Brushing up for shedding season

While some dogs shed year-round, others shed seasonally during fall and spring months, in preparation for winter and summer weather. Although shedding is a natural process, there are ways to reduce shedding and keep loose hair to a minimum, which can improve your dog’s skin and coat health. Harmony Diers, a veterinary technician at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, says that reducing a dog’s shedding begins with grooming. “Ideally, brushing your dog at least three to four times a week for 5 to 10 minutes can help soften your dog’s coat and reduce the amount of hair that is shed,” Diers said. “You should also consider bathing your dog weekly during shedding season and two to three times a month during the months they shed less.” ...