedding shampoos are:

 

• Artificial colors/chemical dyes: these have been linked to organ damage in animals and humans.
• Formaldehyde preservatives: studies have shown that formaldehyde exposure can damage the lining of an animal's nose and throat. High amounts of overexposure can actually damage the lungs.
• Isothiazolinone preservatives: these have been shown to irritate the skin and have been outlawed in Europe.
• Paraben preservatives: parabens can disrupt hormones, and some animal studies have shown that they damage female reproductive development.
• Cocamide-MEA: cocamide-MEA is relatively safe for topical application, but if it is inhaled, it can become toxic, so it is best to avoid it.
• Triethanolamine: research on this additive is ongoing, but some animal studies have shown that it is potentially carcinogenic, so best to keep clear of triethanolamine.

 

Some beneficial ingredients include cannabidiol (CBD), omega fatty acids, and essential oils. Let's break down each beneficial ingredient so that your furry friend has the healthiest skin and coat possible.

 

Cannabidiol (CBD)

CBD is one of the best natural ingredients in many products, and in recent years it has shown its strength in shampoos. Topical CBD applications work great for humans and pets alike. CBD is extracted from hemp plants, so it provides an organic boost to pet hair.

 

Dog shampoo containing CBD can help your pooch by complementing its endocannabinoid system (ECS). Found in nearly all mammals, the ECS regulates body functions essential for healthy skin and much more. CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors in your dog's body and skin to boost the ECS's efficacy. Not to mention, CBD can help hydrate dry skin.

 

Omega Fatty Acids

Look for dog shampoos that are enriched with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids are essential for our pets' health. Like humans, dogs don't produce these fats on their own, so they need to get them from other sources.

 

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids play a huge role in your dog's skin health, and they also assist in vital functions like cell membrane structure, immune function, and growth. A dog's coat enriched with omega-3 and 6 fatty acids is less likely to go through excess shedding when the season arrives.

 

Calendula extract is a good source of omega-6 fatty acids. It is a powerful natural ingredient that can help reduce shedding in your dog's coat.

 

Biotin

Research has shown that biotin can soothe dogs with sensitive skin. Whether it is present in your pet's shampoo and conditioner, or a part of their diet a few times a week, this is an excellent natural ingredient for a healthy, shiny coat.

 

Flaxseed

Rich in essential fatty acids, flaxseed is a great way to take care of your dog's fur. Flaxseed also contains alpha-linolic acid, which contains anti-inflammatory properties.

 

Deshedding shampoo that utilizes flaxseed is more likely to boost your dog's immune system, lowering the chance of excessive fur loss.

 

 

 

 

Humectants

"Humectant" is a fancy word that refers to anything that preserves moisture. Since dry and flaky skin is a common cause of abnormal fur loss, retaining the moisture in a dog's skin is crucial for shed control.

 

Not only do humectants preserve moisture, but they also attract water and repel microbes and bacteria that may damage a healthy coat. Look for a shed control shampoo that contains coconut oil, a natural humectant. Some other humectants that can help you reduce shedding include:

 

• Carboxylic acid
• Lactic acid
• Urea
• Sodium lactate
• Propylene glycol
• Glycerin
• Polyvinylpyrrolidone

 

Emulsifiers

Emollients are a crucial part of any de-shedding shampoo because they restore the shine in dog hair. Emulsifiers are essential for distributing emollients, as they help the shampoo's ingredients mix with each other and with water. Make sure you buy a shampoo with an emulsifier to help your dog's shedding.

 

Emulsifiers typically contain:

 

• Cetyl alcohol
• Laureth-5
• Lecithin
• PEG-4 dilaurate
• Stearic acid
• Stearyl alcohol

 

Essential Oils

Essential oils are one of the most versatile and powerful natural ingredients. These oils can reduce shedding because of their antiparasitic and antibacterial properties. Lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus are popular essential oils for anti-shedding shampoo products.

 

 

What is the Best Dog Shampoo for Shedding?

The best overall option for your dog’s coat and skin is HolistaPet's ultra premium CBD dog shampoo. Other shampoos can moisturize your dog's skin and fur, but their benefits usually stop there. Our CBD-infused recipe provides all of these benefits with the additional, full-body advantages of cannabidiol.

 

 

 

 

Many anti-shedding dog shampoos approach shed control by only targeting the animal's skin. We know that dogs need to feel healthy inside and out to have nice, shiny fur. We make sure that your dog's skin is cleaned and soothed, but our product goes even further.

 

A well-functioning ECS can reduce the chance of health issues arising. HolistaPet's high-quality CBD oil boosts your pet's ECS by stimulating receptors on the skin. Using this shampoo may also help control shedding before it becomes a problem.

 

Our natural pet shampoo is effective for dogs with sensitive, dry skin. With cleansing properties, moisturizing effects, and the benefits of CBD oil, you'll quickly see why this is one of the best products for shed control!

 

Related: Dog Ringworm Treatment Home Remedies [Easy Tips Inside!]

 

Other Methods to Help With Dog Shedding

A de-shedding shampoo isn't the only method you can use to ensure your dog has a healthy coat. Other natural ingredients to look for outside of dog shampoo include oats, papaya leaf extract, and vitamin E. These additives are present in some shampoos, but you can also administer them orally or topically.

 

Oat Proteins

Oat proteins contain avenanthramides, which are chemicals that possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. There are de-shedding shampoos with oats already mixed in, but you can also give your pooch an oatmeal bath made from scratch.

 

To give your dog an oatmeal bath, fill a tub or a large bucket with warm water. Blend a cup of whole oat oatmeal, then add the powder to the water. Let your dog soak in the mixture for about 10 minutes before rinsing them off and toweling them dry!

 

Calendula Extract and Papaya Leaf Extract

Calendula, commonly known as the pot marigold, and papaya leaf extract can help your pet's skin by healing wounds, alleviating discomfort, and fighting inflammation. It can also relieve irritation associated with skin allergies.

 

Vitamin E

Vitamin E targets dry skin, one of the leading causes of excessive fur loss. You can give your dog vitamin E in several different ways, but we recommend a topical application. Some dog shampoos carry a healthy dose of this vitamin, but you can also buy vitamin E oil to rub directly onto your dog's skin.

 

Other administration methods include injection, but you should consult a veterinarian before choosing this route. Vitamin E injections are usually only necessary for dogs with other underlying health concerns.

 

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a succulent plant grown in tropical climates. It has a wide range of potential health benefits, and it can also assist your dog. Aloe vera soothes your pet's skin better than artificial chemicals.

 

While aloe vera is safe for dogs in certain forms, the whole leaves contain potentially toxic compounds like saponins and glycosides. Make sure you only use aloe vera that is approved for canine use. For a comprehensive guide on safe aloe vera administration for dogs, Wag! made this helpful guide.

 

 

How To Prevent Dog Shedding

Not all dogs shed. However, those that do can leave quite a mess. But you and your home don't have to become a victim of your dog's excessive shedding. Here are some simple ways you can prevent shedding in your dog.

 

 

 

 

Bathe Frequently

When you bathe your dog frequently, you help reduce excessive shedding. A heavy shedding dog will benefit greatly from at least two baths a month. Make sure you use a high-quality de-shedding shampoo when bathing your dog. Before you bathe your dog, it's important for you to brush your dog to remove as much excess hair as possible.

 

Brush Often

Frequent brushings will remove loose hair and reduce shedding. Maintaining a regular brushing schedule for your dog is very important, especially during shedding season in fall and spring. If you own a dog with a double coat, you will need to use a specialized brush made for this coat.

 

Use a High-Quality Shedding Tool

Shedding tools are different than your regular dog brush. These tools are bushes with stainless steel tines extending from them to help remove loose hair. Shedding tools are great for loosening, pulling, and removing dead hairs before they end up shedding and get all over the place.

 

Consider Clipping

Clipping your dog can shorten their coat and help reduce shedding. However, not every dog should have its coat clipped. This is an option that is best suited for dogs that have thick coats and live in warm climates. If you do not live in a warm environment but have a dog with a thick coat, you might want to consider clipping their coat during the hot summer months.

 

Blow Dry After Bathing

After you finish bathing your dog, towel dry them as much as you can and then blow-dry their coat. Do not use hot air because this will dry out your dog's coat. Blow-dry with warm air instead. As your dog's coat starts to try, use a brush to remove any loose hairs. Be sure to brush outwards from their skin. Continue to blow-dry and brush until your dog is dry.

 

Brush After Blow Drying

After you finish blow-drying your dog, give them another thorough brushing to remove any loose hairs. You will notice that more hair will come out when brushing your dog after blow-drying. This is normal and will help remove excess hair before it ends up all over your house!

 

Provide Supplements

Giving your dog supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids will help reduce shedding and help promote healthy skin and coat. But don't just use any omega-3 supplements. Give your dog omega-3 supplements formulated for dogs. If you're unsure where to obtain these, consult your veterinarian for advice.

 

Choose Nutritious Foods

Your dog's nutrition directly impacts their coat health and how much hair they shed. One of the keys to reducing shedding is to feed your dog high-quality dog food. But don't just settle for any kind of dog food. You might have to spend a little more on your dog's food, but it will save you time and money in the long run by reducing shedding.

 

Make sure to buy high-quality dog food that contains some type of animal protein such as:

 

• Fish
• Chicken
• Turkey
• Lamb
• Beef

 

 

When To See A Veterinarian For Shedding

Shedding is a normal occurrence for a dog. However, when you notice excess shedding at unusual times, then it might be time to take your pooch to the vet. Your dog's constant shedding might be the result of something as simple as stress or a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Whatever the reason, a licensed veterinarian can determine the root cause of your dog's persistent hair loss.

 

Seek veterinary advice when you notice the following symptoms associated with shedding in your dog:

 

• Excessive hair loss
• Shedding at unexpected times
• Bald spots
• Unusual itching and scratching
• Irritated and sensitive skin
• Sores

 

Some of the underlying medical conditions responsible for your dog's shedding may include:

 

• Environmental allergies
• Food allergies
• Skin infections
• Sunburn
• Bacterial infections
• Fungal infections
• Parasites
• Thyroid issues
• Anxiousness
• Stress
• Pregnancy or nursing
• Malignancy

 

Keep Your Pooch Hydrated

Essential to the health of every living creature is water. For dogs, having fresh water handy for your pup to drink can mean the difference between hydrated skin and dry skin. If your dog is dehydrated, their skin will be dry and lead to increased shedding, even hair loss.

 

Vacuum Often

Vacuuming often might not prevent your dog from shedding, but it may prevent you from dealing with the frustrations of shedding. Often, not vacuuming as frequently as you should and allowing your dog's loose hairs to accumulate throughout your house might make you think they're shedding a lot when in reality, you just haven't cleaned up! It would be best if you vacuumed often to prevent your house from turning into a hairy mess and make it easier for you to deal with your shedding dog.

 

 

Final Thoughts - Best Dog Shampoo for Shedding

Anti-shedding pet shampoo can fight fur loss and keep your dog's coat and skin healthy. Be sure that you read a manufacturer's reviews before purchasing the product. Just because a shampoo contains natural ingredients doesn't mean it is ideal for shed control.

 

We know that shedding season can be a hassle for some dog owners. We created our CBD dog shampoo with you and your pooch in mind. If you want a product that can moisturize, clean, and provide the incredible benefits of cannabidiol to your pet, look no further than HolistaPet's CBD dog shampoo. Want to learn more about dog care? Visit us here for more dog care tips!

 

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