On occasion, almost all dogs will shed their coats to some degree.
However, ’tis true when they say that German Shepherd puppies are prolific shedders! This means they shed all year around. Sure, the weather plays a part of how much, but the shedding never really ends. The biggest factor that plays a role in slowing it down a bit is their diet. There’s help! Read on to learn 7 tips to regulate the shedding of German Shepherd puppies.
- Feed German Shepherd puppies high quality diets.
One of the most effective ways of reducing shedding is to provide a healthy diet. Inexpensive dog foods are primarily comprised of ingredients that are difficult for German Shepherd puppies, (and dogs in general) to digest, such as corn and grain. Find food that has meat as the main ingredient.
- “Treat” your dog to human food occasionally.
We’re using the word “treat” modestly, so don’t go overboard. Foods like bananas, sliced apples (without the seeds), cucumbers, and lean meats are all moisture rich foods that will help your German Shepherd puppies to stay hydrated. These foods also keep their coats shiny and smooth, thus reduces the shedding.
- Add olive oil or flaxseed oil to your German Shepherd’s food.
Begin by giving 1 tsp. (5 mL) per 10 pounds (4.5 kg.) of his body weight. These oils contain omega-3 fatty acids that helps to calm inflamed skin, decrease dandruff, and improve their overall coat texture.
- Ensure your German Shepherd has access to clean, fresh drinking water at all times.
As we’ve previously mentioned, moisture rich foods keep your pups hydrated. The same, obviously, goes for water. Dehydration can lead to dry skin, which can cause excessive shedding and also illnesses.
- Prior to spring season, invest in and use deshedding tools.
Before German Shepherd puppies have their winter coats fall off, deshed them. You want to do this in the fall, as well. Lest you forget, your furniture, carpets, and clothes won’t!
- Every day is “brush” day.
To truly stay on top of your pup’s incessant shedding, you must brush him every day. There are no exceptions. Grooming German Shepherd puppies daily removes excess and loose fur and redistributes your German Shepherd’s skin oils into its fur.
- Give your German Shepherd regular baths.
Typical adult German Shepherds usually only needs a bath three or four times a year, that is if you’re brushing him on a regular basis! His hair will fall off in the tub or bathing area and not on your floor or furniture! Be careful not give him too many baths, as this will defeat the purpose by drying out his skin, and thus causing more shedding.
