Seasonal Shedding in Dogs: What to Expect

Many dogs shed hair throughout the year, but owners often notice it much more during spring and autumn. This natural process, known as seasonal shedding, can leave more hair on carpets, sofas and clothing than usual. While it is often completely normal, changes in your dog’s coat can sometimes also be linked to skin irritation, parasites, diet or an underlying health problem.

Understanding what seasonal shedding looks like can help you decide when a little extra grooming is all that is needed, and when it may be time to speak to your veterinary surgeon. In this guide, we explain what to expect, how to support your dog’s skin and coat, and when to seek professional advice.

If you are looking for everyday coat care, grooming support or nutritional products, you can also explore our dog skin and coat products and dog supplements at Vetscriptions.

What is seasonal shedding?

Seasonal shedding is a normal coat change that helps dogs adjust to changes in temperature and daylight. Many dogs grow a thicker coat during colder months and then shed more heavily as the weather warms up. In autumn, some dogs also shed part of their lighter summer coat as they prepare for winter.

This is often most noticeable in dogs with double coats. These breeds have a soft, dense undercoat beneath a coarser outer coat, and they can lose a surprising amount of fur during shedding season. Breeds such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, German Shepherds and Huskies commonly do this.

Dogs that live mostly indoors, where lighting and temperature are more constant, may shed more steadily throughout the year rather than in two clear seasonal bursts.

How much shedding is normal?

Normal shedding varies depending on your dog’s breed, age, health, lifestyle and coat type. Some dogs barely leave a trace, while others seem to cover the home in hair overnight.

Typical signs of normal seasonal shedding include:

• Gradual or moderate hair loss across the body rather than one isolated patch
• No obvious redness, soreness or broken skin
• No strong odour from the coat or skin
• Your dog appearing comfortable, without excessive scratching or licking
• A generally healthy-looking coat, even if more hair is being dropped than usual

If your dog is bright, comfortable and eating normally, a temporary increase in loose hair may simply be part of the natural coat cycle.

When shedding may be a sign of a problem

Although seasonal shedding is common, not all hair loss is normal. If your dog is losing fur in patches, has itchy or inflamed skin, or seems uncomfortable, there may be another cause that needs attention.

Possible causes of abnormal hair loss

• Fleas or other parasites
• Allergies, including environmental or food-related allergies
• Skin infections caused by bacteria or yeast
• Hormonal conditions such as an underactive thyroid
• Poor diet or nutritional imbalance
• Stress or excessive licking and chewing
• Underlying illness affecting overall coat condition

Flea allergy is a particularly common reason for itching and coat damage in dogs. Even if you do not see fleas, one bite can trigger significant irritation in sensitive pets. Keeping up with regular parasite prevention is an important part of skin care, and you can browse our dog flea and worming products or the wider flea, tick and worming collection if your veterinary surgeon recommends treatment.

How grooming helps during shedding season

Regular grooming is one of the best ways to manage seasonal shedding. Brushing removes loose fur before it ends up around the house and can also help distribute natural oils through the coat, which supports healthy skin.

Simple grooming tips

• Brush your dog more often during peak shedding periods
• Use a brush suited to your dog’s coat type
• Be gentle, especially if the skin looks sensitive
• Bathe only when needed, using pet-safe products
• Dry the coat thoroughly after bathing or wet walks

Over-bathing can sometimes dry the skin and make flaking or irritation worse, so it is usually best to avoid frequent washing unless your veterinary surgeon has advised it. If your dog has sensitive skin, you may find helpful options in our dog skin and coat products collection.

Can supplements support skin and coat health?

For some dogs, nutrition can make a noticeable difference to coat quality. A complete, balanced diet is the foundation of healthy skin and fur, but some pets may benefit from additional support, particularly if they have dry skin, dull coats or increased shedding.

Supplements designed for skin and coat health often contain ingredients such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins and nutrients that help maintain the skin barrier. This may support a shinier coat and healthier skin when used appropriately.

At Vetscriptions, we stock a range of premium supplements as well as everyday dog vitamins and supplements. If you are considering adding a supplement, it is sensible to check that it is suitable for your dog’s age, health status and current diet.

It is also worth remembering that supplements are not a substitute for investigating ongoing itching, bald patches or sore skin. If symptoms are persistent, your veterinary surgeon should assess the cause.

Diet and hydration matter too

A healthy coat starts from the inside. Dogs need good-quality nutrition to support normal skin turnover and hair growth. If your dog’s coat seems brittle, dry or lacklustre, it may be worth reviewing their food with your veterinary surgeon, especially if there are also digestive issues, weight changes or low energy levels.

Fresh water should always be available, as hydration plays an important role in skin health too. If you are reviewing your dog’s overall routine, you can browse our dog food and treats alongside coat care products.

When to contact your veterinary surgeon

It is best to seek veterinary advice if your dog’s shedding seems excessive, sudden or linked with other symptoms. Early checks can help identify common problems before they become more uncomfortable or more difficult to manage.

Contact your veterinary surgeon if you notice:

• Bald patches or obvious thinning of the coat
• Red, flaky, scabby or sore skin
• Persistent scratching, licking or chewing
• A bad smell from the skin or ears
• Fleas, flea dirt or signs of parasite irritation
• Changes in appetite, weight or energy levels
• Hair loss that does not improve after the shedding season

If your dog has been prescribed treatment for a skin condition, parasite problem or other health issue, we can help you order it safely through our prescription medicine service. You can also find answers to common questions in our prescription FAQs.

What about cats and small pets?

Although this article focuses on dogs, seasonal coat changes can affect other pets too. Cats may also shed more at certain times of year, particularly as the weather changes. Rabbits and other small pets moult as well, and coat changes should always be monitored for signs of poor skin health or parasites.

If you are caring for other animals at home, you can explore our cat collection and small animal collection for relevant healthcare products.

Practical ways to manage seasonal shedding at home

Living with a shedding dog is often about routine rather than trying to stop the process completely. A few simple steps can make the season easier for both you and your pet.

• Brush little and often to keep loose fur under control
• Wash bedding regularly to reduce hair build-up
• Keep up with parasite prevention throughout the year
• Feed a balanced diet suitable for your dog’s life stage
• Consider coat-support supplements if appropriate
• Watch for signs of itching, redness or discomfort

If you are unsure which products may be suitable, you are welcome to browse our wider dog collection or contact us for general help with ordering and product information.

Conclusion

Seasonal shedding in dogs is usually a normal part of life, especially in breeds with thicker coats. While it can be messy, regular grooming, a balanced diet and sensible coat support can all help keep your dog comfortable and their skin healthy. The key is knowing what is normal for your pet and recognising when hair loss may point to something more than a seasonal coat change.

If your dog’s shedding is accompanied by itching, sore skin, bald patches or any other worrying signs, it is always best to contact your veterinary surgeon for advice. And if you are looking for trusted everyday pet healthcare products, coat care support or prescribed treatments, we are here to help at Vetscriptions.

This article is intended for general guidance only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or showing concerning symptoms, please contact your veterinary surgeon.

For more support, you can explore our dog skin and coat range, browse our premium supplements, or speak to your veterinary practice about the best approach for your dog’s individual needs.