Are Doodles (or any other K9 Breed) 100% Non-shedding?
If you are among those who want to own a dog but do not want your home, furniture and clothing
covered in dog hair; or are challenged by allergies, a “non-shedding” canine may seem like a dream come true!
But keep reading first.
Unfortunately, all dogs shed, even doodles. But the good news is that doodles typically shed much less than many other breeds thanks to the inclusion of the low-shedding Poodle in the doodle breed.
Just like their owners, all dogs (and cats) naturally shed excess hair that is:
- Old.
- Dry.
- Dead.
- Brittle or damaged.
Hair shedding is normal and all part of nature’s way. What does vary is the:
- Frequency of shedding; and the
- Amount of hair shedded depending upon:
- The dog’s health, breed and genetics; and
- Seasonal changes.
When Dog Shedding Becomes Too Much
So, what should you do if your low-shedding dog suddenly starts shedding excessively?
- First, rule out any health issues or conditions immediately with a visit to your vet! Excessive hair loss can be attributed to:
- Fungal or bacterial infections.
- Fleas, lice, mites or other parasites.
- Diseases of the kidney, liver, thyroid or adrenal glands (including Cushing’s Disease).
- Side effects from some medications.
- Cancer.
- Immune disease.
- Sunburn.
- Irritating substances coming into contact with the skin.
- Improve your dog’s nutrition.
- Consider a raw diet or adding nutritious raw ingredients to their daily diet.
- Provide a proper ratio of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.
- Add MSM, a bio-available sulfur, to support free radical skin damage and the proper production of collagen (a critical protein building block) and keratin (an important protective protein).
- Is your dog stressed?
- Just like with their humans, emotions can cause physical outcomes like excessive hair loss in our dogs. Changes in routines or moving, conflict in your home or the loss of a family member or pet can cause your dog to shed more hair.
- Bathe or groom your dog regularly to remove dander along with dead and damaged hair.
Hypoallergenic vs Low-Shedding
A common misconception around dog shedding is that dogs who shed very little are considered “hypoallergenic” (or cause fewer allergic reactions). But the Mayo Clinic, cautions “there’s no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog breed, although some individual dogs may cause fewer allergy symptoms than others.”
Your pet allergies are actually caused by a protein found in the saliva and urine of both dogs and cats. This protein can find its way to your pet’s fur (and dander) when they lick themselves or urine gets into their fur.
While a low-shedding or smaller dog will release less allergy-causing dander than a shedding dog, it is important to understand that no dog is completely hypoallergenic.
Natural Remedies to Address K9 Shedding
But there is some good news for those who still want to add a dog to their life! The tips below can help ou better co-exist with a canine companion.
- Smaller dogs shed less; so, consider a smaller breed.
- Use less carpeting and shampoo it often.
- Brush your dog often using a quality de-shedder tool.
- Use a HEPA purifier and vent filters to help reduce airborne allergens.
ARKANSAS BEAR CREEK GOLDENS AND DOODLES
We are a small family breeder located in the heart of the Ozarks in Northern Arkansas. We strive to raise healthy, happy, well-socialized, quality Golden Retriever, Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Mini Labradoodle, and Aussiedoodle puppies.
All our puppies come with a health guarantee for their first 12 months of age.
Please text or call us at 870-404-0127 or 870-404-1189 or use our Contact Form here for more information about upcoming litters.
