Shedding is normal. Dogs and cats lose old and damaged hair all year, and many shed more in spring and fall as their coats change. You can't stop shedding, but you can catch loose fur on the brush instead of on your furniture.
Why regular brushing helps
Brushing removes loose undercoat before it falls out around the house. It also spreads natural skin oils through the coat, helps you spot ticks, lumps or skin problems early, and, for many pets, it's a relaxing bonding moment.
A simple weekly routine
- Brush 2–3 times a week, or every day during heavy shedding season. Short sessions of 5–10 minutes are plenty.
- Brush in the direction the hair grows, starting at the neck and working back. Be gentle around the belly, legs and tail.
- Use the right tool for the job. A grooming glove works well for short coats and for pets that dislike brushes. A deshedding or steam brush helps lift loose undercoat on medium and thick coats.
- Bathe only when needed. For most dogs, every 4–8 weeks is enough. Use a pet shampoo, never human shampoo. A silicone bath brush helps work shampoo down to the skin.
- Clean up the rest. A reusable lint roller pulls fur off the couch, bedding and clothes without sticky refills.
Make grooming stress-free
- Start with short sessions and reward calm behavior with treats.
- Groom after a walk or play session, when your pet is more relaxed.
- A lick mat with a little wet food stuck to the wall is a great distraction during baths.
When shedding isn't normal
Talk to your vet if you notice bald patches, red or flaky skin, constant scratching, or a sudden change in how much your pet sheds. These can be signs of allergies, parasites or other health problems.
Tools that help
- Pet Grooming Glove: easy brushing for short coats and nervous pets.
- 3-in-1 Steam Pet Brush: lifts loose fur with a light mist.
- Silicone Dog Bath Brush: works shampoo in during bath time.
- Pet Hair Remover Roller: reusable fur remover for furniture and clothes.
Find more grooming and comfort essentials in our Home & Care collection.