What to Do When a Golden Retriever Sheds Excessively All Over

1 Overview

Causes of Shedding in Golden Retrievers

Normally, Golden Retrievers enter a shedding season in March-April and July-September each year, losing far more fur than usual, but it grows back quickly and needs no worry. Besides this seasonal physiological shedding, other causes can cause heavy hair loss.

1. Too much salt in the daily diet makes the coat fall out more and become brittle and rough.

2. Lack of essential vitamins and minerals also causes shedding.

3. A sick or timid dog kept indoors too long without enough exercise and sunlight will also shed heavily.

4. Bathing too often destroys the skin’s protective barrier. Using human shampoo makes it worse, causing dryness, flaking, shedding, and redness.

What to Do About Severe Shedding

First observe whether the shedding is physiological or pathological.

1. During the shedding season, just groom regularly with a suitable comb; no need to worry.

2. Do not bathe too frequently; use a pet-specific shampoo with the right pH. Rinse all foam thoroughly and dry completely to avoid skin problems.

3. If the dog keeps biting or licking one spot, check the skin; if you see flaking, scabs, or redness, take it to a vet to identify the skin disease and treat it.

4. Feed a light diet and avoid human food. You can give a B-complex multivitamin tablet to boost skin and mucosal immunity and reduce shedding. Appropriate fish oil and lecithin also support skin and coat health.

Most common dog diseases stem from poor hygiene and parasites, so keep things clean and deworm regularly. For urgent or severe symptoms, visit a vet or consult an online veterinarian.