How Much Do Whippets Shed? Health & Grooming Tips
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When you bring home a new dog, it’s essential to consider factors such as temperament, healthcare, exercise, and grooming needs. Some factors, such as shedding, will be more important than others for various reasons. For example, the shedding will be a huge factor in your decision if you suffer from allergies. If the graceful Whippet has stolen your heart, you will be happy to know they are typically a low-shedding breed.
However, they still require grooming. In this article, we’ll discuss how much they shed, how you can manage their shedding, and grooming tips.
Do Whippets Shed?
Whippets shed, but they are considered a low-shedding breed and generally shed much less than other breeds. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), their shedding level is 2/5.
Their short and fine coats are not as prone to clinging to furniture and clothing as much as other breeds’ hair.
How Much Do Whippets Shed?
Whippets shed their coats twice a year, once in the spring to get rid of their winter coat and once in the autumn to get rid of their summer coat. This natural hair-shedding process promotes the growth of new hair and regulates body temperature. Although their coats are easy to maintain, there are a few factors that can influence how much your Whippet sheds:
Overall Health
Just like our overall health affects our hair and skin, your dog’s health will also affect their coat. If your Whippet receives a high-quality and well-balanced diet, they will get all the essential nutrients they need to stay healthy and keep their coat healthy. If you notice a sudden increase in the amount of shedding, it’s best to have a health check-up with your veterinarian to rule out any health issues.
Stress and Anxiety
Dogs can experience stress and anxiety just like we do, and Whippets are known to be easily stressed. They are sensitive dogs, and if they experience a sudden change in their environment or routine, they may become stressed. Too much stress and anxiety can cause your Whippet to lose more hair, so it is vital to help manage their environment.
Coat Care
Your Whippet’s coat maintenance can also impact how much they shed. Brushing it regularly can help remove loose hairs that haven’t fallen yet and can also help distribute the skin’s natural oils.
Overbathing your Whippet can irritate and dry out their skin, which can lead to more shedding. Only bathe your Whippet occasionally and use a pet-safe, gentle shampoo.
Are Whippets Hypoallergenic?
Before we answer that question, it’s important to note that no dog is 100% hypoallergenic. People who suffer from pet allergies are allergic to a protein found in a pet’s skin and saliva. This protein is spread around the home through their dander and loose hair. So while Whippets don’t shed as much as other breeds, they are not considered hypoallergenic. However, they may be a better choice for owners who suffer from allergies since they don’t shed as much hair and dander as other breeds.
Do Whippets Need a Lot of Grooming?
Whippets do not require much grooming, and their coat is easy to maintain.
Brushing them once or twice a week is all that is needed to remove loose hairs and keep their coat healthy. In addition to removing dead hairs from their coat, brushing can reduce shedding, meaning less hair will go on your furniture and carpets. Brushing encourages the oils in their coat to disperse through their coat and skin, which encourages a healthy, moisture-rich coat.
Because they have such a short, smooth coat, bristle brushes are the best to use. A bristle brush that has tightly packed bristles. A rubber hand glove can also be used if your dog doesn’t enjoy being brushed.
Keeping Your Whippets Coat and Health in Top Shape
Keeping your Whippet in top shape can significantly reduce shedding.
- Ensure your Whippet receives a high-quality, well-balanced diet. Ask your veterinarian about the best options for your dog.
- Provide your Whippet with adequate mental and physical stimulation every day.
- Try to reduce any triggers for stress and anxiety.
- Keep up with your dog’s annual veterinary check-ups.
- Groom your Whippet regularly to keep their fur healthy and to check for any injuries, scrapes, or sores.
- Brush your Whippet at least once a week.
- Protect your Whippet against parasites such as ticks and fleas.
- Only bathe your Whippet when necessary using a gentle, pet-safe shampoo.
- Speak to your vet about appropriate supplements for your dog’s coat and skin health.
Conclusion
Whippets shed, like most dogs, but they are considered to be a low-shedding breed. A few factors can affect how much a Whippet sheds, such as climate, health, and coat maintenance. While Whippets are not considered hypoallergenic, they are a better choice for owners who suffer from pet allergies and can’t tolerate pet hair all over their homes and clothing. If you are concerned about shedding, ensure your Whippet is groomed regularly, kept healthy, and has regular check-ups with your veterinarian.
Featured Image Credit: JR foto, Shutterstock
