Although all dogs shed, many breeds such as the Dachshund, Havanese, Maltese, miniature poodle, Shih tzu produce very little loose fur and dander. Larger breeds include the soft-coated Wheaten terrier, the standard poodle, Airedale terrier and schnauzer. Some breeds are hairless and do not shed fur.Continue Reading
Certain hormones are triggered by the day length, affecting the amount of fur shed. Indoor pets are affected by the amount of daylight they are exposed to as well as the temperature and nutrition. In the spring, a dog typically sheds more because the thick winter coat is being replaced by a light summer coat.
Shedding typically falls into two different patterns. A dog with a double-coat drops his softer undercoat twice a year and the topcoat once a year. Typically, the fur comes out all at once in large chunks. Other dogs shed continuously all year round; indoor animals are more likely to fall into this pattern.
To minimize shedding, a dog should be brushed regularly. This prevents the hair from spreading and instead collects it in the brush. Frequent vacuuming is key; a HEPA filter that is designed for pet hair may be necessary. Clean the dog's bedding often and keep clothing clean and free of hair to prevent allergies. Hardwood floors can also help prevent hair from accumulating.Learn more about Dogs