Are you tired of constantly cleaning up after your dog's shedding? Excessive shedding can be a hassle, but there are ways to combat it. One effective solution is to provide your dog with the right diet. In this article, we will explore the top dog food options that can help minimize shedding and keep your furry friend's coat healthy and shiny.
The Relationship Between Diet and Shedding
While shedding is a natural process for dogs, certain breeds are more prone to excessive shedding. However, it's important to note that shedding can also be a sign of nutritional deficiencies or food allergies. Providing your dog with a proper diet can help address these issues and reduce unnecessary shedding.
Top Picks for Best Dog Food for Shedding
To make your search easier, we have compiled a list of the best dog foods that can help control shedding. These options provide essential nutrients for healthy skin and coat while also targeting specific life stages. Let's take a closer look at our recommendations:
Best Puppy Food for Shedding
AvoDerm Natural Dry Dog Food (Beef & Vegetables)
- Rating: 4.4
- Top Ingredients: Beef, Beef Meal, Peas
- Type: Dry
This puppy food is designed to support the transition from a puppy coat to an adult one, which naturally involves shedding. It contains avocados, known for their excellent conditioning properties, as well as omega oils, fiber, and essential vitamins.
Pros:
- Made with high-quality, premium beef
- Free from added meat by-products, artificial flavors, and colorings
Cons:
- Some puppies experienced loose stools on this diet
Best Adult Dog Food for Shedding
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Adult Dry Dog Food Salmon & Rice Formula
- Rating: 4.6
- Top Ingredients: Salmon, Barley, Rice
- Type: Dry
This specially formulated dry dog food is ideal for dogs with skin and stomach sensitivities. It is rich in healthy fats, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, which promote a healthy coat. Made from real salmon, rice, and other nutritious ingredients, it also aids digestion.
Pros:
- Fortified with vitamins and minerals for overall health
- Free from wheat, corn, soy, and artificial colors and flavors
Cons:
- Some dogs may refuse to eat this food
Whole Earth Farms Grain-Free Recipe (Pork, Beef & Lamb)
- Rating: 4
- Top Ingredients: Pork Meal, Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes
- Type: Dry
This natural, grain-free dog food is packed with protein and healthy fats to support a shiny coat. Fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants provide additional nutritional benefits.
Pros:
- Contains ingredients like apples, sweet potatoes, and flaxseed for coat health
- Free from wheat, corn, soy, by-products, and artificial preservatives
Cons:
- Some dog owners found the kibble size to be smaller than expected
Wellness Pet Food Simple Natural Limited Ingredient (Lamb & Oatmeal)
- Rating: 4.4
- Top Ingredients: Lamb, Lamb Meal, Oatmeal
- Type: Dry
This high-quality dog food is designed for pets with food sensitivities. It focuses on easily digestible, natural ingredients like lamb, oatmeal, and flaxseed, promoting a healthy coat and reducing shedding.
Pros:
- Contains a high ratio of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids for skin and coat health
- Fortified with probiotics for good digestive health
Cons:
- Some buyers complained about the smell of this food and the kibble size
Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Recipe (Turkey)
- Rating: 4.4
- Top Ingredients: Turkey Meal, Peas, Turkey
- Type: Dry
This limited ingredient dry dog food is highly digestible and suitable for dogs with food sensitivities. It contains only one main animal protein source and one main vegetable, making it an excellent choice for dogs with coat issues caused by allergies.
Pros:
- Free from common allergens like corn, wheat, soy, and artificial preservatives
- Made in the USA using high-quality raw nutrition
Cons:
- May cause diarrhea or upset stomach in some dogs
Nutro Natural Choice Small Bites (Lamb & Brown Rice)
- Rating: 4.4
- Top Ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Chicken Meal, Brewers Rice
- Type: Dry
This dog food is specifically formulated for small dogs, providing them with extra conditioning for their skin and coat. It contains high-quality ingredients like pasture-raised lamb, chicken, rice, oatmeal, peas, and chickpeas.
Pros:
- Packed with essential antioxidants for a healthy immune system
- Perfect kibble size for small dogs
Cons:
- Some pet owners found it expensive and their dogs didn't like the taste
Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free (Duck and Chickpeas)
- Rating: 4.4
- Top Ingredients: Deboned Duck, Duck Meal, Chickpeas
- Type: Dry
This limited ingredient dry dog food is made from duck and sweet potatoes, perfect for dogs with food allergies. It provides ample protein and Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce shedding.
Pros:
- Contains added probiotics for easy digestibility
- Fortified with vitamins, minerals, glucosamine, and chondroitin for overall health
Cons:
- Some pet owners found it to be pricy
Royal Canin Dog Food for Shedding
- Rating: 4.2
- Top Ingredients: Brewers Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Wheat
- Type: Dry
This scientifically formulated dog food targets dogs with sensitive skin and dry coats. It provides a specific balance of complex amino acids and nutrients to nourish the skin barrier, promote a healthy coat, and reduce shedding.
Pros:
- Contains omega-three fatty acids, EPA, and DHA for skin, coat, and eye health
- Features delicious aromas and tastes that large breed adult dogs love
Cons:
- The protein source is not among the first three ingredients
Hill's Science Dog Food to Reduce Shedding
- Rating: 4.4
- Top Ingredients: Chicken, Brewers Rice, Chicken Meal
- Type: Dry
This dry dog food is specifically created for dogs with shedding problems, sensitive stomachs, and skin issues. It contains added vitamin E, Omega-6 fatty acids, and prebiotic fiber for improved skin health and nutrient absorption.
Pros:
- Made in the USA and recommended by veterinarians
- Supports good digestive health with highly digestible ingredients and prebiotic fiber
Cons:
- Requires a gradual transition period for optimal results
Diamond Naturals Dry Dog Food (Salmon and Potato)
- Rating: 4.6
- Top Ingredients: Salmon, Fish Meal, Potatoes
- Type: Dry
This kibble from Diamond Naturals is packed with natural omegas from real wild-caught salmon and fish meal, perfect for dogs with dry skin. It is grain-free and contains essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Pros:
- Includes added probiotics for immune health and easy digestion
- Offers great value with a large bag size
Cons:
- Contains tomato pomace, which some consider a low-quality ingredient
Orijen 6 Fish Grain-Free Formula
- Rating: 4.6
- Top Ingredients: Whole Atlantic Mackerel, Whole Atlantic Herring, Monkfish
- Type: Dry
This dry dog food is rich in proteins, with 85% of the protein content sourced from six different fish varieties. It contains low glycemic carbs like lentils, peas, and chickpeas and is also low in carbohydrates.
Pros:
- Contains ample Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids and glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
- Each piece is coated with freeze-dried liver for added flavor
Cons:
- Considered a pricier option compared to other brands
What Causes Excessive Shedding in Dogs?
Excessive shedding in dogs can be a cause for concern. While shedding is a natural process, it can indicate underlying issues. Poor nutrition is a common cause of excessive shedding, as it fails to provide the necessary nutrients for a healthy coat. Allergies, stress, and certain medical conditions can also contribute to shedding.
Symptoms: How Much Shedding is Normal?
Shedding is a natural process, and some breeds shed more than others. It can be challenging to determine the line between normal shedding and excessive shedding. Shedding that is causing discomfort or leading to bald spots should be addressed. Regular grooming and understanding your dog's breed shedding patterns can help you identify what is normal for your dog.
Buyer's Guide: Choosing the Right Dog Food for Shedding
When choosing a dog food to minimize shedding, consider the following factors:
Dog Nutrition 101: What Does Your Dog Need?
A well-balanced diet is essential for reducing shedding. Look for dog foods that provide high-quality protein, essential fatty acids (such as Omega-3 and Omega-6), vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Avoid foods with unnecessary fillers and artificial additives that can trigger allergies and digestive issues.
What to Look for in Dog Food for Shedding and Dry Skin Problems?
Choose dog foods specifically formulated for shedding and dry skin problems. These foods typically contain ingredients that promote a healthy coat, such as salmon, fish oil, and flaxseed. Additionally, they should be free from common allergens and artificial additives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Still have questions about shedding in dogs? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:
How Can You Help Reduce Shedding in Dogs?
Besides providing a proper diet, regular grooming and occasional baths can help reduce shedding. Brushing your dog's fur daily will help remove loose hair, preventing it from ending up on your floors and furniture. Bathing your dog with a gentle shampoo can also promote a healthy coat. However, be careful not to over-bathe, as it can strip away the natural oils that keep the skin and coat moisturized.
How Do You Transition Your Dog to a New Food?
When transitioning your dog to a new food, it's important to do it gradually. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with the old food and gradually increase the ratio over several days. This gradual transition allows your dog's digestive system to adjust to the new food without causing any upset.
Should You Give Your Dog Supplements for Shedding?
Some supplements can help reduce shedding in dogs. These supplements often contain flaxseed, fatty acids, and probiotics. However, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any supplements into your dog's diet.
When Will Puppies Shed Their "Baby" and "Adult" Coats?
The timing of shedding in puppies varies, but it typically occurs between three and six months of age. During this time, their soft puppy coat is replaced by the adult coat. It's important not to worry if you notice changes in your puppy's coat during this transition period; it's a natural part of their growth.
Should You Take Your Dog to the Vet If They're Shedding More Than Usual?
If changing your dog's diet and grooming routine doesn't reduce excessive shedding, it's a good idea to consult your veterinarian. Excessive shedding can be a symptom of an underlying health issue, such as allergies, infections, or hormonal imbalances. A vet can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.
Wrapping Up the Best Dog Food to Help with Shedding
Excessive shedding can be a frustrating problem, but the right dog food can make a significant difference. The dog foods listed above are excellent choices for reducing shedding and promoting a healthy coat. Among them, Diamond Naturals Skin & Coat Formula All Life Stages Dry Dog Food stands out as a top pick due to its focus on Omega fatty acids and overall nutritional value. Remember, finding the best dog food for your pet may require some trial and error, so don't be discouraged if it takes time to find the perfect fit. Your dog's health and happiness are worth the effort!
