Do Doberman Pinschers Shed?

doberman pinscher shedding

Originally developed to be imposing and loyal protectors, it’s no secret why these tall and powerful pups are highly sought after. However, when you’re bringing a new family member into the house, you’ll likely have some questions of what to expect — especially when it comes to  Doberman Pinscher shedding!

If you’re considering getting a Doberman Pinscher here’s the good news: Your home will be safer, you’ll have a playful new friend, your family will have a loyal companion and best of all, you’ll only have to deal with moderate shedding.

Doberman’s tend to shed moderately year-round at approximately the same rate. If you get into a solid routine of fur maintenance, the whole process is very manageable.

Coat Specifics

Unless you have a crossbreed, Dobermans are single coated, which means you won’t have a large undercoat to deal with. If you’ve ever been to someone’s house and there’s more dog hair on the carpet than there is carpet, chances are they own a double coated pup. However, if your Pinscher spends a lot of time outside, come spring time you may notice him shedding more than usual. He’s exchanging that thick winter coat for a light spring windbreaker.

Grooming

Of course, there’s no way to stop your dog from shedding, it’s just a part of who he is. But, dog hair everywhere can be a bit of a nuisance. The best way to prevent it from spreading is by managing it at the source; brushing and regular grooming are a must.

doberman pinscher coat health

A few dog grooming tips are to use a stiff brush or a grooming mitt once or twice a week.

Not only does this stop hair from spreading but it also removes dead hair and debris particles. Not to mention it spreads naturally occurring oils around his coat, leaving them looking clean and shiny.

Allergies

Unfortunately, if someone in your household happens to be allergic to doggie dander, even the smallest amount of shedding can evoke runny noses, sneezing, and even cause trouble breathing.

Allergies can be a challenging obstacle to overcome, especially if your living situation forces you to co-exist with a dog. There are several proven methods to help remedy the situation.

Tips for people with allergies

  • Establish a no dog zone in your house. This can act as a safe zone in case your allergies flare up. The bedroom is a popular choice so that you don’t interrupt a good night’s sleep
  • Installing a High-Efficiency Particulate Air Filter (HEPA) will help manage the airborne dander
  • Buy a HEPA vacuum cleaner
  • Washing your pup every week can reduce dander by up to 84%
  • Buy special high thread count sheets that are impermeable to dander particles coming in contact with the mattress.
  • Clean the house frequently, especially dust prone fabrics such as sheets, pillows, drapes, carpets and blankets.
  • Use special shampoos that are designed to reduce the production of dander.
  • Visit a specialist and have them diagnose your allergies. There may be a medical remedy that will help you resist the uncomfortable effects

More Maintenance Tips

The Doberman does not give off a strong odor, so while he may be big, he isn’t known for being smelly. As an owner this means less time trying to get an 80-pound dog to sit still in the bathtub. Most owners report that only 4-5 baths per year will suffice.

doberman pinscher coat

Less baths means it’s important to check areas where infections are likely to occur, such as the ears.

It’s recommended that you check often for wax build-up or other signs of infection. Clean your Dobies ears frequently using a cotton ball or a vet suggested cleaner.

Skin and Coat Related Medical Issues

Unfortunately, the Doberman happens to be one of those breeds who are predisposed to a number of challenging medical conditions, some of which affect his beautiful coat.

You may notice your Dobie shedding more than usual around the neck, belly and chest. This is a sign of pattern baldness — something that is common in the Doberman family.

There are some conditions such as canine demodectic mange (usually in puppies) that leads to hair loss. This is usually accompanied by some form of skin irritation. Keep an eye out for sores and skin irregularities, as Dobermans tend to have sensitive skin which is prone to irritation (often caused by excessive licking).

Often overlooked, one of the best ways to prevent excessive shedding is by maintaining a balanced diet and a solid regimen of exercise. High-quality nutrients provide his coat with the vitamins and minerals he needs to grow strong and robust. Regular exercise also promotes strong blood circulation and healthy skin, which will not only keep your pup mentally happy, but he’ll be looking good as well!

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