Why do dogs shed in summer?

Dogs shed their fur all year round, but some breeds shed more in summer. This is because they have a double coat of fur, with a soft undercoat and a coarse outer coat. The undercoat keeps them warm in winter, while the outer coat protects them from sun, rain, and dirt. In summer, dogs shed their undercoat to stay cool and avoid overheating. This also means more hair around the house, on the furniture, and on your clothes. 

How to prevent excessive shedding?

Shedding is natural for dogs, but here are some things you can do to reduce it, and keep your dog's coat healthy and shiny: 

• Brush your dog regularly. This removes loose hair and dirt, spreads natural oils, and improves blood circulation. Use a suitable brush or comb for your dog's coat such as the Porta - Double Brush, and be gentle and patient.  

• Feed your dog a balanced diet. A good diet such as Hill's VetEssentials Diet - Canine Neutered Adult gives your dog the nutrients they need for a healthy skin and coat. Avoid cheap or low-quality food that has fillers, preservatives, or artificial colours. Choose a food that suits your dog's age, size, and activity level. 

• You can also add omega-3 fatty acids (Natural Animal Solutions Omega Oil 3, 6 & 9 for Dogs) to your dog's diet, which can help reduce inflammation and improve skin and coat condition. 

• Keep your dog hydrated. Water is vital for your dog's health, especially in summer when they lose more fluids through panting and sweating. Make sure your dog has fresh and clean water at all times, and change it often. You can also give your dog some ice cubes or frozen treats to keep them cool and hydrated. 

How to remove hair from your dog's coat?

Your dog will still shed some hair in summer, even if you follow the tips above. To help your dog feel more comfortable and prevent mats and tangles, you can use some tools and techniques to remove hair from your dog's coat. Here are some options: 

• Use a de-shedding tool. This is a device that can reach the undercoat and remove loose hair without harming the outer coat. It can reduce shedding by up to 90%, and prevent allergies and infections. You can use it once or twice a week, depending on your dog's coat and shedding level, but be gentle and make sure not to damage the skin. One de-shedding tool is GiGwi Grooming Series Dual Head De-Matting Comb for Dogs and Cats (L).

• Use a grooming glove. This is a glove with rubber or silicone tips that can massage your dog's skin and collect loose hair. It can also help your dog relax and enjoy the grooming session. You can use it daily or as needed, on wet or dry fur. We particular like the Porta dog brush (Porta - Double Rubber Hold Brush).

• Use a damp cloth or sponge. This can help remove hair from your dog's coat by creating static electricity. You can wipe your dog's fur with a damp cloth or sponge, and the hair will stick to it. You can also use it to remove hair from your furniture, clothes, or car seats. 

Other summer skin problems to watch out for

Shedding is not the only skin problem your dog may have in summer. There are some other issues you should know and prevent or treat as soon as possible. Here are some examples: 

• Fleas and ticks. These parasites can cause itching, irritation, inflammation, and infections on your dog's skin. They can also transmit diseases and allergies to your dog and to you. To prevent them, you should use a preventive product, such as a collar, a spot-on, or a tablet. You should also check your dog's fur and skin regularly, and remove any fleas or ticks with a tweezer or a tool. We have lots of information about fleas and ticks here: The Best Flea, Tick & Heartworm Preventatives for Pets

• Hot spots. These are moist, red, and painful areas on your dog's skin that are caused by licking, scratching, or biting. They can be triggered by allergies, infections, insect bites, or stress. To prevent them, you should keep your dog's coat clean and dry, avoid irritants, and give your dog enough mental and physical stimulation. To treat them, you should clean the area with an antiseptic solution, apply a cream or spray, and stop your dog from licking or scratching the area. 

• Sunburn. This is a condition that occurs when your dog's skin gets too much sun. It can cause redness, swelling, peeling, and pain on your dog's skin. It can also increase the risk of skin cancer. To prevent it, you should avoid exposing your dog to direct sunlight for long periods, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. You should also apply a sunscreen that is safe for dogs, especially on areas that have less fur, such as the nose, ears, and belly.