Do Golden Retrievers, Shed? Unequivocally yes!
If You’re a proud owner of a Golden Retriever, you may have wondered: just how much does your pooch shed? The answer? A lot! But there are ways to manage and minimize the amount of shedding your retriever does. Keep reading to learn more!
In this post, we are not only going to answer your question, “Do Golden Retrievers Shed?” We are also going to give you practical tips on how to manage your Golden’s shedding patterns. We’ll show you how to minimize excessive shedding by proper grooming techniques you can do yourself. And you’ll pick up pointers on what to expect through different growth stages and seasonal changes.
Last but not least, are the basics of how to keep your Golden healthy from the inside out. The condition of your dog’s coat is a major indicator of its state of health. Shedding patterns and cycles are signs of the health of your Golden companion so it is important to take note of any unusual amounts of hair loss that could indicate your attention to your loved one.
Exacly How Much Do Golden Retrievers Shed?
Every dog sheds, and that’s the truth. There are simply some dogs that shed more than others, like Golden Retrievers. It’s important to understand that not all dogs shed in the same way. Some breeds will shed their entire coat at once, which can leave your home looking like a snowstorm blew through it.
A healthy Golden Retriever that is eating a healthy diet will generally shed between 1 and 2 pounds of fur per year so it is important to maintain good grooming habits by brushing their coats and cleaning up after them.
How Often Do Golden Retrievers Shed?
Now that you know that Goldens do shed, you might ask yourself, “How Often Do Golden Retrievers Shed?” The answer is, “it depends.”
There are many factors that can influence how often your Golden will shed and the amount of hair he will lose in the process. Diet, stress, environment, exposure to chemicals, tap water are just a few of the reasons that your Golden can shed in more than normal amounts.
Speaking of tap water, It is really important to have good clean water available for you Golden at all times. Do not let them drink tap water because of the fluoride, alum, and copper in the water just to name a few that can create a toxic build-up that starts a macromineral imbalance in their system.
With that said it is important to note that Golden retrievers always need a job to do, This helps keep their fantastic minds in order. A happy Golden is a dog working with you and your family. Also, it brings a level of predictability to your relationship with them. They can count on you being there. Also, they know where they belong.
For an adult dog, you should expect large amounts of shedding throughout the spring and summer months when temperatures rise. Adult dogs and puppies should receive regular grooming sessions. This will help with enhancing your relationship and bonding with your Golden. Grooming is a great way to spend some quality time with your companion while controlling shedding and maintaining a healthy coat.
Why is my Golden Retriever Shedding So Much?
Golden Retriever Shedding Season - What Does This Mean?
Another thing that most people don’t realize is how much Golden Retrievers shed throughout the year. There are variations between individual dogs. Golden Retrievers typically go through two major shedding seasons every year. The first is in the fall, and the second is in the spring.
These seasons are typically when your retriever will shed most heavily - so be prepared to do a little extra cleaning! But there’s no need to worry too much about it. If you’ve got a Golden Retriever Shedding Brush and some patience, you’ll be able to minimize the quantity and frequency of shedding.
Keeping A Clean House
People who don’t own dogs often wonder why owners try to keep their homes clean even though they have furry friends running around.
However, there are other reasons to try and keep your retriever from leaving fur everywhere! For one thing, Golden Retrievers often get very attached to their toys and blankets. This means that you may find them buried beneath a mountain of dog hair daily. And that every step you take will make a terrible mess underfoot!
This is why it’s so important to keep up with your Golden Retriever’s shedding! If you’ve been wondering, “How often should I brush my retriever?” The answer may be more often than you think. To make sure that he or she doesn’t leave a huge mess in your house, here’s what we recommend.
We recommend brushing him every day (we’ll emphasize this more below). That way, you can minimize his shedding and avoid all of these problems at once!
But even if you don’t have time for a full grooming session every day, make sure that you’re brushing your dog at least three times per week!
Tips to Keep Your Golden Locks ON Your Retriever:
1.) Keeping Your Dog Healthy
Exercise is a key factor if you want to minimize your retriever’s shedding! Make sure they get regular walks and playtime every day. All dogs including retrievers require adequate exercise to maintain proper weight. Exercise also has a positive effect on metabolism, cellular health, hormones, and a positive mood.
Golden Retrievers are generally pretty healthy dogs. Exercise and a balanced diet are keys to a healthy pup. But that’s not all. Emotional and mental health are critical. Do they get enough daily attention? Are they getting proper nutrition? Are their beds and laying quarters clean and large enough?
Golden Retrievers need between 30 and 60 minutes of aerobic exercise each day.
If your retriever is spending the day indoors, make sure he has plenty of space to run around and play! Just be careful not to leave him in an area where he could get into something dangerous. Because Golden Retrievers love to play and run and jump make sure that you retriever proof their play place that you choose to leave them for the time that you are gone. Set them up for success.
2.) Keep Their Coat in Good Shape
Much of your retriever’s fur will fall out in spring and fall. Then, maintaining his coat during these times can help limit shedding. By brushing him every day, you’ll remove loose fur before it starts falling off all over the place.
And if brushing doesn’t keep his fur in good shape, try bathing your retriever! Some dogs will shed less if you bathe them every week or two. Just be careful not to dry out their skin by over bathing.
This isn’t difficult since retrievers like to swim and play in the water. However, you mustn’t use the wrong kind of shampoo! Harsh chemicals will take all of the moisture out of your dog’s coat. This will make it much more likely for him to lose hair when he starts shedding again.
Instead, we recommend using natural shampoos made from aloe vera, tea tree oil, and other gentle ingredients. These can be just as economical as regular commercial shampoo. More importantly, they contribute to a healthy quality of life and a beautiful coat.
3.) Maintain Cleanliness
Since Golden Retrievers will shed a lot of hair, they must stay clean. Brushing your retriever at least once a day can really help (see below). If you can manage to bathe him on a regular schedule too, he’ll drop even less fur. Just be careful to use something safe and gentle! He should feel completely comfortable and happy, regardless of all other factors.
**A note on bathing: You don’t want to bathe too frequently. It can dry the coat and skin out. Every retriever will have its own schedule for bathing time. It could be once a week or once a month or more. It will vary but only bathe when needed.
If your retriever is spending time outdoors, you might want to consider getting him a pool! NOT A CHLORINATED POOL THOUGH. Chlorine absorbs right into the bloodstream. This is a health hazard for your dog. Just a plain water pool is perfect. This will help keep him cool during the hot summer months. Plus, he’ll have fun too!
4. Professional Grooming Equipment For Goldens
Using the right equipment can help you keep your retriever from shedding too much! Brushes can be a big help when it comes to keeping your dog’s fur in good shape. We recommend using a slicker brush with soft bristles and a rubber handle.
These brushes are great for removing small knots or tangles. Which prevents them from breaking your dog’s fur or even causing him pain.
Brushing helps remove excess fur from their body. Bathing will also help significantly! When they’re wet, brush them gently with a slicker brush in the direction of hair growth.
This will get out stubborn clumps that may have been missed otherwise! If you don’t have time for a full bath, just use a damp towel or washcloth instead. This will still clean away any loose fur.
Of course, there are plenty of other options such as grooming gloves, for a quick effective go-over when you are short on time. Using one can make brushing easier because all of his loose furs will be safely removed beforehand! Plus, it will be much easier to dry if any water gets in his coat.
One Cause Of Excessive Shedding: Improper Diet
Excessive shedding in retrievers can be related to diet. Just as people need to eat food that is nutrient-dense so do our beloved furred friends. Dogs are omnivores and designed to eat a mix of protein and veggies and certain fruits. They also significantly benefit from a variety of ‘greens’ whether cooked, raw or contained in Superfoods like this greens Super superfood.
Look for quality dog food or make your own dog’s food by cooking and adding supplements or providing your dog with the absolute best; a species-specific diet. Dogs in nature or in the wild eat other animals and that makes them raw food connoisseurs! Discover and find out what is best for your Golden and why.
Also, give your pup an Omega oil. This cannot be understated, as it will amazingly improve the quality and health of the coat. But not only do Omega’s or fish oils produce healthy coats but they produce calm minds and an improved mood. Omega oils support joint health and are particularly important for this breed.
Become your best friend’s advocate and create the highest quality of life possible. Return the unconditional love only given by a dog and in particular, here we are talking about Goldens. Retrievers have an incredible capacity to love like no other and are loyal to a fault. Love them back!!
Do Golden Retreivers Shed As Puppies? Baby Stages . . .
Although it may be beneficial to try and limit shedding as much as possible. It’s important to remember that all puppies are going to shed - this is completely normal. Like any other breed, Golden Retrievers have their timetable for growing up.
Expect your puppy to go through a few stages where his coat changes. This includes the ”puppy” or “baby” stage, which will last anywhere from 6-18 months! During this time, there may be some patches of fur missing on your retriever’s body. Remember that this isn’t due to grooming or skin conditions either - it’s natural during puppyhood!
‘Coat Blowing’ With Puppies And Climate Changes
Puppies also go through another stage called ”blowing their coat.” This typically occurs around six months of age, and it’s when your retriever sheds the most. He will shed a percentage of his entire body weight during this time! But don’t worry - this too shall pass. It may take up to a year for your retriever to reach full maturity.
As he gets older, though, you can expect these patches to grow back. But there’s a good chance he’ll still experience shedding now and then. For most Golden Retrievers, this usually occurs during certain times of the year.
Concluding Thoughts
In answer to your question, “Do Golden Retrievers Shed?” we’ve given you lots of advice for caring for your Golden. Complete with references to links for everything from the best nutritional diet to supplements to professional grooming equipment for Goldens.
Always remember, Golden Retriever pups go through a natural process of losing old or damaged hairs from their coat. This is done to make way for new, healthy hairs. These are natural cycles and processes.
Important Note: There are many reasons why dogs might start getting bald patches. It could be due to thyroid problems, skin parasites, or even hormonal imbalances. It may be time to reach out to experts such as professionals from American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association.
One last thing - there’s no way you can stop Golden Retrievers from shedding! But with some time and patience, you CAN reduce the amount of fur that your dog sheds. With proper care and attention, you and your Golden buddy will make it through!
Recap + Links
- Daily Brushing ~ Brush, Slicker Brush, Grooming Gloves
- Bathing When Needed ~ Using Natural Shampoos
- Daily Exercise for 30-60 minutes
- Species-Specific Diet
- Fish Oil + Omegas
- Greens Superfoods
- Expert Holistic Help ~ American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association
