Have you ever noticed the large clumps of fur rolling around your house, like a tumbleweed in the wind, during the season change? Do you own a double-coated dog such as a Siberian Husky or a German Shepherd? If so, then you may already know the phrase “blow coat”.

What Does It Mean?

Did you know that basically all dogs shed? It’s true, even the ones that are labeled “hypoallergenic”. Although some breeds shed a lot less than others, there are those “lucky” few that shed an exhausting amount during certain seasons, which we call “blowing coat”. Blowing Coat is when a double-coated dog sheds its soft undercoat to get ready for warmer temperatures ahead. Some breeds even blow coat in the Autumn season to make room for that winter coat to grow in nice and thick.

There are certain breeds that heavily blow their coat. Those breeds include:

Siberian Husky

German Shepherd

Samoyed

Akita

Great Pyrenees

Malamute

Newfoundland

Chow Chow

Saint Bernard

Golden Retriever

What Our Groomers Recommend

• Brushing your dog regularly can help minimize the tornado of hair that will be in your home during the shedding seasons. It also improves the air circulation in the coat.  It can be tedious work but being prepared with the right tools can help. Shedding rakes and Curry Combs are some great options to help with that pesky undercoat.  (TIP: You can recycle that unwanted hair by offering it up to the birds for nesting materials. It is also said to be a good deer deterrent by sprinkling it around your yard.)
• Make it a habit to get your dog bathed every 4 to 6 weeks. We offer a Deshed Package in addition to a bath for those double-coated dogs. This package includes a special deshed shampoo that opens up the hair follicles to help remove all the unwanted hair. An extra blow out is included as well!
• Don’t shave your double-coated dog. Despite what you may believe, shaving your dog can actually do more damage than good. Those double layers provide protection from the outside elements including keeping the dog cool during hot temperatures and protecting their skin from the sun. The shedding process is a sign that your dog is healthy. Preventing this process can decrease their skin and hair health. Shaving your double-coated dog can change the texture of their hair and make it grow back patchy.
• Fish oil pills can help greatly with your dogs skin and coat. The omega-3 fatty acids is known to help give your pup a silky coat, reduce itchy and flaky skin given from allergies and it also supports a healthy heart.

You know your pup better than anyone else. If you notice they are shedding at unusual times and in large quantities, so much so that it is concerning to you, get your pup checked on by a veterinary medical professional as soon as possible. There could be underlying issues that you’re not aware of. It’s best to be safe!