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Dogs shed. It’s a fact of life all pup parents understand, but not all shedding is healthy. In fact, abnormal shedding can indicate that something might be wrong, including a skin problem, allergy, or dietary issue.
Shedding is a natural and normal process for dogs, and the amount and frequency will vary depending on the breed, the season, and other factors. However, there is such a thing as abnormal shedding, and it can indicate skin and coat health problems, allergies, dietary issues, and more. Let’s find out what normal shedding in dogs looks like, when you should worry, and how you can help support skin & coat health with the right diet.
Normal Versus Abnormal Shedding in Dogs
Like humans, dogs lose some hair every day. During spring and fall, many will shed a lot more as they transition between their winter and summer coats. However, they should return to shedding normally when the new coat fully grows in.
So when should you worry about your dog’s shedding? Here are some signs to watch for:
- A sudden or dramatic increase in shedding, especially when it’s not spring or fall
- Shedding accompanied by irritation, itching, or redness
- Fur loss and the development of bald patches
- Additional changes in their coat condition
All of these can be symptoms of issues like parasites, infection, allergies, skin problems, hormone imbalances, stress, health issues, or problems with their diet.
The Link Between Diet and Shedding
One of the most common causes of irregular shedding in dogs is diet. That can include dietary imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and allergies or intolerances.
For example, dogs need protein, vitamins, iron, fatty acids, zinc, magnesium, and other minerals to grow, repair, and maintain healthy skin and a shiny coat. Without these nutrients or with the wrong levels, their skin and coat health can suffer.
Further, many dog foods contain unnecessary ingredients, such as artificial additives, sugars, starches, and even certain grains, that can cause digestive upset or trigger allergies, leading to shedding and poor skin and coat health.
Support Healthy Shedding in Your Dog with the Right Recipes!
When dietary issues cause abnormal shedding, you may be able to correct the problem with a diet made with high-quality ingredients. Here are some key things to look for:
- Omega-3 fatty acids that support skin and coat health
- High-meat recipes
- Novel proteins to avoid allergy triggers
- Recipes that are complete and balanced
Air-dried and canned foods from ZIWI Peak® are made with premium natural ingredients, like New Zealand green-lipped mussels, real fruits and vegetables, superfoods, and up to 96% meat and organs. Packed with nutrients, the recipes support whole-body and skin & coat health, support digestion, and are available in novel protein formulations for dogs with allergies.
Visit ZIWI to learn more about supporting normal shedding with the right recipes!
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Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.
