Shedding Season is here again!
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from living with six working dogs, it’s that shedding is an inevitable part of life. My two golden retrievers and four cocker spaniels seem to leave a trail of hair wherever they go – especially as the seasons change! While some shedding is perfectly normal, excessive hair loss or dull, dry fur can be a sign that your dog’s diet needs a closer look.
Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin and a glossy coat, and the right pet food can make all the difference in reducing shedding. So, if you’re wondering about the best dog food to reduce shedding, let’s explore how a balanced diet supports coat health and which foods might be the perfect fit for your dog.
Why Do Dogs Shed?
Shedding is a natural process for most dog breeds – it allows old, damaged hair to be replaced by new growth. However, some factors can contribute to excessive shedding, including:
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Diet deficiencies – A lack of essential fatty acids, amino acids, and vitamins and minerals can weaken the hair follicles, leading to increased shedding.
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Food sensitivities or allergic reactions – Some dogs may react to certain ingredients in their diet, causing skin irritation and hair loss.
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Health issues – Conditions like hypothyroidism or stress can contribute to shedding and bald patches.
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Seasonal changes – Dogs naturally shed more in the spring and autumn as they transition between winter and summer coats.
While you can’t stop your dog from shedding completely, choosing the best dog food for shedding dogs and proper grooming management can help minimise it and promote a shiny coat.
The link Between Diet and Shedding
A dog’s coat is made up of 90% protein, so it’s no surprise that diet plays a key role in keeping fur strong and healthy. I find feeding my dogs a diet rich in high-quality protein, essential fatty acids, and key vitamins and minerals can help support hair growth and reduce excessive shedding.
The best diet for reducing shedding should include:
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High-quality protein – Supports hair follicles and maintains a strong coat.
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Omega-3 & Omega-6 fatty acids – Help nourish the skin and reduce inflammation that can lead to excess hair loss.
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Biotin and Vitamin E – Essential for healthy skin and coat.
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Zinc and Copper – Promote natural oil production, which helps prevent dry skin.
Does Raw Dog Food Help with Shedding?
Many pet parents wonder, does raw dog food help with shedding? The answer is yes! A raw diet provides the high-quality protein and essential fatty acids needed for a healthy skin and coat. However, ensuring a properly balanced raw diet can be tricky and messy, which is why our Freeze-Dried Raw food is such a great, convenient option.
Our Freeze-Dried Raw combines the benefits of raw feeding with the convenience of dry food, making it one of the best dog foods for hair shedding. It’s packed with natural amino acids and healthy fats to support hair growth while being gentle on digestion. Plus, it can be fed as a complete meal or used as a topper to boost your dog’s diet.
Best Dog Food to Reduce Shedding
If you’re looking for the best dog food to stop shedding, we have some fantastic options available to suit dogs of all ages:
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Freeze-Dried Raw – Rich in natural omega oils and high-quality protein, supporting healthy skin and coat.
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Kibble + Raw – The perfect combination of high-protein kibble and a raw boost.
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Cold-Pressed – A fantastic natural choice, especially for dogs needing a low-fat diet. It retains natural omega oils and is gentle on the stomach, making it ideal for dogs with food and skin sensitivities.
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Toppers & Treats – Our range of Freeze-Dried Treats, Toppers and Air-Dried Treats are great for adding a nutrient boost to your dog’s diet without unnecessary fillers.
All of these options contain the essential nutrients needed for a shiny coat and reduced shedding while avoiding artificial additives that can trigger skin irritation.
Additional Tips to Reduce Shedding
Alongside feeding your dog the right diet, here are a few of my top tips to help control shedding:
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Brush your dog regularly – This helps remove loose fur before it ends up all over your furniture. For more grooming tips, check out my blog!
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Hydrate their meals – Dehydration can lead to dry skin, making shedding worse.
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Monitor for food sensitivities – If you notice excessive shedding alongside itching or digestive issues, consider switching to a grain-free or limited-ingredient diet.
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Weigh your dog and adjust their diet accordingly – Maintaining a good body score and balanced diet is also key to controlling hair health and loss. Check out my blog on “How to manage your dog’s weight” for more information!
Finding the Best Dog Food for Dry Skin and Shedding
Every dog is different, and finding the best dry dog food for shedding depends on your dog’s individual needs. Whether you opt for our Freeze-Dried Raw, Kibble + Raw, or Cold-Pressed, ensuring your dog is getting high-quality protein, essential fatty acids, and the right balance of vitamins and minerals is key to reducing shedding and maintaining a healthy coat.
If you’re unsure where to start, our in-house nutritionist is always on hand to offer free advice on feeding your dog for optimal coat health. After all, a well-fed dog isn’t just happier – they’re healthier, shinier and (hopefully) shedding a little less too!
Until next time,
James x
