Have you just brought your little Border Collie to your sweet home? Or are you just curious about the Border Collie shedding? In this blog, I’m going to illustrate the complete Border Collie shedding process.
So, keep on reading till the end!
Do Border Collies Shed a Lot?
Border collies typically shed a moderate amount throughout the year. However, in some cases, shedding can increase dramatically due to factors such as changes in climate or lifestyle. The dog’s shedding will reach an excessive level twice a year and need to be controlled with brushing and hair removal.
The main reason for Border Collie’s shedding is his double coat. So let’s have a deep look at the Border Collie Coat.
Border Collie Coat Characteristics
As I have described above, the Border Collie has a double coat. The outer coat of the Border Collie is long, smooth, and feathered. On the other hand, the undercoat is shorter and rougher.
Here are some of the Border Collie coat characteristics:
- The coat of a Border Collie is most often black with a white blaze on the face, feet, neck, legs, and tail tip.
- Most often, the coat is weather-resistant.
- Brushing should be done on a weekly basis to keep the coat’s oil well distributed.
- Brushing should be more frequent during the spring and summer.
- Because of their double coat, Border Collies can tolerate cold weather but cannot live outside in it.
When Does Border Collie Shed The Most?
The shedding level of Border Collies depends on various factors. Some factors are as follows:
1. Stage of Life
Border collies are a herding breed of dog, and as such, they are known to shed a lot. This is especially true during the early stages of their life when they are growing and developing their coat.
If you have a Border Collie puppy, then you might have noticed that it has a thick and fluffy coat. This coat gives this little soul some extra warmth. However, this coat will not be with them for their whole life.
Generally, this thick and fluffy coat starts shedding at the age of 1 or 2 years. After this shedding process, Border Collie will have a new fur.
As they get older, however, the amount of shedding tends to decrease.
2. Time of Year
Border Collie shed more during two seasons in the year, So keep your brush ready during this time. The seasons in which most of the shedding takes place are as follows:
- Spring
- Fall
3. Skin Conditions and Pests
The shedding of Border Collie is usually normal, but sometimes shedding can increase because of medical conditions. If you see a lot of shedding throughout the whole year, then it’s a great idea to visit your Veterinarian.
Some of the signs that a dog is shedding due to a medical condition include:
- the sound of them constantly scratching,
- having an ugly rash on their skin,
- not being able to stop scratching their ear or licking their toes,
- having pus-filled blisters on the hairless portion of their abdomen.
4. Diet and Exercise
Diet and exercises are not directly related to the shedding of Border Collie. However, it can increase shedding indirectly.
For example, if your dog’s diet is unhealthy, it will eventually lead him to some medical condition that will cause a lot of shedding. That’s why taking care of the diet and exercise is also important to prevent future issues.
11 Tips to Reduce Shedding of a Border Collie
Now, we have learned a lot about the shedding of a Border Collie. Let’s have a look at the tips that you can follow to prevent abnormal or excessive shedding of a Border Collie:
Tip #1: Brush Your Dog
My first recommendation for reducing a Border Collie’s shedding is to regularly brush your dog. This is the easiest step any dog owner can take in less than ten minutes.
Note: Kindly see my recommended Tools and Equipment section below to see my recommended tools to reduce shedding.
Tip #2: Pick The Right Dog Food
Sometimes unhealthy food can also cause excessive shedding. So, try to pick the right healthy and digestible food for your dog.
Ollie is a dedicated food supplying platform where dog food is prepared with premium quality ingredients in human-grade kitchens. They deliver precisely portioned and naturally driven food to your home, such as protein, minerals, and vitamin-packed beef; chicken; lamb; turkey, etc.
In addition, they feature many recipes suggested by nutritionists, including hormone-free meat, and healthy meals without any by-products or funky fillers.
- No excipients or fillers are used in the formation of pet food.
- Customized meal plan for your dog after undergoing a short quiz.
- Deliver fresh food in small portions.
- Change your plan or cancel your subscription at any time.
- The meal comes with a feeding guide and free tools such as feeding scoops, and little containers.
- Only once a week shipping.
Tip #3: Add a Fatty Acid Supplement to Your Dog’s Diet
According to experts, giving your dog some fatty acid supplements can reduce shedding. I give this supplement to my Border Collie, but it’s entirely up to you to choose the best brand for your workaholic dog.
Tip #4: Exercise Your Dog
Exercise is also very important for reducing Border Collie’s shedding. Regular exercise will help to keep your dog’s muscles and joints healthy, which will, in turn, reduce the amount of hair that he sheds.
Tip #5: Use The Right Brush
Different brushes have been designed for different breeds, don’t purchase any brush you see. Take time to research whether this brush is the right choice for your dog or not.
Tip #6: Choose a Shedding Tool
Shedding tools can work magically to reduce the shedding process. Some of these tools are pretty expensive, but you will have to do some little research to find the best tool for your dog. This shedding tool has excellent value for money.
Tip #7: Increase Water Intake
Less water intake can increase dryness and shedding. So, frequently check your dog’s water bowl and make sure that whether your companion is taking enough water or not.
Tip #8: Bathe Often
Bathing can also help in reducing the shedding process. Give him a bath at least once a week and choose a shampoo that can reduce shedding without drying the skin of your dog.
Tip #9: Remove Hair From Upholstery and Your Dog’s Bed as Soon as Possible
As I said earlier, upholstery works as a magnet for dogs’ hairs. So, clean the upholstery and dog’s bed regularly.
Tip #10: Take Control of Fleas
Fleas are not only responsible for the shedding, but they can also cause some serious medical issues to your dog’s health. That’s why taking fleas away from your dog is your responsibility.
Tip #11: Cover Your Furniture and Car Seats
Sometimes upholstery works as a magnet for dog hairs. That’s why covering it could be the best step that you can take to reduce the shedding of your Border Collie.
Tools and Equipment to Help Combat Border Collie Shedding
Using tools and equipment can help combat Border Collie Shedding. Here are some of my recommended products that you can use to reduce Border Collie shedding:
Nutri-Vet Shed Defense: These Soft Chews for dogs helps to protect skin and create a shiny, healthier coat. If your Border Collie shed quite a lot, then it’s a must-have product for you!
- HEALTHY SKIN - Helps to protect skin and create a shiny, healthier coat.
- HELPS SUPPORT NORMAL SHEDDING - Good for all size dogs
- OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS - Salmon oil is an excellent source of the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA.
- GREAT TASTE - Great tasting natural hickory smoke flavor.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Pet Grooming Kit: It’s a complete pet grooming kit that you can use to reduce the shedding of your Border Collie.
- PERFECT PET GROOMING GIFT KIT: Best pet grooming tool gift set! Leave behind the grooming headache, and rid your four-legged friend of undercoat and loose hair effortlessly. Save time and money on expensive visits to the vet for pet grooming services! Great Gifting Idea!
- SELF CLEANING SLICKER BRUSH: PetPull dog brush gently removes loose hair and eliminates tangles, knots, dander and trapped dirt from your pet’s coat. The retractable fine curved bristles are self-protecting and make it super simple to remove all hair from the pet brush.
- THE DESHEDDING GROOMING BRUSH: Durable heavy use de shedding tool reduces dog and cat shedding hair by up to 95%. Gently comb and remove dead hair leaving a healthy, shiny pet coat. Detachable stainless steel blade is designed for both short-haired and long-haired pets.
- PET GROOMING GLOVES PAIR: Enhanced five finger design silicone tips allows you to groom hard-to-reach places like face, legs or tail. Quality bath brush helps clean pets while providing a soft and relaxing massage and improves blood circulation. Stretchable one size fits all pet mitt is washable, comfortable to wear, and has an adjustable wrist strap.
- PREMIUM QUALITY GUARANTEE: Lifetime satisfaction promise make it the ideal gift to all pet owners. Establish strong bonds and offer your puppy or kitten deluxe grooming services from head to paws. These products are made to last through long years of effortless pet grooming!
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Coastal Pet Dual-Sided Dog Shedding Blade: This shedding blade is best for you if you have a medium to large size Border Collie. It will help you keep your dog and home clean by removing excess hair.
- For Clean Home: Keep your dog and home clean by removing excess hair with this dog hair cleaner
- Cut Down on Shedding: Ridged stainless steel blade efficiently sheds even the thickest coats
- Best Usage for Large Surface: This pet hair remover sheds large surface with handles held apart
- Best Usage for Smaller Surfaces: Targets smaller surface areas with handles held together
- Exceptional Quality:This dog shedding brush maintains a healthy, beautiful coat
- Best suited for medium to large breeds
- Two-sided blade with coarse and fine edges can be used straight or looped to safely remove loose hair
- Do not apply too much pressure
- Once loose hair and debris is removed, follow up with a Safari brush to leave your dogs coat smooth and shiny
- Suggested breeds: Beagle, Welsh Corgis, Basset Hound, Spaniels, Boxer, Retrievers, Dalmatian
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
FAQs
What Can Cause a Border Collie to Shed More?
Here are some of the things that can cause your Border Collie to shed more:
Changes in weather and season
Physical or emotional stress
Medical Issues or allergies
A change in routine
Upholstery
Are Border Collies Considered a Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?
No, Border Collies are not considered hypoallergenic, but it is always best to consult a vet before introducing a new dog into the home. Some of the allergens that can cause problems for people who are allergic to dogs include dander, saliva, and hair.
Does Border Collie Need Haircuts?
No. Border Collies usually look prettier even without a haircut. By giving them haircuts during the winter season, you could damage their coat and unknowingly impact their warmth and protection. If you still want to give him a haircut, you should get help from professionals.
How Long Does Border Collie Shed?
Border Collie shed at a moderate rate most of the time. However, during Spring and Summer seasons, the shedding process increases to prepare for the upcoming season.
Why Is My Border Collie Shedding so Much?
Usually, the shedding of Border Collie is normal. But if your Collie shed a lot more than normal, then there could be a couple of reasons behind it. Some of them are as follows:
Time of year
Skin Conditions & pests
Diet and Exercise
Stress and medical issues
Final Thoughts
Now you might have a clear understanding of shedding in Border Collies. We have discussed the various reasons behind excessive shedding in border collies and some tips to reduce shedding in Border Collies.
Do Border Collies shed excessively?
Border Collies are considered to be medium to high shedding dogs. Most of the year, Border Collie shed at the moderate level. However, during Spring and Summer, the shedding process speeds up to prepare for the upcoming season.
However, If you still have some questions about Border Collies, please let me know. I would love to hear from your side.
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