Why Dogs Lose More Fur in Fall (and How to Manage It)
If you’ve noticed your dog’s coat covering every couch, corner, and sweater this fall, you’re not imagining it—autumn shedding is real, and there’s fascinating science behind it. Dogs shed year-round to keep their skin and coat healthy, but they experience two major shedding seasons: one in spring and another in fall.
This seasonal “coat blow” is a natural biological process that helps dogs regulate their body temperature and prepare for upcoming weather changes. Still, it can leave even the most devoted pet parents wondering: Why now, and what can I do about it?
Let’s explore why dogs shed more during fall, which breeds shed most heavily, and how to manage the extra fur effectively and safely.
The Science Behind Seasonal Shedding
A dog’s coat isn’t just fur—it’s a complex biological system that responds to changes in daylight, temperature, and environment. The main driver behind shedding isn’t the weather itself, but photoperiod, or the number of hours of daylight your dog is exposed to.
As days grow shorter in the fall, the reduced light triggers a hormonal response, telling the body to shed the lightweight summer coat and grow a denser winter undercoat for insulation. This is particularly noticeable in double-coated breeds, who have both:
A soft, dense undercoat for warmth
A coarser topcoat (guard hair) for protection
Spring shedding: Dogs lose their heavy winter undercoat to stay cooler.
Fall shedding: They shed the lighter summer fur to make room for a thick, insulating layer before winter.
This natural cycle helps maintain skin health, body temperature, and even scent distribution (which can be important for communication in some breeds).
Breeds That Shed the Most in Fall
Not all dogs are created equal when it comes to shedding. The amount and intensity depend largely on coat type and genetics.
Heavy Shedders (Double-Coated Breeds)
These breeds tend to have noticeable “blowouts” twice a year:
Golden Retrievers – Their thick undercoat and feathered fur can shed profusely in clumps.
Siberian Huskies & Alaskan Malamutes – Bred for extreme cold, they have one of the heaviest coat blows each fall.
German Shepherds – Sometimes jokingly called “German Shedders” for their year-round and seasonal shedding.
Labrador Retrievers – Short, dense double coats that shed heavily, even outside of shedding season.
Samoyeds & Akitas – Their plush coats require consistent maintenance during coat change.
Moderate Shedders
Corgis – Both Pembroke and Cardigan Corgis have thick double coats that shed consistently but more noticeably in fall and spring.
Shiba Inus – These compact dogs experience dense seasonal shedding cycles despite their smaller size.
Border Collies – Working breeds with weather-resistant coats that shed in predictable seasonal patterns.
Low Shedders (Single-Coated Breeds)
Poodles, Bichon Frises, Portuguese Water Dogs, and Maltese have single-layer coats that grow continuously rather than seasonally.
These dogs lose less hair, but they require regular grooming to prevent matting.
Other Factors That Influence Shedding
While seasonal changes are the main driver, other factors can intensify or alter a dog’s shedding pattern:
Nutrition: A poor diet or nutrient imbalance can weaken the hair shaft and lead to excessive loss. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, protein, zinc, and vitamin E are critical for coat health.
Stress and anxiety: Stress hormones like cortisol can cause temporary shedding, especially after major changes like moving, travel, or vet visits.
Skin and health conditions: Allergies, parasites, infections, or hormonal imbalances (like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease) can cause patchy or irregular shedding.
Age: Puppies shed their “puppy coat” around 4–6 months of age, while seniors may shed more due to hormonal or skin changes.
If you notice bald patches, redness, or constant itching, schedule a vet visit—those are signs of something more than seasonal shedding.
How to Manage Fall Shedding
While you can’t stop shedding (nor should you), you can minimize it and keep your dog’s coat healthy with a proactive routine.
1. Brush Frequently
Brushing removes loose hair before it hits the floor and helps distribute natural oils that keep the coat healthy.
Use a deshedding tool or undercoat rake for heavy shedders like Huskies and Shepherds.
Use a slicker brush for long-haired breeds like Golden Retrievers or Collies.
For short-haired dogs, a rubber curry brush or grooming glove works best.
Aim to brush daily during peak shedding season.
2. Bathe Strategically
A bath every 4–6 weeks can help loosen and wash away dead hair. Always use a gentle, pH-balanced dog shampoo, followed by a conditioner for moisture retention.
For breeds with dense coats, consider using a high-velocity dryer to blow out loose fur after a bath (a common groomer trick).
3. Maintain a Balanced Diet
High-quality food rich in essential fatty acids promotes strong hair growth and reduces shedding intensity. Look for formulas with:
Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil, salmon oil)
Biotin and zinc for coat structure
Protein from real meat sources
Adding fish oil or flaxseed oil supplements (with vet approval) can make a visible difference in coat texture and shedding.
4. Keep Your Home Fur-Ready
Regular cleaning makes a huge difference:
Use a vacuum designed for pet hair—models with HEPA filters help capture dander and allergens.
Wash your dog’s bedding weekly.
Use lint rollers or reusable pet hair removers for furniture and clothing.
5. Schedule Regular Grooming
Professional groomers can de-shed your dog with specialized tools and blowers, saving you hours at home. Many groomers recommend booking deshedding sessions twice yearly—in spring and fall—for heavy-shedding breeds.
When Does Fall Shedding End?
Most dogs complete their fall coat transition within 4–8 weeks, depending on breed and local climate. Northern breeds or those living in cooler regions may take longer, while indoor dogs might shed at a slower, steadier rate.
Once the thick winter undercoat has grown in, shedding typically stabilizes until spring’s next coat change.
The Bottom Line
Shedding isn’t just an annoyance—it’s a vital biological process that keeps your dog healthy and comfortable. By understanding the science of photoperiod-driven coat changes, you can better anticipate and manage the fall shed.
With consistent grooming, proper nutrition, and attention to coat health, you’ll support your dog’s natural rhythms—and keep your home a little less furry along the way.
Sources
American Kennel Club (AKC) – Understanding Dog Shedding and Coat Care
VCA Animal Hospitals – The Canine Coat: Health, Function, and Shedding
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine – Hair Growth and Seasonal Shedding in Dogs
University of Guelph, Ontario Veterinary College – Photoperiod and Coat Cycle Regulation in Domestic Dogs
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) – Hair Follicle Growth Cycles and Hormonal Regulation in Mammals
