How to Manage Your Dog's Shedding: 10 Useful Tips

If you’ve got a dog that sheds (and most do!), you’re probably used to finding fur on your clothes, couch, and just about every corner of the house. Trust me, I’ve been there — lint rollers in every room, vacuum running on overtime. But over the years, I’ve found some simple habits that really help keep the shedding under control — and your home a little more hair-free.

Here’s what’s worked for me and many fellow dog lovers:

1. Brush, brush, brush (the right way).
Regular brushing is hands down the most effective way to manage shedding. It removes loose hair before it ends up all over your house — and it feels great for your pup, too. It also spreads their natural oils, which keeps their skin healthy and their coat shiny.

The key is using the right brush for your dog’s coat type. A slicker brush works for most breeds, but for heavy shedders like Labs or Huskies, a de-shedding tool or shedding blade can make a huge difference. During spring and fall (a.k.a. major shed seasons), I brush daily. Otherwise, a few times a week does the trick for most dogs.

2. Don’t skip bath time — but don’t overdo it either.
Bathing helps loosen and remove extra fur, but too many baths can backfire and dry out your dog’s skin, which leads to more shedding. Stick to once every 4–6 weeks unless your vet says otherwise.

Always use a gentle dog shampoo (never human shampoo — it’s too harsh for their skin). Rinse thoroughly, condition if needed, and dry completely. I like to use a towel followed by a hairdryer on cool to get all the moisture out and prevent tangles.

3. Feed for coat health.
What your dog eats shows up in their coat. A high-quality, balanced diet with plenty of protein and omega-3s can do wonders for reducing shedding. Look for food that lists real meat or fish as the first ingredient and skip the cheap fillers like corn or wheat.

Some dogs benefit from a fish oil supplement — always ask your vet first. Hydration matters too. Make sure your dog always has fresh water available. Dry, flaky skin from dehydration can mean more loose fur.

4. Keep the fur (and dander) from taking over your home.
Even with grooming and diet dialed in, some hair is going to get loose. I vacuum frequently (a model with a HEPA filter really helps with allergens), wipe down surfaces with a damp microfiber cloth, and wash dog beds and blankets weekly.

Lint rollers and sticky tape are must-haves — I keep one in the car, my bag, and by the door. They’re perfect for last-minute de-furring before heading out.

5. Use the right tools for the job.
A de-shedding tool or shedding blade can seriously cut down on excess fur — especially for double-coated breeds. Just be gentle and don’t overuse them, especially on sensitive spots like the belly or legs.

6. Consider a pro groomer.
If your dog sheds like crazy or you’re just overwhelmed, a trip to the groomer can be a game-changer. They’ve got high-velocity dryers and specialized tools that remove a ton of undercoat in one session. Plus, they can spot skin issues early and give coat care advice tailored to your dog.

7. Allergies in the house? Take extra steps.
If someone in your home has allergies, shedding can cause more than a mess — it can trigger symptoms like sneezing or itchy eyes. In addition to cleaning and grooming, try using an air purifier with a HEPA filter. It helps trap dander and hair floating in the air.

And for allergy sufferers, talk to your doctor about meds that can help keep symptoms in check — especially during peak shedding months.

Shedding might be a fact of life with dogs, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. With the right routine and a little effort, you can keep your home (and your clothes) mostly fur-free — and your pup feeling healthy and happy.