Samoyed dogs are known for their beautiful, thick and fluffy coats, but too much shedding can be a concern for many pet owners. There are several reasons why Samoyed dogs lose more hair than usual.
Characteristic of variety
The Samoyed has a double coat, consisting of a soft, thick inner coat and a longer, thicker outer coat. This type of coat is designed to protect them from the harsh, cold climate of their homeland. The undercoat is especially thick and acts as insulation. As a natural process, Samoyed dogs remove their undercoat seasonally to adapt to changing temperatures. In the spring, they shed their heavy winter undercoat in preparation for the warmer months; In the fall, they will begin to grow thicker inner hairs to cope with the cold. This shedding is a normal and important part of the maintenance of their coat. For example, during spring waxing, you may find white fur all over your home, on your furniture, and even in the air. This can seem like a never-ending process as the undercoat loosens and then comes out in clumps.
age
Puppies and old Samoyed dogs may have different shedding patterns. Puppies usually have softer, finer coats that will begin to shed as they grow and develop. This initial shedding is part of their transition to adulthood. When they reach about a year of age, their adult fur will begin to fully develop and the frequency and amount of shedding may change. On the other hand, older Samoyed dogs may experience more shedding due to age-related changes in skin and coat health. Their skin may become less elastic and their coat may not be as healthy as it once was. For example, an older Samoyed dog‘s coat may become dull and shed more as the body’s ability to maintain a healthy coat decreases.
Diet and nutrition
The diet quality of the Samoyed dog has an important effect on the health and shedding of its coat. A diet lacking essential nutrients, such as protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, can lead to poor coat condition and increased shedding. Protein is essential for building and maintaining the structure of the hair shaft. If a Samoyed dog does not get enough high-quality protein, its coat may become brittle and break easily, leading to more shedding. Healthy fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are essential for skin health and shine. A lack of these fats can lead to dry, itchy skin, which can lead to excessive scratching and shedding. For example, a Samoyed dog whose diet consists mostly of low-quality coarse meal, with little real meat source and no added supplements, is more likely to have more fur than a dog with a well-balanced, well-fed diet. Eating protein-rich foods such as chicken, fish or lamb and adding supplements such as fish oil can help improve fur health and reduce shedding.
Health status
Various health problems can cause Samoyed dogs to shed more. Skin infections, such as bacterial or fungal infections, can disrupt the normal growth and shedding cycle of the coat. Fungal infections like ringworm can cause hair loss in round patches and increased shedding in these areas. Parasites, such as fleas, ticks, and mites, can also cause skin irritation and excessive scratching, which can lead to more shedding. For example, a flea-infected Samoyed dog may constantly scratch and bite its skin, resulting in damaged hair follicles and severe hair loss. Hormonal imbalances, such as hypothyroidism, can affect metabolism and the health of skin and fur. Samoyed dogs with hypothyroidism may have a dull, sparse coat and shed more than normal. In addition, allergies, whether food allergies or environmental allergies, can lead to itchy skin and subsequent shedding. For example, if a Samoyed is allergic to pollen, it may experience itchiness, red skin and start shedding more fur during pollen season.
Stress and anxiety
Samoyed dogs are sensitive dogs and stress can negatively affect the health of their coat. Family changes, such as a new baby, moving to a new home, or adding a new pet, can cause stress. Separation anxiety is also common in Samoyed dogs. When a dog is stressed or anxious, it disrupts the normal hormonal balance and affects the skin and coat. This can lead to more shedding. For example, if a Samoyed is left alone for long periods of time and suffers from separation anxiety, it may start shedding more because of stress. Providing a calm and stable environment, using pheromone diffusers or calming supplements, and gradually acclimating the dog to the changes can help reduce stress-related shedding.
Develop the habit
Proper grooming is essential to Samoyed coat health and shedding control. If a Samoyed dog is not regularly groomed, its coat can become knotted and tangled. Matting traps dirt, debris, and dead hair, which can lead to skin problems and increased shedding. Brushing your Samoyed regularly helps remove loose hair and prevents tangles. During the season of hair loss, you need to brush your teeth more frequently. For example, using a sliding brush or undercoat rake can effectively remove loose undercoat. Bathing a Samoyean too often or using harsh shampoos can also strip the natural oils from its coat, leading to dry skin and more shedding. Proper grooming routines should include regular brushing, occasional baths with a gentle dog-friendly shampoo, and trimming the hair around PAWS, ears, and other areas as needed.
Environmental factor
The environment in which a Samoyed dog lives can affect its shedding. Temperature and humidity also play a role. In hot, humid environments, Samoyed dogs may lose more fur as their bodies cool down. In this case, the coat may become less healthy, leading to increased shedding. Dry air, such as in indoor environments heated in winter, can also cause skin to dry out and shed more. Exposure to sunlight and UV rays can damage the coat if the dog stays outdoors for long periods of time without proper protection. For example, a Samoyed dog that lives in a hot and sunny climate and spends most of its time in an area with no shade may have a coat that is more likely to be damaged and shed than a dog that lives in a cool, shady area.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnant or lactating female Samoyed dogs may experience changes in coat and shedding. During pregnancy, hormonal changes affect the growth and shedding of the coat. During labor and breastfeeding, the female’s body needs a lot of nutrients to support milk production. If her diet does not accommodate these increased demands, her fur may suffer and she may lose more fur. For example, nursing Samoyed dogs may require a diet high in protein and fat to support their own health and the growth of the puppies.
genetics
Genes also play a role in the shedding of Samoyed dogs. Some Samoyed dogs may have inherited a tendency to have a thicker undercoat or a more active shedding cycle. If a Samoyed comes from a heavily shed dog line, it is more likely to shed more on its own. Breeders who focus on producing Samoyed dogs with specific coat characteristics may also influence the shedding patterns of their offspring. For example, a breeder who emphasizes very thick and fluffy coats may unknowingly breed dogs that shed more than those with slightly thinner coats or a different coat.
Sport and activity levels
The movement and activity level of a Samoyed dog can affect its shedding. Regular exercise helps improve blood circulation, which is good for the health of the skin and fur. A sedentary Samoyed may have a less healthy coat and more shedding. Proper exercise can also help reduce stress, which, as mentioned earlier, can affect hair loss. For example, a Samoyed dog that walks daily, plays in a fenced yard, or participates in activities such as agility training, will have a better chance of maintaining a healthy coat and losing less hair than most inactive dogs.
Conclusion
If your Samoyed is shedding more than you think, it’s important to consider all of these factors. Watch for any accompanying symptoms, such as skin redness, itching, or behavioral changes. If you suspect a health problem, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian. A veterinarian can perform a physical examination, perform blood tests or tests such as skin scraping to check for infections or hormone imbalances, and provide advice on diet, grooming, and overall care to help manage a Samoyan’s shedding and keep its coat healthy.
Related topics
