Lots of dogs will celebrate the season by shedding their thick, soft winter undercoat for a breezier summer fur. And many dog-loving humans will start noticing extra piles of fluff getting in the way of their spring cleaning.

Shedding is part of a dog’s natural rhythm, allowing them to adjust to changing seasons and temperatures. Shedding patterns vary by breed, and some dogs don’t shed noticeably at all, so the best way to care for your pup this season will depend on their individual needs.

Many double coated dogs–breeds like huskies, retrievers, and shepherds–shed more during this time and require daily coat care to stay on top of all that fur. Hypoallergenic dogs like poodles, on the other hand, don’t shed very much and may be comfortable sticking to their year-round grooming routine.

Shedding season can be tough on dog owners, as excess fur can carry allergens and cause flare-ups. Not to mention the constant mess! The best way to stay on top of shedding is frequent brushing and thorough bathing. Spring is also a great time for a trip to the groomer so they can help shed some of that extra fluff.

Daily brushing will help catch loose fur before it falls all over the house and can relieve your pup from itching and shaking off their fluff. Brushing also helps prevent tangles and matting, which can be painful, irritating, and can even cause serious skin problems.

Bathing your pup (and brushing them once they’re clean and dry) will help remove fur and dead skin from their coat, which can also help reduce the allergens they spread.

Avoid some of the mess of spring shedding by stopping by Dog’s Day Out for a DIY or full-service dog wash or make an appointment with our groomer Andy for expert seasonal defluffing. Call 612.255.3425 or email info@dogsdaympls.com for full-service bathing and grooming appointments. No reservations needed for self-service baths.

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The advice provided is based on many years of experience as dog parents and operators of one of the largest and longest established dog daycare and boarding facilities in the Twin Cities. Always consult your veterinarian. When not sharing advice, our dog bloggers — Frannie, Lyle, and Helen — share a space with their people, Downtown Dogs owner Ralph Bernstein and his wife, Abbe.”