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Do Labs Shed? (Yes! Here’s Exactly How Much)

Do Labs Shed? (Yes! Here’s Exactly How Much)

Labradors are a breed that’s loved by many families across the USA, as they’re loyal and fun to play tug-of-war with.

But one factor that many people frequently overlook is the shedding frequency. However, do Labs even shed?

Since Labs have double coats, they shed quite a bit. You need to ensure you groom your Lab every other day to control the shedding and keep it from spreading all over your home.

The coat color has nothing to do with the shedding frequency. However, the fur is less noticeable with similar furniture colors.

Labrador Retrievers are an excellent choice for a pet. There’s a reason they’re the most preferred dog breed in the United States.

Blended Labs, like most Labs, can inherit their Labrador parent’s coat traits. We discuss all elements of Labrador shedding in the post beneath so you can stay on top of it. Let’s get started!

The Lab’s Coat

The fur of the Labrador Retriever is a double coat. There is an outer layer of hair and an interior, which means there are two layers of fur.

The top layer is intended to safeguard the Labrador, while the undercoat is created to keep him warmer. It forms a strong protective shield around your Labrador when the two are combined.

It also implies that, where you’re from, your Lab will most certainly have two significant shedding episodes in which their outer layer may “blow.”

Does The Lab’s Color Make A Difference In The Shedding?

There are three primary color variations for Labrador Retrievers.

Yellow, Chocolate, and Black are the tones. Red Labradors and Silver Labradors are also available, but they have not been approved show colors.

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One of the most popular questions we get is whether the Lab’s combination of colors affects their shedding rate. No, that is not the case.

The Labrador is a type of dog which has the same genetic profile as all other dogs. And although their characteristics differ, English and American Labradors are the same breeds.

Blend Your Dog’s Fur With Your Furnishings

Black Labs, Chocolate Labs, and Yellow Labs all shed at the same pace. The only variation will be the amount of fur that’s visible around your home.

Dark hair is usually harder to ignore when it’s on the ground if you have lighter-colored floors. If you have dark flooring in your house, shed hair from a Chocolate or Black Lab will be less noticeable.

The Yellow Lab is a better choice if your floor is lighter in tone.

The same may be said regarding furnishing selections. Chocolate and Black Labs will drop pieces of lighter-colored furniture each time they jump up on your sofa.

If you have darker couches (which most families do), be prepared to see Yellow Lab hairs all over the place if their shedding isn’t managed correctly.

Labrador Shedding Frequency

Labrador retrievers shed throughout the year. However, you’ll find that your dog sheds significantly more than usual when they “blow” their coat twice a year.

This is common in Labrador retrievers, as well as all other double-coated dogs.

Shedding is affected by seasonal variations, and the most usual periods to notice abundant dog hair are in the springtime and winter. Labradors, on the other hand, shed a lot.

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In the offseason, don’t expect to be able to relax and stop combing your dog. Frequent grooming is essential if you want to control your dog’s hair properly.

When Labs Shed The Most

During the spring and winter, Labrador Retrievers lose the most fur. Labs shed to produce a new covering of fur that protects them from the outdoors in the winter.

In the summer, they shed to cool off and avoid carrying such a thick second coat.

This is called a molting season or “blowing” their coats. It’s regularly mentioned as a source of irritation among Labrador owners.

While Labradors shed all year, this is the period of the year when you’ll need to be especially careful with grooming.

Because their undercoat is denser, Labradors shed more than other double-coated breeds. They do, however, shed less than Malamutes, Newfound lands, and other poofy dogs.

Shedding Triggers

Laboratories are shedding behemoths that shed all year long. However, there are other explanations why your Lab can lose its fur, so keep that in mind.

Fleas, ticks, mange, or parasites are some of the reasons your Labrador may start shedding. Skin disorders can also cause excessive shedding.

Another essential element to consider when your Labrador is shedding is stress. This is true of any dog. Whenever a Labrador is in a stressful situation, the fur will begin to fall out.

Allergies can also be a factor, mainly if your Lab is allergic to everyday household items such as hay, grass, or weeds.

Managing Your Lab’s Shedding

You have several options for controlling your Labrador’s shedding. Brushing, bathing, and applying a de-shedder a few times a year are some of the most common solutions.

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Diet can also have an impact. Allergens in food can cause skin issues, so this is something to watch out for.

If your dog is allergic to wheat or gluten, it may develop a skin issue. In our firsthand opinion, the skin issue is likely to add to some form of abnormal shedding once that happens.

If you observe a change in your pet’s typical shedding, you should consult your veterinarian before beginning any self-diagnosed treatment.

Brushing

Labrador Retrievers should be brushed once a week. At least two times a week is ideal. Getting your Lab used to groom sessions will significantly reduce the amount of dog hair in your home.

However, we understand that families can be very busy so we advise brushing your dog at least once every three days outdoors.

Investing in a good dog brush is essential, and there are particular versions designed to help your pooch shed less.

Shampoos

Labradors’ coats can be hypersensitive. For your Lab, we suggest using oatmeal shampoo. Once per month is generally plenty, as long as you don’t deplete your Lab of the oils found in their coats.

If you discover that a regular oatmeal shampoo isn’t cutting it when it comes to reducing shedding, try an Anti-shed solution.

Some shampoos assist calm skin issues associated with increased shedding if your Lab has delicate skin.

Diet

Any Labrador Retriever should have a well-balanced diet. You’ll want to make sure they’re getting a Labrador-specific Kibble that’s high in Omega Fatty Acids.

Omega fatty acids will benefit both the epidermis and the coat. It will maintain their coats lustrous and silky and possibly treat any skin concerns your dog may have.

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It’s also a good idea to add some natural components to your dog’s food now and then. Zucchini and roasted sweet potatoes are good sources of vitamins and minerals that can help your dog’s coat stay healthy.

Supplements

Supplements can also aid in the reduction of shedding in Labradors. If your dog is currently eating a dog food that isn’t high in Omegas, it’s a good idea to boost their diet with a fish oil supplement.

Fish oil supplements are frequently available in both liquid and tablet form.

There are also a variety of chewable supplements that can aid in the maintenance of your Lab’s coat. Chewable supplements are a favorite of ours because they can help with coat health as well as training.

Omega Fatty acids are found in most coat and skin health solutions, which will keep your Lab’s coat healthy and decrease shedding.

De-shedding Products

To assist you in managing shedding, de-shedding equipment is recommended. This is particularly critical during the two times per year when your Labrador’s coat “blows.”

Brushing with a de-shedding brush differs from regular brushing. These tools are about the same price as a brush, making them a cost-effective way to keep pesky dog hair off your furniture and floors.

De-shedding brush to comb the top layer of your Lab’s coat to remove extra fur, as well as the second layer for any softer hair waiting to fall.

We don’t advocate using de-shedding brushes more than a few times each year because they can be harsh.

Can I stop My Lab From Shedding?

The shedding can be highly irritating to both look at and deal with, especially if you have sensitivities to pet dander.

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So, it’s only natural that you’re trying every possible way. However, do not fall for gimmicks as there is nothing out on the market that can help your Lab stop shedding.

Even if such a magic pill existed, it’s not safe. Your Lab’s body naturally regulates itself through the seasons, as we’ve mentioned, which helps keep them cool or warm, depending on the season.

Therefore, trying to stop the shedding process can cause your Lab to overheat, and they won’t be able to grow their healthy coats for the winter.

Just take the time each day to brush your Lab to keep the shed fur that’s around your house to a minimum. Also, keeping their skin and body healthy will reduce the likelihood of any excessive shedding.

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