Symptoms of Puppy's Molt: Identifying shedding stages

Section 1: When Do Puppies Start to Change Their Fur?

Typically, puppies begin to shed their puppy fur around the age of 3 months. This process can take a considerable amount of time, with the transition to dense, adult fur not being complete until the puppy is between 7 to 8 months old. During this period, pet owners can take certain steps to assist their puppy in a quicker and healthier coat change. It's beneficial to provide additional nutrients such as fish oil, egg yolks, cooked meats, or other foods rich in lecithin. Supplementing with lecithin can promote healthy, shiny, and soft fur. Moreover, ensuring your puppy receives adequate vitamins, trace elements, and minerals can greatly aid in the coat change process.

In addition, regular grooming is essential. Pet owners should comb their puppy's coat 2 to 3 times a day to facilitate the shedding of old fur and to accelerate the growth of new, vibrant hair.

Section 2: When Do Dogs Experience Hair Loss?

After the puppy coat has been shed, dogs will undergo two seasonal shedding episodes each year, usually coinciding with the transitions between spring and autumn. These shedding times typically fall around March to May and September to November. In spring, dogs shed their thick winter coat to prepare for the warmer weather and to adapt to the changing climate. In autumn, they shed their summer hair to grow a warmer, insulating undercoat to prepare for the cold winter months.

Section 3: Tips for Managing Dog Hair Loss

Given that the hair loss process can be lengthy, pet owners can take the following measures to support their dog's coat change:

1. Frequent Grooming

During shedding, it's important for pet owners to increase the frequency of grooming. This not only helps in removing old fur but also promotes blood circulation, leading to healthier and more lustrous hair growth.

2. Nutritional Supplementation

New hair growth requires a significant amount of nutrients. Therefore, it's crucial to maintain a balanced diet for your dog during this phase. Foods rich in omega3 fatty acids and lecithin, such as fish oil, can be particularly beneficial for maintaining your dog's coat health and promoting hair growth and vitality.

3. Preventing Matting

Regular grooming can prevent the accumulation of loose fur, which can lead to mats and hairballs. This not only affects the growth of new hair but also detracts from your dog's appearance.

That concludes our discussion on dog shedding with Oxygen Pet Doctor. Under normal circumstances, shedding is a natural process that can be managed with regular grooming and proper nutrition. However, if your dog is experiencing abnormal hair loss due to illness or other health issues, it's important to seek a diagnosis and treatment promptly.