Pit Bulls and Shedding
Do Pit Bulls shed? This is one question that spikes up a debate among dog lovers worldwide. Pit Bulls have gradually become popular dogs for most families. However, Before buying or adopting a Pit Bull, you need to know the truth about their fur.
Pit Bulls are single-coated breeds, so they don’t shed much. Stay with us to learn more about Pit Bull shedding.
Do Pit Bulls Shed?
Surprisingly, yes! Despite having a single coat, Pit Bulls shed more frequently than other single-coated breeds. The good news is that despite their shed, they are relatively simple to maintain. Caring for Pit Bulls is easier since they do not require haircuts.
Pit Bulls have hair (there is a difference, believe it or not). A Yorkie or a Maltese, which have lower shedding rates, have fur, which has a longer growth cycle.
Why is My Pit Bull Shedding So Much?
You might be wondering, how much do Pit Bulls shed? As much as Pit Bulls shed their coats more often, they aren’t likely to shed so much. However, numerous factors might cause your Pit Bull to shed excessively. Some of these causes may require veterinarian advice. Here are some causes of excessive shedding:
Allergies
Pit Bulls, regrettably, are susceptible to skin allergies because they have an immune system condition called skin allergic atopy. Although many Pit Bulls do not have the condition, and those frequently have mild cases, the symptoms can take a wide range of forms.
These skin allergies in your Pit Bull frequently lead to excessive shedding. Watch out for a few of these other signs if you find your Pit Bull is losing more hair:
- Itchiness
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Red, swollen, or inflammatory skin lesions
- Coughing, running nose, or sneezing
- Runny, swollen, or red eyes
- Heated or swollen ears
It’s also possible that a food allergy may cause your dog to shed excessively. It is advisable to change your Pit Bull’s diet and observe if they continue to shed more than usual. If this persists, consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Irritants
Your Pit Bull may not always have itchy, red areas that indicate allergies. They may get particularly scratchy for various reasons and shed more fur as a result. Dogs are also a target for fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and other stinging insects. The short coat of your Pit Bull doesn’t provide them with much defense against these sneaky small critters.
Your Pit Bull might likely get skin irritation from insects or plants (such as oleander, juniper shrubs, mulberry trees, and sago palms), especially after they spend a lot of time outdoors. These are more likely to result in patchy spots and an all-over shedding.
While many of these skin irritations might go away independently, your veterinarian may recommend medication. Mostly, some anti-itch cream to hasten the healing process and lessen your Pit Bull’s itching and shedding.
Hormones
Pit Bulls can experience variations in their skin’s oil production due to hormonal changes.
When your dog reaches puberty, it may experience hormonal changes that may impact its body, causing them to shed excessively.
For example, your Pit Bull may shed more than usual when pregnant or after giving birth. Similarly, if your Pit Bull has recently undergone spaying or neutering, their bodies tend to adjust to the hormone changes. This could cause an increase in the amount of hair they are losing.
Anxiety
You might be surprised to learn this, but anxiety and fear often cause Pit Bull’s excessive shedding. Due to their conflicting instincts, Pit Bulls can become very anxious when their needs are unmet or under extreme behavioral pressure. Any circumstance that leaves your Pit Bull unsure of how to act may make them shed more.
You can tell if your dog gets stressed out by looking for other indicators of elevated anxiety in Pit Bulls, such as heavy panting, a wide-eyed face, a tucked tail, or excessive barking. Pay attention and make sure they can unwind because you know your Pit Bull best.
Dryness
A Pit Bull with dehydrated skin may become itchy, and the resultant scratching may cause bald spots to develop due to excessive shedding. One mistake many Pit Bull owners make is bathing their dog too often.
Dog shampoo contains soaps that remove the natural oils from your Pit Bull’s coat. That is the fundamental idea! But if you do it too frequently, your dog loses the capacity to regenerate these oils to lubricate their skin. Thus, they end up with dry and itchy skin, and shedding occurs.
You should only wash your dog once a month and more frequently if they are unclean or smelly. This is essential to help them naturally retain their coat. Dog baths often serve the interests of the pet owner more than the dog.
Environmental changes, notably a sharp drop in relative humidity, can also cause dry skin. This could be external, like taking your dog on vacation to a dry location, or seasonal, like the first cold snap.
Diet
Food allergies do not often relate to poor diet. Ensure your dog eats a balanced diet because what they eat is what they use to maintain and repair their bodies and coats.
Your Pit Bull’s body may become stressed out by dietary changes. If your dog’s hair suddenly starts to fall out after you recently changed their food or even introduced a new treat, you should consider returning to their previous food.
Your Pit Bull’s poor nutrition may have finally caught up to them if you haven’t recently changed their diet, but they are still losing more hair than usual. It means that they aren’t getting enough nutrition to grow a healthy coat.
Pit Bulls regularly replace their coats to maintain themselves svelte and glossy. This requires a balanced diet rich in proteins and lipids to produce new hairs.
How to Stop My Pit Bull From Shedding
You can lessen the amount of hair they lose by using particular grooming methods, reducing your Pit Bull’s stress, and ensuring their coat is in good condition. Remember that your Pit Bull is bound to shed some, so you must pick up some tricks to cope with it. Here are some:
Brush
The greatest approach to improve your dog’s coat and keep up with all that shedding fur is, without a doubt, regular brushing. Pit Bulls are usually low-maintenance dogs. Even though you might not have a consistent method for brushing your Pit Bull, if it is shedding excessively, you must establish a regular brushing routine.
Brushing your Pit Bull at least once a week would be best. You can raise that to once or twice daily if you discover they are still shedding. You will notice less fur falling on the floor after brushing since it eliminates the damaged or old fur that would otherwise fall out randomly all over the house.
Brushing your Pit Bull evenly distributes the natural oils on its body. Certainly, they may have a few areas, usually on their legs or bellies, where they don’t produce the proper amount of oils to keep their coats healthy. Regular brushing moisturizes and lubricates their coats by distributing their oils uniformly across their hair and skin.
Wash
A bath might assist your Pit Bull in getting rid of old fur before it sheds all over your house. Pit Bulls typically like water, so bathing shouldn’t be too difficult. Dogs with regular, healthy coats only require occasional bathing, typically once a month.
However, increasing this to twice a month or more frequently is worth it if your dog has skin conditions that make them shed a lot. Also, it would be best to use a gentle dog shampoo if you wash your Pit Bull more frequently than once per month.
If not, you can simply rinse them off with the hose or in the bathtub without using any soap. Just remove the loose hair from your Pit Bull with a washcloth or a scrubber.
It would be best if you only used bathing your dog more frequently than once a month as a short-term solution to assist them in overcoming their shedding issues. You’ll probably need to give your dog a medicinal wash if they react to insect bites or fungus, like ringworms, to eliminate the inflammation.
Be sure to follow the suggested instructions precisely, or you risk worsening your dog’s skin issues. This is regardless of whether you use prescription medication or an over-the-counter remedy from your local pet store.
Diet
Diet is significant for any dog’s health, and Pit Bulls are no exception. It might be a shock, but your Pit Bull’s diet directly relates to how they shed. Poor nutrition can make a dog’s skin drier, increasing shedding.
High-quality food helps lessen shedding and keep your dog’s coat in ideal condition. Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E-rich foods should keep the skin and coat healthy.
Do Pit Bulls Have an Undercoat?
Pit Bulls have shorter coats, and since they are single-coated dogs, they do not have an undercoat. This indicates that fur usually comes off independently and isn’t caught in the layers. Additionally, it means there is typically less hair when they blow out their coats for the season.
How to Deshed a Pit Bull
A good pin brush should make most of your Pit Bull’s fur easily manageable. So, purchasing a de-shedding tool for your Pit Bull is unnecessary. Nonetheless, each dog is unique, so if you see your Pit Bull shedding more than usual after your veterinarian has ruled out any medical conditions, a deshedding tool might be helpful.
Use a deshedding tool to brush off fur from your Pit Bull just a couple of times a week.
Do Pit Bulls Have Whiskers?
Yes! Pit Bulls have whiskers. In fact, all dogs have whiskers, albeit the location varies depending on the breed. Even dog breeds without hair have whiskers. Curly whiskers are common in breeds with curly fur, although they function just as effectively as straight ones.
Most dog breeds have whiskers over the eyes and above and below the mouth. The various varieties of dog whiskers include:
- Mystacial whiskers: These whiskers, found on the muzzle, aid the dog in detecting characteristics of adjacent items, such as their size and texture.
- Superciliary and supraorbital whiskers: These whiskers, found close to the eyes, warn the dog of potential eye risks.
- General whiskers: Usually found on the cheeks, these aid the dog in determining whether a passageway is too small for it to pass through. They also benefit a dog’s ability to swim while maintaining its head above the water.
- Interramal whiskers: These whiskers grow from the moles on the chin. They aid the dog in learning about objects that are nearby but out of their line of sight.
Note: Whiskers are scientifically known as vibrissae. They have as many blood arteries and nerve endings as a human finger, making them extremely sensitive.
When Do Pit Bulls Shed the Most?
Pit Bulls don’t have a season when they shed. They don’t blow out their coats in the spring and fall as double-coated dogs do. They shed all year round, but it is more regular than double-coated types.
How Often Do Pit Bulls Shed?
One of the reasons why so many people wonder if Pit Bulls shed is because their coats are often short. Although they shed, it is frequently less than other dog breeds with longer hair. Four distinct Pit Bull breed names might help us comprehend how often Pit Bulls shed their coats. These are:
American Bully
One of the shortest Pit Bull breeds, the American Bully makes up for its low stature with strength. These dogs have short, lustrous coats that are simple to care for. The American Bully sheds its coat moderately throughout the year.
American Pit Bull Terrier
First, when you hear the name “Pit Bull,” the breed of dog that usually first springs to mind is the American Pit Bull Terrier. Their short coat comes in various hues and sheds moderately throughout the year.
American Staffordshire Terrier
Despite having short coats, American Staffordshire Terriers still have a lot of shedding. Shedding isn’t as problematic for short-haired breeds as it can be for long-haired ones, particularly if they shed seasonally (in the spring and autumn). However, there is still a lot of fur on the floor, so you might need to hoover frequently.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Compared to other Pit Bulls, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a little smaller. This breed has a tight, glossy coat. When it comes to grooming, Staffordshire Bull Terriers require very little maintenance. However, they typically have one heavy shed annually.
Why do Pit Bulls Shed?
Pit Bulls are sensitive canines like any dog. They aren’t likely to shed more or less because of the seasons. However, there are a lot of other possibilities that could affect how often you notice fur around your house. They include:
- Stress
- Diet
- Dehydration
- Allergy
- Skin conditions
- Insect bites
If the frequency of normal shedding suddenly increases, it’s best to be safe and get a medical diagnosis. Your veterinarian can rule out any major medical conditions and assuage your concerns if none exist.
Characteristics of the Pit Bull Coat
Pit Bulls have short, smooth fur with a delicate texture. Their coats also don’t need grooming as frequently as other dog breeds with thicker or longer coats. Unlike other breeds, like Huskies and Golden Retrievers, they don’t have an undercoat.
Pit Bulls can control their body temperature more effectively in warm weather because single-layer coats are typically thinner and less fluffy than double-layer coats. It also suggests that Pit Bulls may be more vulnerable to the cold and require additional winter protection.
Do Blue Nose Pit Bulls Shed?
Blue Nose Pit Bulls shed their coat continuously all year long. This indicates they don’t need to see the groomer frequently to maintain their fur. Additionally, since blue nose pitties don’t have an undercoat to shed, you won’t have to deal with huge piles of fur because they shed the same amount all year.
Top GroomersLand Tips for Bully Grooming
Brush Your Pit Bull’s Coat Weekly
Brushing your dog’s coat encourages the distribution of its natural oils, which improves the condition of its skin and coat. Naturally, the more you brush your dog, the more fur you’ll catch. Remember that a Pit Bull has no topcoat to keep its fur on its body. Thus, it will constantly shed wherever they go.
Brushing them as least once a week can prevent this from getting untidy, which can happen quickly. Additionally, it shouldn’t take long because your dog only needs to have their coat brushed a few times before they’re ready to go!
We advise paying attention to your dog’s body while brushing. Check for lumps, swelling, redness, insects, and dandruff. It can help you detect everything from fleas to dry skin to cancer, and early detection of illnesses is always preferable, regardless of their severity.
Bathe Your Pit Bull More Often
Your pit bull may only require a bath a few times a year and will probably remain relatively clean. Of course, some dogs are more daring than others; if yours like rolling in dust or mud, they’ll require more frequent washing. Follow these tips on how to bathe your Pit Bull.
- Invest in dog shampoo. Any product designed for dogs should work fine. Avoid using human shampoos, which may irritate or dry your dog’s skin.
- Completely wet your dog’s body – use a jug to pour water over your Pit Bull in a bathtub. Alternatively, use a hose or shower head. First, make sure the temperature is correct.
- Squeeze a small amount of shampoo onto your hands, then rub it through your dog’s fur. Ensure it gets to areas that are difficult to access, such as their feet, armpits, and collar.
- Rinse off all of the shampoos thoroughly using clean water. Move your hand back and forth across your dog’s fur to ensure no soap suds are left.
- If you want to hydrate your dog, use coconut oil or dog conditioner. This can help avoid dry skin and a coat, although optional.
Schedule a Monthly Nail Trimming
A monthly nail trimming routine will prevent your dog’s nails from becoming painfully long. This often makes walking challenging or causes the nails to curl into the paw pads. Long nails can hurt because they can catch on things and break unevenly.
Although trimming the nails once a month is a good place to start, some pit bulls may require more frequent trimming. If you see they are growing long or pointy, you can clip them more often. Sharp nails can be a real pain for humans, especially if your dog loves to jump or throw its paw when excited. Here’s how to effectively cut your pit bull’s nails:
- Begin with training. It will significantly help if you desensitize your Pit Bull to having their paws handled and to the nail trimmers themselves. Start by stroking their feet while patting or cuddling them; reward excellent behavior with treats and affection. Be sure to praise them for any constructive interactions, and let them smell and hear the nail clippers as they close.
- Find the quick. It’s easy to see the quick in light-colored nails; it appears as a pink patch close to the base of each paw. However, it might be impossible to see in darker nails. Because it will bleed and hurt if cut into, it is crucial to know where the quick is. Although every dog’s nails are unique, at the very least, having a general idea will lessen the likelihood of an accident.
- Only trim each claw’s tip. This will reduce the likelihood of cutting into the fast and acclimate you and your dog to the procedure. Slowly shorten them as your self-assurance grows.
- Think about a filing board or a Dremel for nails. Both tools only extract a few nail bits at a time to reduce the risk of cutting into the quick. With enough training and rewards, you can train your Pit Bull to scratch at a file board itself.
- To stop bleeding, use flour or cornstarch. Both of these should quickly stop the bleeding if you cut into the quick. Seek veterinary care if your dog’s bleeding lasts longer because the wound might be severe.
Clean Your Pit Bull’s Ears Every Month
Cleaning your pit bull’s ears will keep them clear of debris and help avoid ear infections. Additionally, it can lessen ear odor. It’s effortless to do, and most dogs love it. Check out these easy tips on how to clean your Pit Bull’s ears:
- Turn the ear “inside-out” to determine if they are dirty. Additionally, check for any redness, swelling, or unusual discharge. Also, be keen on odors as these can point to ear issues like an infection or mites.
- Use a dog ear cleanser to wet a Q-tip, soft cloth, cotton pad, or cotton ball, and gently remove debris from the outer ear. Apply a small amount of baby oil or another cleaning solution.
- Never put anything inside the ear canal of your dog. It may even break their eardrum and drive wax deeper inside.
If you observe too much wax in the inner ear, consult your veterinarian for a thorough cleaning. They can remove it and look for evidence of an ear infection in your dog, which can result in wax buildup.
Brush Your Pit Bull’s Teeth Once a Week
Pit Bull teeth develop plaque and tartar when not brushed. They are more vulnerable to dental diseases, tooth decay, and cavities. To maintain their beautiful teeth, you should take your dogs to a veterinarian for dental cleaning once a year. Here’s how to properly brush your pit bull’s teeth if you don’t know how:
- Get a toothbrush and toothpaste for dogs. Do not use toothpaste for humans. Various toothbrushes are available, including ones that fit on your finger, longer brushes with bristles that wrap around the tooth, and even electric toothbrushes. You may want to experiment with a few to discover the best that suits your dog.
- Gently brush your dog’s teeth. Apply enough pressure, not too much, to brush away most of the plaque. It doesn’t have to be flawless. It’s okay to clean even a few teeth at once.
Feeding your pit bull dental chews is a different, less effective way. Although it will aid in keeping their teeth clean, it won’t perform as well as a toothbrush. Dental chews can be a fantastic alternative if your Pit Bull won’t allow you to touch its mouth.
One Last Thing to Remember
Pit Bulls make wonderful pets because, contrary to popular belief, they are typically devoted and friendly animals. They do shed their coats; there is no avoiding that. However, Pit Bulls shed less than other dogs since they have a single coat. Good dog care ensures less of your pet’s coat gets on your clothes and the floor.
A Pit Bull’s shedding is quite simple to control if you maintain a regular brushing schedule, bathe your dog frequently, and feed them with a proper diet.
As you can see, there are several potential causes for your Pit Bull’s excessive shedding. We really need to emphasize this: if your dog is in pain, bleeding, has open sores that appear infected; or is otherwise acting in a way that appears “too much,” you should seek immediate medical attention from a veterinarian.