Spring is finally here – and that means it's time to shed more than just your winter coat. Your dog is probably doing the same (but with way more fluff). At YMOAs, we get it. Pet hair on the couch, your clothes, and basically every surface? Been there. But don’t worry – with the right approach, you can turn shedding season into a breeze.

Here’s how to help your furry bestie feel fresh, comfortable and ready for all your sunny adventures together.

What’s Up with All That Shedding?

Dogs are clever little creatures. When temperatures drop in winter, many breeds grow a thick undercoat to keep warm. As the weather warms up, they start losing that layer – nature’s way of putting on a T-shirt instead of a parka.

Breeds like Huskies, Retrievers, and Shepherds are especially prone to what's dramatically called "blowing their coat." It's like a mini snowstorm of fur (minus the cold). Indoor dogs or short-haired breeds tend to shed a bit more evenly throughout the year, but they’re not completely off the hook either.

So, if you’re suddenly finding fur tumbleweeds under the table – that’s totally normal.

Signs Your Dog Is in Full-On Shed Mode

Here’s how you know your dog’s coat is shifting into spring gear:

• Tufts of fluffy undercoat falling out like crazy

• Hair on your clothes, couch, car – you name it

• Patches of extra-thick fur poking out

• Way more fur stuck in your brush than usual

If your pup’s skin looks healthy (no redness, sores, or bald patches) and they’re acting normal, you’re just witnessing the seasonal switch.

Groom Like a Pro: Tips for Managing Shedding

Regular grooming = less fur floating around your home AND a happier dog. It’s a win-win.

Brush it out
During peak shedding (hi, spring), aim to brush your dog daily. Not only does it remove loose hair, but it also keeps their coat shiny, prevents tangles, and gives you a great bonding moment. Choose the right tool for your dog:

• Short hair? Try a rubber grooming glove or curry brush.

• Double coat? Use a slicker brush and undercoat rake to really get into that fluffy layer.

Not a fan of brushing every day?
We get it. Life’s busy. A professional de-shedding session can work wonders – especially if your dog has a super thick coat or you want to start the season with a fresh, clean slate.

Bathing Tips: Scrub, Rinse, Refresh

A warm-weather coat deserves a good cleanse.

Bathing helps remove dead fur and refreshes your dog’s skin. A spring bath session is perfect for loosening that thick winter fluff. But keep it balanced – bathing too often can strip away natural oils and dry out the skin.

Our rule of paw:

• Bathe every few weeks or when needed

• Use a dog-specific shampoo (not your 3-in-1 minty body wash, please)

• Towel dry or use a pet-safe dryer – and don’t forget to brush again afterward

Feed That Fur: Nutrition & Hydration Matter

Healthy coat = healthy dog food.

Your dog’s diet plays a major role in how their skin and fur look and feel. Omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and proper hydration all keep the coat glossy and shedding under control. So make sure your pup’s food is packed with the good stuff.

And always – always – keep that water bowl full, especially when temps rise.

When to Call Your Vet

Sometimes, it’s not just shedding.

Keep an eye out for these red flags:

• Bald patches or thinning fur

• Red or irritated skin

• Scabs, bumps, or weird smells

• Constant scratching or licking

These symptoms could signal allergies, infections, or parasites – and that’s vet territory. Better safe than sorry.

Keep It Cool: Summer Safety for Fluffy Friends

You might be tempted to give your double-coated dog a summer shave. Don’t. Seriously.

Their fur is built to insulate – it actually keeps them cool by trapping air and blocking out the sun. Shaving can mess with this natural system and even lead to sunburn or overheating.

Instead:

• Keep them brushed and clean

• Offer shade and fresh water

• Walk early in the morning or later in the evening

• Watch for signs of heatstroke (panting, drooling, low energy)

Want to go the extra mile? Our Cooling Bandana is the ultimate summer upgrade. With quick-drying, cold-feeling cloth and a reusable cooling pad, it gives your pup up to two hours of refreshing relief. Perfect for hot afternoon strolls. Grab one here and make your dog the coolest pup on the block. Literally.

Your Warm Weather Coat Care Checklist:

✔ Daily brushing (especially for double-coated dogs)
✔ Occasional bath with dog-friendly shampoo
✔ High-quality diet with healthy fats
✔ Plenty of water
✔ Shade, rest, and cooling products
✔ No shaving – seriously, just don’t
✔ Vet check if anything seems off

At YMOAs, we’re here to make every season with your dog feel like the best one yet. Whether it's a trail hike in spring or a beach walk in summer, a happy coat makes for a happy pup – and a happier you.

Join the pack. Explore our innovative, dog-approved essentials to make your adventures easier, safer, and a whole lot cooler.

References

1. ASPCA – Dog Grooming Tips​
2. VCA Hospitals – Coat and Skin Appearance in the Healthy Dog​
3. Zoetis Petcare – Tips for Living with a Heavy-Shedding Dog​
4. American Humane – Spring Into Pet Care: Groom and Prepare for Shedding Season​
5. AKC – Dog Shedding: What to Expect and How to Manage It​
6. VCA Hospitals – How often should I bathe my dog?​
7. VCA Hospitals – Nutrition and Skin/Coat Health​
8. PetMD – Keeping Your Pet Cool in the Summer Heat​
9. ASPCA – Dog Grooming Tips: Shedding & Excessive Hair Loss​
10. PetMD – Why Do Dogs Shed?​
11. AKC – Should You Shave Your Dog in the Summer?