Shedding season comes around every year. From working cockers to golden retrievers, here's everything you need to know about grooming your dog — the right tools, the right routine, and tips by breed from the team at Feedem Pet Supermarket.
Why Regular Grooming Matters
As dogs shed their coat — particularly in spring and autumn — loose fur mats into the undercoat, trapping heat and causing skin irritation. Without regular grooming, this builds up quickly. A consistent grooming routine keeps your dog comfortable, reduces shedding around the home, and gives you a chance to check for early signs of fleas, ticks, or skin issues.
How Often Should You Groom Your Dog?
During peak shedding season (typically March to May and September to October in the UK), most dogs benefit from grooming 2–3 times per week rather than the usual once a week. Heavy shedders like huskies, golden retrievers, and German shepherds may need daily attention during these periods.
The Right Tools for the Job
Using the correct tool for your dog's coat type makes a significant difference. Browse our full Dog Grooming range at Feedem, including:
- Slicker brushes — ideal for removing loose fur and light tangles from most coat types
- Undercoat rakes — essential for double-coated breeds to remove dead undercoat without cutting the topcoat
- Deshedding tools — the FURminator range is particularly effective for heavy shedders, reducing loose hair by up to 90%
- Combs — useful for finishing and checking for tangles, especially around ears and legs
Shop the full FURminator collection or browse all Dog Grooming tools at Feedem.
Breed-Specific Grooming Tips
Working Cocker Spaniels
Their silky, wavy coat picks up mud and debris easily. Brush through 2–3 times a week with a slicker brush, paying particular attention to the ears, chest, and leg feathering where tangles form fastest. A professional trim every 8–10 weeks keeps the coat manageable.
Golden Retrievers
Golden retrievers have a dense double coat that sheds heavily during moulting season. Use an undercoat rake followed by a slicker brush, and consider a FURminator deshedding tool 1–2 times per week during peak shedding. Never shave a golden retriever — their double coat regulates body temperature year-round.
Labradors
Labs are surprisingly heavy shedders despite their short coat. A rubber grooming mitt or short-bristle brush used daily during shedding season keeps loose fur under control. The FURminator for short-haired dogs works exceptionally well on Labs.
Border Collies
Their medium-length double coat needs brushing at least every other day during moulting periods. Focus on the mane, hindquarters, and tail where matting is most common. An undercoat rake followed by a slicker brush is the most effective combination.
Poodles & Doodles
Poodle crosses don't shed in the traditional sense but their curly coats mat quickly, especially in damp weather. Daily brushing with a slicker brush and regular professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is essential year-round.
Supporting Coat Health from the Inside
Good grooming starts with what goes in the bowl. Foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids — found in quality fish-based and cold-pressed dog foods — support healthy skin and a noticeably shinier coat. If your dog is shedding excessively outside of normal moulting periods, diet is worth reviewing. Browse our dry dog food range for options with quality fish oils and natural ingredients.
After the Walk — Paw and Coat Care
Muddy walks are part of life in the UK. A quick brush-through after every walk — even just 2–3 minutes — prevents mud from drying into the coat and forming mats. Pay particular attention to paws, between the toes, and the belly. A damp cloth or paw washer keeps things manageable without a full bath every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I groom my dog during shedding season?
Most dogs benefit from grooming 2–3 times per week during peak shedding (spring and autumn). Heavy shedders like huskies, golden retrievers, and German shepherds may need daily brushing during these periods.
What's the best grooming tool for a heavy shedder?
A deshedding tool like the FURminator is highly effective for heavy shedders, reducing loose hair by up to 90%. Pair it with an undercoat rake for double-coated breeds.
Should I bathe my dog more during shedding season?
A bath every 4–6 weeks is generally sufficient — overbathing strips natural oils from the coat. A good brush-through before and after bathing helps remove loose fur more effectively.
Can diet affect how much my dog sheds?
Yes — foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids support healthy skin and coat condition, which can reduce excessive shedding. If your dog is shedding heavily outside of normal moulting periods, it's worth reviewing their diet.
Browse our full range of dog grooming tools and FURminator products at Feedem Pet Supermarket. Free UK delivery available on qualifying orders.