How does shedding occur in dogs? - briefly
Shedding in dogs is a natural process where old or damaged hair falls out to make way for new growth. This typically occurs due to changes in daylight, which affects the dog's coat cycle, causing it to shed seasonally.
How does shedding occur in dogs? - in detail
Shedding, or the loss of hair, is a natural process that occurs in all dogs, regardless of breed. This process is driven by hormonal changes and the life cycle of the hair follicle. Here's a detailed look at how shedding occurs in dogs:
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Hair Growth Cycle: Dogs have four distinct phases in their hair growth cycle: anagen (growth), catagen (transitional), telogen (resting), and exogen (shedding). During the anagen phase, new hair grows from the follicle. This phase lasts for a variable period, depending on the breed and age of the dog.
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Hormonal Influence: The transition between these phases is heavily influenced by hormones. Light levels, which trigger the release of certain hormones in the body, play a significant role in this process. For instance, as days get shorter in the fall, dogs may begin to shed their summer coat in preparation for winter.
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Catagen and Telogen Phases: Once the hair reaches its full length during the anagen phase, it enters the catagen phase. During this time, the hair follicle begins to shrink, and the growth of new hair slows down. This is followed by the telogen phase, where the hair remains in a resting state for some time before eventually falling out.
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Exogen Phase: The exogen phase is when shedding occurs. During this phase, the old or damaged hair falls out to make way for new growth. In dogs with double coats (like German Shepherds or Huskies), there are two types of hair follicles: primary and secondary. The primary follicles produce guard hairs, which are shed seasonally, while the secondary follicles produce a soft undercoat that sheds year-round.
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Environmental Factors: Environmental factors can also influence shedding. Stress, poor nutrition, or health issues can lead to excessive shedding or even hair loss in dogs. Additionally, indoor dogs may shed more consistently throughout the year due to stable light levels and temperature.
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Breed Differences: Different breeds of dogs have different shedding patterns and intensities. Some breeds, like Poodles and Bichon Frises, are considered non-shedding or low-shedding because their hair grows continuously and needs to be clipped regularly. However, all dogs shed to some extent.
Regular grooming can help manage shedding in dogs by removing loose hair and promoting healthy skin and coat. Understanding the shedding process can also help pet owners address any concerns about excessive shedding with their veterinarian.