If you own a dog, chances are, you deal with the nuisance of shedding fur. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to help keep your dog's shedding to a manageable level.
If you own a dog, chances are, you deal with the nuisance of shedding fur. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to help keep your dog's shedding to a manageable level.
The main factor related to how much your dog sheds is which breed you own. Certain breeds, such as Yorkshire Terriers and Poodles, hardly shed at all, and are especially well suited for people who suffer from dander-related allergies. But if one of these hypoallergenic breeds is not your dog of choice, then chances are you deal with some amount of shedding. Here are some practical tips to deal with all of that hair.
Many dogs are seasonal shedders. As the temperatures begin to drop, so does the fur. Dogs shed their summer coats in the fall as their winter coats come in. The best way to deal with this is to be prepared. Brush your dog more often and vacuum more frequently. This will keep that extra hair from becoming too unmanageable.
Dogs also will go through their own version of spring cleaning. When the temperatures begin to rise in the spring, dogs will begin shedding that extra winter hair. Again, preparation is the key. Regular brushing and vacuuming will help you get through these “hairy” times.
Between the millions of strands of hair constantly growing, some breeds of dogs grow up to a total of 100 feet of fur per day! But, while your dog might not boast those kinds of hair-growth numbers, constantly replacing fur still places a demand on a dog’s system. Thirty percent of a dog's protein needs go toward hair growth. If a dog is not receiving proper nutrition, the dog's body will put the protein he's receiving toward maintaining muscle mass, leaving the coat to suffer.
A healthy, shiny coat is not only a sign of proper nutrition, but it also sheds less than an unhealthy coat. Premium dog food like IAMS™ ProActive Health™ provides dogs with the nutrients they need to keep their coat healthy, which means less shedding.
Brushing doesn't have to be a necessary evil. Train your dog to enjoy brushing, offering frequent praise during the process, and maybe even a treat at the end. This is easiest done from the time your dog is a puppy, but older dogs can be taught to enjoy brushing as well. The importance of brushing cannot be overemphasized. Just look at all the hair that ends up in the brush, and realize if it weren’t in the brush, it would be on your couch, floor, and perhaps, bed.
Be sure you're using the right kind of brush for your dog's coat. Breeds with thick undercoats need a specific type of brush, while longhaired breeds need a comb.
Last but not least, make sure to give your dog an occasional bath. Aside from the obvious benefit of having a clean, good-smelling pooch, your dog's coat will also benefit. Be warned though: Bathing your dog too frequently washes away the natural oil on his skin and coat, resulting in dry skin and, you guessed it, more shedding.
Committing the time to maintaining your dog's coat will help keep his shedding under control. Frequent brushing and vacuuming, and feeding your dog a balanced diet such as IAMS ProActive Health Adult MiniChunks will have you worrying less about an overabundance of hair and more time enjoying your furry friend.
As a new puppy parent, you may feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information available on properly feeding your furry friend. But don't worry – we are here to help! In this blog post, we will share tips and tricks on puppy feeding, so your canine companion gets all the nourishment it needs to grow and thrive.
First and foremost, it's important to follow a consistent feeding schedule for puppies. This will help them get used to regular meals and prevent them from developing bad habits like begging for food. It's also essential to choose a high-quality puppy food formulated specifically for their age and size. Look for options containing real, wholesome ingredients and avoid anything packed with fillers or additives.
Overfeeding your puppy can lead to obesity and other health issues. It's also important to pay attention to portion sizes. And if you need help with how much to feed your pup, feel free to ask your veterinarian for guidance.
Puppies have specific nutritional needs that change as they grow and develop. It is crucial to ensure they get the right amount of food at the right time. Our puppy feeding chart is designed to help you determine the appropriate serving size for your puppy based on age and weight. Following these guidelines ensures that your puppy gets the nutrition it needs to thrive and stay healthy.
[Puppy Feeding Chart]
Puppies are energetic and adorable little creatures, but they also require proper nutrition to grow and develop properly. So, how much should you feed a puppy?
Firstly, it's important to consider the size and breed of your puppy. Larger breeds will need more food, while smaller breeds will need less. It's also important to consider the puppy's age. Puppies under 12 weeks of age should be fed four times a day, while puppies over 12 weeks of age should be fed three times a day.
Regarding the amount of food, it's best to follow the guidelines on your puppy's food label. These guidelines are based on the puppy's weight and age and will ensure that your puppy is getting the right amount of nutrients. It's also essential to choose a high-quality puppy food developed specifically for puppies, as this will provide all the nutrients you puppy needs.
It's also important to remember that puppies have small stomachs and may need to eat smaller meals more frequently. If your puppy seems hungry between meals, you can offer them a small, healthy snack, such as a piece of cooked chicken or a small amount of carrot.
In summary, feeding your puppy the right amount of food at the correct time is important. Follow the guidelines on your puppy's food label and choose high-quality puppy food to ensure that your furry friend gets the nutrients required to grow into a healthy dog. Remember to consider your puppy's size and age, and offer small, healthy snacks as needed. Your puppy will grow into a healthy and happy dog with proper feeding.
The general rule of thumb is to switch your puppy to adult food when they reach around 80% of its expected adult size. This usually occurs when it is 12 to 18 months old, depending on the breed. Smaller breeds tend to reach adult size faster, while larger breeds may take longer.
To determine when your puppy is ready for the switch, it's important to pay attention to their body condition and weight. If your puppy is still growing rapidly and has a lot of energy, they are probably still being prepared for adult food. On the other hand, if they are starting to slowdown in growth and seem to be reaching their adult size, it's time to make the switch.
It's also a good idea to consult with your veterinarian for advice on when to switch your puppy to adult food. They can help you determine the best time based on your puppy's specific needs and growth rate.
In general, choosing high-quality adult food that is appropriate for your puppy's size and breed is imperative. Look for a formula rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals to support their overall health and development. With careful planning and attention, you can ensure that your puppy grows into a healthy, happy adult dog.

