Dobermans are a beloved breed of dog known for their loyalty, intelligence, and unique appearance.
But one question many potential Doberman owners have is, “Do Dobermans shed?
” The short answer is yes, Dobermans do shed.
However, the amount of shedding can vary depending on the dog’s grooming routine.
First, it’s essential to understand that all dogs shed to some degree.
It’s a natural process that helps to remove old or damaged hair and make room for new growth.
Dobermans have a short, sleek coat that is easy to maintain, but they still shed hair just like any other dog.
What Causes Dobermans To Shed?
Several causes can contribute to Dobermans shedding:
Genetics
When it comes to shedding in Dobermans, genetics play a big role.
Dobermans have short, sleek coats prone to shedding, and the amount of shedding can vary depending on the dog.
This is because shedding is a trait that is determined by the dog’s genes.
Genes are the instructions that determine how a living organism looks, behaves, and functions.
They are passed down from parents to their offspring through inheritance.
In the case of Dobermans, the genes that determine shedding are inherited from both the mother and the father.
It’s important to note that a dog’s genes are not the only factor determining to shed.
Environmental factors such as diet, grooming, and overall health also play a role.
However, genetics play a significant role in determining the amount of shedding a Doberman will experience.
Hormonal changes
Hormonal changes can also play a role in a Doberman’s shedding patterns.
Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate many of the body’s functions, including hair growth.
One example of a hormonal change that can cause increased shedding in Dobermans is pregnancy.
During pregnancy, a dog’s hormone levels change significantly, which can cause her to shed more than usual.
After giving birth, hormonal fluctuations can cause the mother to shed the hair that was retained during pregnancy.
Another example of a hormonal change that can cause increased shedding is lactation.
The hormonal changes during lactation can cause the mother dog to shed hair to make room for milk production.
It’s worth mentioning that hormonal changes are not only limited to female Dobermans; hormonal imbalances in male Dobermans can also cause shedding, such as low testosterone levels and hypothyroidism.
It’s important to note that while hormonal changes can cause increased shedding, they are usually temporary and will resolve once the hormones return to normal levels.
However, suppose you notice that your Doberman is shedding more than usual, and it doesn’t seem to be related to seasonal shedding or lack of grooming.
In that case, it’s a good idea to consult a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.
Seasonal shedding
Dobermans, like many other breeds of dogs, experience seasonal shedding.
This natural process occurs when the dog’s body sheds its old or damaged hair to make room for new growth.
This process typically happens twice a year, in the spring and fall, as the dog’s body adjusts to the changing temperatures and sunlight.
During the spring, as the days get longer and the temperatures start to rise, Dobermans will shed their thick winter coat to prepare for the warmer weather.
This shedding process can be pretty heavy, and you may notice that your dog is losing a lot of hair.
This is entirely normal and nothing to be worried about.
In the fall, as the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, Dobermans will grow their thick winter coat again.
This shedding process is usually lighter than spring shedding, but you may still notice loose hair around the house.
Health Issues
Health issues can also cause increased shedding in Dobermans.
While shedding is a natural process for all dogs, certain health conditions can cause a dog to shed more than usual.
One example of a health issue that can cause shedding is skin allergies.
Allergies can cause inflammation and itching, which can lead to excessive shedding.
Common allergens include flea bites, food, and environmental irritants such as pollen or dust.
Another example is parasitic infestations, such as mange mites or fleas.
These parasites can cause itching and irritation of the skin, which can lead to excessive shedding.
Nutritional deficiencies can also cause a Doberman to shed more than usual.
A diet deficient in essential fatty acids can cause a dog’s coat to become dry and brittle, leading to increased shedding.
Infections, such as bacterial or fungal, can also affect the skin and coat and cause shedding.
Stress
Stress can also cause increased shedding in Dobermans.
Stress is a common issue that can affect dogs just like it affects humans, and it can manifest in different ways, including shedding.
Stress can be caused by various factors, such as changes in the dog’s environment, the owner’s routine, or even the weather.
Things like separation anxiety, loud noises, or unfamiliar people or animals can also cause it.
When a dog is stressed, it can cause a release of certain hormones in its body, which can then lead to changes in its coat and skin.
One of the changes that can occur is shedding.
A dog may shed more than usual or even start losing patches of hair.
It’s important to note that stress-induced shedding is usually temporary and will resolve once the stressor is removed or the dog becomes accustomed to the change.
However, suppose you notice that your Doberman is shedding more than usual, and it doesn’t seem to be related to seasonal shedding or lack of grooming.
In that case, it’s a good idea to consult a veterinarian or a professional dog behaviorist to rule out any underlying health issues or behavior problems.
Lack of grooming
Grooming is essential to maintaining a healthy coat for your Doberman, and grooming them regularly can lead to a buildup of loose hair and mats in their coat.
When a Doberman’s coat is not groomed regularly, the hair can become matted and tangled, which can cause irritation and itching of the skin.
This can lead to excessive shedding as the dog tries to remove the uncomfortable mats and tangles.
Regular grooming, such as brushing your Doberman with a slicker brush or a shedding blade, can help to remove loose hair, prevent mats, and keep the coat healthy.
Brushing helps to distribute natural oils throughout the coat, which can help to keep the coat shiny and healthy.
It’s also important to keep your Doberman clean by giving them regular baths.
A dirty coat can also cause irritation and itching, leading to increased shedding.
Diet
Diet also plays a vital role in a Doberman’s shedding patterns.
A diet deficient in essential fatty acids can cause a dog’s coat to become dry and brittle, leading to increased shedding.
Essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, are important nutrients that are necessary for maintaining a healthy coat and skin.
These nutrients help promote healthy skin and coat, reducing shedding.
Foods that are high in essential fatty acids include fish, such as salmon and mackerel, flaxseed, and chia seeds.
These can be added to the dog’s diet or found in specially formulated dog food containing these nutrients.
It’s important to note that not all dog foods are created equal, and some may not provide all the necessary nutrients for a healthy coat.
It’s a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or a professional pet nutritionist to ensure that your Doberman gets the proper diet for its needs.
Another critical aspect of a Doberman’s diet is to make sure they are getting enough protein.
A diet low in protein can also cause a dog to shed more than usual.
It’s also important to avoid feeding your Doberman table scraps or human food as it can upset their diet and cause nutritional deficiencies.
In general, keeping your Doberman on a healthy diet that includes essential fatty acids and enough protein can help to promote a healthy coat and reduce shedding.
With the proper diet, you can help keep your Doberman’s coat shiny and healthy and enjoy all the beautiful qualities this unique breed offers.
How to Control the Doberman Shedding?
Controlling shedding in Dobermans can be done through regular grooming, a healthy diet, and proper veterinary care.
Here are some tips to help keep shedding under control:
Regular grooming
Brushing your Doberman regularly with a slicker brush or a shedding blade can help to remove loose hair and keep shedding under control.
This will help to prevent mats and tangles from forming in their coat, which can lead to irritation and itching of the skin.
Healthy diet
Providing your Doberman with a healthy diet that includes essential fatty acids and enough protein can help to promote a healthy coat and reduce shedding.
Foods high in essential fatty acids include fish, such as salmon and mackerel, flaxseed, and chia seeds.
Keep them clean
Giving your Doberman regular baths can help to keep its coat clean and reduce shedding.
Proper veterinary care
Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help to ensure that your Doberman is healthy and that there are no underlying health issues that could be causing excessive shedding.
Avoid stressors
Try to identify and avoid any stressors in your Doberman’s environment that may cause them to shed more than usual.
Keep an Eye on the shedding pattern
Pay attention to the shedding pattern of your Doberman.
Suppose you notice that they are shedding more than usual.
In that case, it’s a good idea to consult a veterinarian or a professional groomer to rule out any underlying health issues or grooming problems.
In general, Dobermans are a great breed and make excellent companions.
With proper grooming, a healthy diet, and proper veterinary care, you can keep shedding under control and enjoy all the beautiful qualities this amazing breed offers.
Remember, shedding is a natural process, and a little hair here and there is a small price to pay for the love and companionship of a Doberman.
