Hi Byron,

Thanks for your question.

There are dogs that naturally shed more than others but there can be medical reasons for it as well. The fact that you saw a difference in the severity of shedding after a diet change could possibly mean that the new diet has a deficiency. I would first recommend a vitamin supplement that also has omega-3 fatty acids in it. Omega-3 fatty acids can improve skin health and hair quality. You’ll be able to find a product like this at your pet supply store or veterinarian. Just like daily vitamins, almost any product will be of sufficient quality for your needs.

I would also recommend that you speak to your veterinarian about this and have a physical exam performed. Other skin conditions and metabolic problems can increase shedding and hair loss such as allergies, hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, skin infections and others. Your veterinarian will be able to give you good guidance on this and I would suspect they would perform routine blood work and inspect the skin closely.

I hope this helps,

Dr. Clayton Greenway