Heavy Shedding Dog Breeds: Part III

While all breeds of dogs shed fur to some extent, some breeds are particularly prone to heavy shedding. Dogs that have a heavy double coat of fur to protect them from the cold and harsh winter conditions become heavy shedders during summer as the temperatures go up and the heavy coat becomes a source of discomfort. Additionally, shedding is the method of shedding dead skin for a dog. The heavier the coat of fur is, heavier will be the shedding required for the dog to discard dead skin and turn out a new coat.

Some of the breeds that shed very heavily include:

German Shepherd
The German Shepherd, or the Alsatian, is among the most popular breeds of dogs. Its skull is wide and muzzle shaped like a wedge. Its ears are erect and set high. Its body is strong and long, while its tail is low and bushy. The Shepherds coat varies in texture from dog to dog:
• Straight, rough and short
• Straight, rough and long
• Long and wavy

However, they all have thick coats which are resistant to weather and have double coats. Their colors usually vary from black to grey with brown/yellow marks. They usually have a black upper layer. They need to be brushed every week. But when they are shedding, they should be brushed every day. The one’s with a longer coat need to be groomed more.

Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is probably the largest and strongest among all breeds of dogs. It is remarkably good looking and very lovable as a puppy. Possessing a double coat, the Pyr also has a lush, fine-haired under coat. Its outer coat is coarse, and it has thick hair which ranges from medium to long. The hair on its hind legs, tail and neck is longer. It sheds heavily and will require brushing every day or twice a day.

Keeshond
The Keeshond is the mildest and most unassuming of all Spitz breeds. Of medium size, it has a compact build and its body is powerful. It has an outer coat that is dense, quite long and fairly rough. It also tends to stick out from its body. Its soft under coat is also quite thick. It has a lush ruff-like collar around its neck, and its head has a shape similar to a fox. It’s under coat is usually cream, while its outer coat is grey or black.
The Keeshond normally does not require brushing more than once a week. However, it needs to be brushed daily during it’s twice a year shedding.

Newfoundland
The Newfoundland, also known as the Newf, is a giant breed of dog that has endeared itself to families with its soft and gentle nature. It weighs any where between 120 and 160 lbs. It has a double coat that is thick and lush. Its coarse outer coat is straight and flat, and its texture is a bit oily and resistant to water. It has a dense and soft under coat. Overall, its coat is a bit wavy.