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Supporting your dog's shedding [March 2026]
As the first warm rays of sun touch the ground in March 2026 and crocuses begin to bloom, nature isn't the only thing waking up. In living rooms everywhere, spring makes its presence known in a very specific way: small (and sometimes alarmingly large) dust bunnies blowing through hallways like tumbleweeds. The spring shedding season has officially begun.
As a dog owner, you know exactly what this means. The vacuum cleaner is working overtime, and dark clothing is tucked away at the back of the closet for the time being. However, this natural process isn't just a challenge for us humans; it's a significant physical effort for our four-legged friends. Your dog's metabolism is currently running at full speed to shed the thick, insulating winter coat and make room for a lighter summer coat. If you want to support your dog's shedding correctly, you can make this strenuous phase much easier for them—and save your own sanity in the process.
In this guide, based on my many years of experience, I will show you which strategies truly help, why nutrition plays a key role right now, and which tools will help you master the hair chaos.
Why March marks the start of the great shedding season
Many dog owners believe that rising temperatures alone are responsible for hair loss. However, that is only half the truth. The main trigger for the spring kickoff is the so-called photoperiod—the length of daylight. Now, in March 2026, the days are getting noticeably longer. The increasing light hits the dog's retina and sends signals to the pineal gland in the brain. Hormone production shifts and gives the hair follicles the command: "Time to shed the old coat!"
Of course, temperature also plays a role, especially for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors. For dogs that live primarily in centrally heated, warm apartments, we experts often observe a diffuse, year-round shedding. Nevertheless, the spring coat change, which usually lasts between six and eight weeks, remains the most intense phase of the year.
Supporting your dog's shedding: The best strategies
A healthy dog can generally handle the coat change on its own. However, we can help them speed up the process and prevent skin irritations such as itching or dandruff. To do this, we rely on three pillars: mechanical grooming, targeted nutrition, and general well-being.
Brushing, Combing, Grooming – The right technique for every coat type
Regular brushing is the most important step. It not only removes dead hair before it lands on your sofa but also massages your dog's skin. This stimulates blood circulation and promotes the production of protective sebum, which makes the new coat shine. However, it is crucial that you use the right tools for your dog's coat type. The Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen (VDH) strongly advises matching grooming utensils to the individual hair structure.
- Short-haired dogs (e.g., Dalmatians, Boxers): Rubber grooming mitts or soft natural bristle brushes work best here. Use circular movements against and with the grain to effectively massage out loose guard hairs.
- Dogs with an undercoat (e.g., Labradors, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers): Heavier duty tools are required here. Special undercoat rakes, slicker brushes, or deshedding tools pull the fine, dead undercoat out of the thick topcoat. Note: Tools with blades (as is often the case with trimming knives or sharp undercoat combs) should be used with caution to avoid cutting the healthy topcoat.
- Long-haired dogs (e.g., Havanese, Maltese): A wide-toothed comb and a good wire brush are mandatory. The main goal here is to loosen tangles and mats that can form extremely quickly due to the mix of falling winter fur and new summer fur.
Take 10 to 15 minutes every day for grooming during these weeks. Turn it into a positive ritual: a quiet environment, gentle talking, and a reward afterward will significantly strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
Nutrition as the key to a healthy coat
Hair consists almost entirely of keratin, a protein. Building a completely new coat requires peak performance from the metabolism. Estimates suggest that during shedding season, up to 30 percent of the protein ingested through food goes directly into skin and hair growth.
To effectively support your dog's shedding, you should "pimp" your dog's menu during this time. Scientific studies on animal nutrition prove that certain nutrients are particularly important now:
- High-quality proteins: Ensure a high meat content in the food. A raw egg yolk (please no raw egg white, as it inhibits biotin absorption) once or twice a week provides valuable amino acids and ensures shine.
- Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids: They are the "lubricant" for the coat change. Salmon oil, linseed oil, or hemp oil are excellent supplements. A teaspoon (for small dogs) to a tablespoon (for large dogs) daily poured over the food prevents dandruff and extreme itching.
- B-vitamins and Zinc: Biotin (Vitamin B7) and Zinc are the ultimate skin vitamins. Many dogs benefit from a multi-week course of brewer's yeast tablets or a special zinc supplement during shedding.
Daily care tips: Does bathing help with shedding?
The answer is a qualified "yes." Bathing a dog constantly destroys the skin's natural protective acid mantle. However, a targeted bath at the start of heavy shedding can work wonders. Use lukewarm water and a high-quality, moisturizing dog shampoo. The heat opens the pores, and massaging the shampoo loosens huge amounts of dead undercoat.
A real insider tip from the grooming salon is the use of a dog blower (a special high-performance hair dryer for dogs). If your dog isn't afraid of noise, you can literally blow the loose undercoat out of the fur after bathing (or even when dry). Ideally, this should take place in the garden—otherwise, it will "snow" in your living room in March 2026.
Breed-specific differences in shedding
Every dog is an individual, and this is reflected in their hair structure. If you look at the large breed overview at HonestDog, you will see how diverse our four-legged friends' coat types are.
Northern breeds like the Siberian Husky or the Samoyed, as well as herding dogs like the Australian Shepherd, shed gigantic amounts of undercoat in the spring. In these cases, you cannot avoid daily, intensive grooming.
On the other hand, there are breeds where "shedding season" is hardly an issue. Poodles, Water Dogs, or many types of Terriers have a different hair cycle. They do not undergo seasonal coat changes; instead, their hair grows continuously. These dogs must be regularly clipped or hand-stripped (plucked) instead. If you are looking for a companion that spares your furniture, it is worth looking at specific breed traits like "hypoallergenic" or "low shedding."
When shedding becomes abnormal: Recognizing warning signs
Shedding is normal. But where is the line between natural hair loss and illness? During the coat change, dogs scratch more often because loose hairs tickle the skin. However, if your dog bites themselves until they bleed, if circular bald patches form, or if the skin is extremely red and smells unpleasant, you should take action.
In such cases, simply trying to support the shedding process isn't enough—a visit to the vet is mandatory. The Federal Association of Practicing Veterinarians (bpt) points out that severe, irregular hair loss can be a symptom of mite infestation, fungal infections, allergies, or endocrine disorders (such as an underactive thyroid). Always have such symptoms medically cleared.
FAQ: Common questions about spring shedding
How long does a dog's shedding usually last?
As a rule, the acute phase of shedding in the spring lasts between six and eight weeks. For older dogs, neutered animals, or female dogs after heat, this process can take a bit longer due to hormonal reasons. With regular brushing and good nutrient supply, you can often slightly shorten this period.
Can I just shave my dog in the spring to stop the shedding?
Please do not do that! For dogs with a double coat (topcoat and undercoat), shaving destroys the natural structure of the fur. The protective topcoat is cut off, while the soft undercoat grows back uncontrollably. This leads to matting, destroys thermoregulation for the summer, and no longer protects the dog from wetness and UV radiation. The rule is: brush out the undercoat, don't cut the topcoat!
Can I give my dog normal cooking oil (e.g., sunflower oil) with their food?
Technically, a drop of sunflower oil won't hurt, but it does little for the coat change. Plant oils like sunflower or thistle oil mainly contain Omega-6 fatty acids. Our domestic dogs usually get enough of these in their regular food. Omega-3 fatty acids are more important, as they have anti-inflammatory and skin-nourishing effects. Instead, opt for high-quality salmon oil, krill oil, or cold-pressed linseed oil.
Find the perfect dog with HonestDog
Spring is a time for new beginnings. Perhaps you are currently in the middle of preparing for your first dog, or you are looking for a second furry companion to keep your life (and perhaps your vacuum cleaner) busy. Whether you are looking for a fluffy undercoat-heavy giant or a low-shedding curly-head—choosing the right breeder is crucial for a long, healthy dog life.
As a dog expert, I recommend not relying on dubious classified ads. At HonestDog, you will find a carefully vetted, transparent platform that connects you with reputable breeders. We place the highest value on health, character, and species-appropriate rearing. Check out our comprehensive breed database, read up on the characteristics of different dogs, and find the companion that truly fits your lifestyle. Start your search today with HonestDog—out of love for the dog.