As winter fades and spring approaches, many of us start thinking about decluttering and freshening up our spaces. But for dog owners, spring also brings another seasonal shift: shedding season.

As the days grow longer, many dogs begin shedding their thick winter coats, leaving behind fur on floors, furniture, and clothing. Instead of constantly battling the fluff, let’s take a proactive approach to spring cleaning—keeping both your home and your pup fresh, happy, and healthy.

Understanding Shedding & How to Manage It

Shedding is a natural part of a dog’s coat cycle, but some breeds shed more than others depending on their coat type and overall health. While you can’t stop shedding entirely, you can manage it effectively with the right tools and habits.

Top Tips for Controlling Shedding:

• Brush Regularly – Frequent brushing reduces loose hair before it ends up all over your home. Use a de-shedding tool for thick-coated dogs or a soft-bristle brush for short-haired breeds. Just a few minutes a day can make a huge difference!

• Bathe Smartly – A gentle, moisturizing dog shampoo helps remove excess hair and keeps skin healthy. Follow up with a leave-in conditioner to prevent dryness and dander buildup.

• Prioritize Nutrition – Healthy coats start from within! A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such as fish oil supplements) promotes hydrated skin and reduces excessive shedding.

• Keep Your Pup Hydrated & Active – Dehydration and stress can contribute to coat issues. Ensure your dog drinks plenty of fresh water and gets regular exercise to maintain overall wellness.

Spring Cleaning Strategies for a Fur-Free Home

With shedding at its peak, now’s the perfect time to refresh your home. A few simple cleaning strategies will help keep pet hair under control while maintaining a clean, allergen-free environment.

Pet Owner Cleaning Hacks:

• Upgrade Your Vacuum – Not all vacuums are created equal! A high-powered vacuum designed for pet hair (ideally with a HEPA filter) will help keep fur and allergens at bay.

• Use Washable Covers & Throws – Protect sofas and chairs with washable blankets or slipcovers. This makes it easier to remove fur and keep furniture fresh.

• Try Lint Rollers & Rubber Gloves – Lint rollers are great for clothing, while a damp rubber glove works wonders for picking up fur from couches and carpets.

• Invest in an Air Purifier – If you or your guests suffer from allergies, an air purifier with a HEPA filter can trap pet dander and improve indoor air quality.

• Deep Clean Your Dog’s Space – Regularly wash pet beds, blankets, and toys to keep odors and loose fur under control. Sprinkling baking soda before vacuuming can also help neutralize pet smells.

Bay Area Shedding Season—What Makes It Unique?

Thanks to the Bay Area’s mild Mediterranean climate, spring arrives early—sometimes as early as February. This can mean a double challenge for pet owners: increased shedding from seasonal coat changes and a surge in allergens like pollen, grass, and mold spores.

How It Affects You & Your Dog:

• Your pup may be itchier than usual, leading to more scratching and loose fur around the house.

• Dogs can carry allergens indoors, triggering sneezing fits for allergy-sensitive owners.

• The extended rainy season (often into March) can cause mold growth, irritating both human and canine allergies.

  
  

The “False Spring” Effect

February and March in the Bay Area can feel deceptively warm, sometimes reaching the high 60s or 70s. This tricks some dogs into an early shedding cycle—only to be met with a sudden cold snap in late March or April, confusing their coat even more.

What you might notice:

• Some dogs start shedding heavily in February, even though peak shedding season is typically later in spring.

• A second, unexpected round of shedding can occur in April or May after sudden temperature shifts.

A Fresh Start for You & Your Pup

Spring is a season of renewal—not just for your home, but for your pup’s well-being, too. By staying ahead of shedding season and tackling pet-friendly spring cleaning, you can create a clean, comfortable, and welcoming space for both you and your furry friend.

How do you manage shedding season in your home? Share your best tips in the comments or tag us on social media with your go-to spring cleaning hacks!