Dog Hair Everywhere!

Brushing and Other Tips to Control Excess Shedding

Dec 23, 2007

Manage all that loose fur for allergy relief, a cleaner home, healthier pet, and some creative crafts.

Some dog breeds shed more than others but all dogs shed to a certain extent. Long haired breeds do not necessarily shed more than short haired breeds and even the so-called non-shedding dogs lose hair. Dogs tend to shed more in warm weather but indoor dogs shed all year long. Even though we love our furry friends and can't live without them, we have to admit that dog hair on clothes, furniture and carpet is not welcome.

The Importance of Brushing

The effectiveness of regular brushing should not be underestimated. Regular brushing and grooming is probably the single most effective way to control loose dog hair. Daily brushing can minimize shedding by getting rid of old hair and allowing new hair to grow in. A shedding blade or one of the grooming tools designed specially for reaching deep down to the undercoat works well.

Brushing also stimulates the skin, which aids in circulation, and gives a glossy shine to the coat.

Just ten minutes a day brushing your pet can keep uncomfortable and unsightly tangles and mats from developing as well as give opportunity to inspect for fleas, ticks, lumps, or skin irritations.

Time spent brushing your dog can be great bonding time. If you come home after a long day at work to a bouncing, obnoxious dog, you'll be amazed how quickly the stress melts away for both you and your dog if you take just a few minutes to curl up on the couch and stroke your dog’s coat. You may find that one of the specially designed mittens works better for you than a brush. Most dogs love the soothing, massaging action as well as the attention from you.

Regularly brushing to remove dead hair and dander from pets can alleviate allergy symptoms for some people.

More Tips for Dealing with Loose Hair

Use the vacuum cleaner regularly to help keep your home free from dog hair. There are attachments available specially for removing hair from carpet. There are even attachments for vacuuming hair straight from the animal. However, not all dogs will tolerate this.
Use lint rollers to remove loose hairs from clothing. In a pinch, a strip of masking tape, sticky side out, will work just as well.
Use washable throws to protect bedding, furniture, and even vehicle seats.
Collect loose, clean dog hair and make cheingora. What could be more creative than turning excess dog hair into a unique garment or your own embroidered picture of your dog? If you don’t have the skill or patience for this, an internet search will help you find a service willing to do it for you.

With all the above efforts, dog owners will continue to find the occasional dog hair but that’s a small price to pay for a cold nose, a warm heart, and unconditional love.