When it is the shedding season, owners are quite troubled as dog hair is everywhere at home. However, many dog owners are still confused about what kind of shedding is normal and what kind requires a visit to the vet. Starting with the season, dogs shed in spring because they need to replace old hair with new hair, which is a normal phenomenon. Generally, the loss of old hair is because new hair grows and pushes it out. If a dog sheds hair in strands and the skin color is normal, this is considered normal shedding.

Bichon Frise (Detailed Introduction)

　　At this time, owners are best advised to use a professional dog brush to groom them to help the old hair fall off quickly. Usually, within 1—3 weeks, the dog can complete its shedding. However, if old hair falls off in patches and the skin shows ringworm, many small red bumps, or if the dog constantly scratches certain skin areas, caution is needed. Such hair loss is abnormal and the dog should be taken to the hospital for examination as soon as possible.
　　Besides this, improper diet can also cause abnormal hair loss. Many dogs shed because they eat too much meat. This results in unbalanced nutrition, reducing the skin’s resistance. Eating normal dog food fully meets the skin’s needs, so even during shedding periods, no extra nutrition supplements are necessary. Furthermore, frequent bathing can also cause hair loss. Bathing dogs regularly to maintain hygiene is good intentioned, but too frequent bathing is not good. This is because dogs’ skin naturally has a layer of protective oil, and frequent bathing damages the skin’s self-regulation and maintenance ability. If the dog has a fungal infection, frequent baths will expand the infection and cause large-area hair loss. Washing only the paws and belly daily and thorough cleaning every two to three weeks is recommended. Don’t use too much shampoo. If too much shampoo is used and the dog hair is dense, it is difficult to rinse thoroughly, and shampoo residue left on the skin can also irritate hair loss. Regular medicated baths can be given, and extra care taken with diet during season changes.