Why is my dog shedding heavily? Is it normal or a health concern?

Question

Our dog has started to shed heavily. Is this a medical concern or just a dog loosing its fur? He is a rescue but we think he’s an Akita/Perneese mix. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 11 months and 13 days old | 55 lbs

Andrea M. Brodie, DVM · Accepted Answer

Shedding excessively can have many reasons: 1) change of seasons...your dog sheds his summer hair to get a winter coat (this will depend on your climate) 2) food quality is not adequate 3) ectoparasites such as mange mites, demodex mites, fleas, ticks, etc. itch and the dog scratches excessively and loses a lot of hair 4) some dogs naturally shed more than others. 5) hormonal changes, e.g. a female dog comes into heat. Females will shed their hair coat You can do the following: 1) feed a good quality complete commercial puppy food for large dogs 2) Check for ectoparasites and treat for them if present 3) Brush or comb your dog every day This should minimize the shedding.

Why is my dog shedding heavily? Is it normal or a health concern?

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