When Do German Shepherds Blow Their Coat?

German Shepherds usually blow their coats twice a year—in the spring and fall. This process is triggered by changes in daylight and temperature, signaling to your dog that it’s time to shed.

German Shepherd Fall Shedding Season

More pronounced shedding as they lose their thin summer coat.
Fall shedding is triggered by cooler temperatures and shorter days.
It may cause an increase in allergens in your home.

German Shepherd Spring Shedding Season

A surge in shedding as they shed their thick winter coat.
The undercoat sheds to regulate body temperature for warmer weather.
Regular grooming will maintain your house clean and reduce shedding.

In the fall, your German Shepherd will shed their summer coat to prepare for the thicker, warmer winter coat. You might notice more hair in your home, and if anyone in your household has allergies, they could be more sensitive to this increased shedding.

Your German Shepherd will lose their heavy winter undercoat in the spring in order to help them ready their body for the upcoming warmer months. You will probably need to boost your cleaning activities during this, as this is normally the most strong shedding time.

How Long Does It Take for a German Shepherd to Blow Their Coat?

Typically, the coat-blowing process takes anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks. During this time, it’s completely normal to see clumps of hair everywhere, especially on your furniture, carpets, and clothing. I always joke that I’ve got enough fur to knit another dog by the end of it!

While it can feel overwhelming, rest assured this is normal for your German Shepherd. But don’t worry—you won’t have to suffer through endless hair tumbleweeds if you follow some key grooming practices.

Grooming Tips for Coat Blowing Seasons

The best way to manage shedding is through regular grooming. This will not only reduce the amount of hair floating around your house but also help keep your German Shepherd comfortable. Here’s what I recommend:

Brush daily during shedding seasons: Regular brushing helps remove loose fur and can prevent matting in long-haired German Shepherds.
Invest in the right grooming tools: Not all brushes are created equal, so make sure you have the right tools for your dog’s coat type.

Essential Grooming Tools for Managing a Blowing Coat

During the coat-blowing seasons, having the right grooming tools can make a world of difference. Based on my experience and expert recommendations, here are some tools that I’ve found incredibly helpful:

Grooming Tool	Benefits	Notes
Pin and Bristle Brush	Helps separate hair follicles, improving blood circulation while removing dead hair.	Choose a combination brush with wire prongs that have plastic or silicone tips to provide a comfortable sensation for long coats.
Slicker Brush	Removes loose fur and tangles, promoting a healthier, smoother coat.	Look for one with fine wire bristles and a comfortable grip. Perfect for routine grooming.
Undercoat Rake	Highly effective for deshedding a blowing coat; reaches deep into the undercoat to remove dead hair.	Look for an undercoat rake with sturdy teeth that can penetrate the topcoat and target the dense undercoat. Soft handles are a bonus for longer grooming sessions.
Grooming Glove	Ideal for grabbing loose hair and introducing grooming to puppies.	Opt for gloves with rubberized prongs and an adjustable strap for a more comfortable and gentle grooming experience.
Deshedding Spray	A moisturizing spray to help reduce shedding and maintain skin health.	Look for a product that nourishes the skin and conditions the coat, helping manage fur during shedding seasons.

I’ve personally found the undercoat rake to be a lifesaver during the peak shedding seasons. It reaches deep into the undercoat to remove dead fur, which prevents those massive clumps from piling up around the house.

Pro Tips for Managing Shedding

Along with using the right grooming tools, here are some tips to make coat blowing a little more manageable for you and your dog:

Regular Bathing: Giving your German Shepherd a bath during coat-blowing seasons can help loosen the dead hair, making it easier to brush out afterward. Be sure to use a shampoo that’s designed for heavy shedders.
High-Quality Diet: A healthy diet can improve coat quality and reduce excessive shedding. I always make sure my German Shepherd gets a diet rich in omega fatty acids to keep his coat shiny and healthy.
Vacuum Often: This is more for you than your dog! A good vacuum cleaner designed for pet hair can make cleaning up easier during shedding season.

What Happens If You Shave a German Shepherd?

One question that often comes up is whether shaving a German Shepherd helps with shedding. I get it—dealing with all that fur can be overwhelming, and shaving may seem like an easy fix. But never shave your German Shepherd.

Shaving a German Shepherd’s double coat can lead to issues like sunburn, skin irritation, and even heatstroke because their coat helps regulate their body temperature. Instead, focus on consistent grooming and invest in a good vacuum to handle the extra fur during shedding seasons.

Conclusion

Shedding, especially during coat-blowing seasons, is a natural part of owning a German Shepherd. While it can feel like you’re constantly surrounded by fur, with the right grooming tools and techniques, you can keep shedding under control.

Regular grooming, using the appropriate brushes, and maintaining a healthy diet will help your German Shepherd feel comfortable and keep your home from being overtaken by hair. Remember, blowing a coat is a sign that your dog is healthy and adapting to seasonal changes, so embrace the fur—it’s all part of loving a German Shepherd!

Faq’s

When do German Shepherds blow their coat?

German Shepherds typically blow their coat twice a year, during the fall and spring seasons. This is when they shed their old coat to prepare for seasonal changes in temperature.

How long does it take for a German Shepherd to blow its coat?

The coat-blowing process usually lasts 2-4 weeks, during which you’ll notice increased shedding. Regular grooming can help manage the amount of fur around your home.

Why is my German Shepherd shedding so much?

German Shepherds are double-coated dogs, and they shed heavily during coat-blowing seasons. Shedding can also be influenced by changes in temperature, daylight, and your dog’s health.

What grooming tools are best for managing German Shepherd shedding?

Grooming tools like undercoat rakes, slicker brushes, and deshedding sprays are effective in managing the shedding process. Regular brushing can help keep your dog comfortable and reduce loose fur.

Can I shave my German Shepherd to reduce shedding?

No, shaving a German Shepherd is not recommended. Their double coat is essential for regulating body temperature and protecting their skin. Instead, focus on regular grooming during shedding seasons.