The German Shorthaired Pointer Shedding Guide

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a low-to-moderate shedder. Some people believe that shorthaired dogs don’t shed or shed less than long-haired dogs; However, this is simply not true. All dogs shed at least some hair during their lifetime. It’s often harder to notice shedding in shorter-haired dogs than in longer-haired dogs.

In an effort to avoid shedding, most owners pick dogs with thin, short hair to avoid constant hairballs. As well as being a hassle to clean up, shedding can also be harmful to your health if you suffer from allergy problems.

It’s good to know that German Shorthairs don’t shed a lot! There is only one caveat here, and that is that smaller hairs can be more difficult to remove from carpets and upholstery, especially when they are wet. Furthermore, the undercoat plays a significant role in determining how much and when he sheds hair. There is a likelihood that GSPs will ‘blow coat’ during seasonal changes (and hormonal fluctuations), which is common among double-coated breeds.

Is the German Shorthaired Pointer double-coated?

It is true that the German Shorthaired Pointer has a double coat. There are two layers of fur on a dog with a double coat. Since the first coat is composed of long, slightly finer hairs, it is easier for us to see. The second undercoat, however, is dense short hair that is hard to see, is water-resistant, and keeps the dog warmer during cold winter walks.

Double coats directly affect shedding. Although this particular breed of dog is considered to be a low-to-moderate shedder compared to other breeds, the cause of the shedding can be attributed to the double coat of this breed.

What’s the shed rate of German Shorthaired Pointers?

According to the American Kennel Club, German pointers are shed regularly. In other words, even when the pup is not shedding, you should still brush him weekly to prevent hair from getting everywhere. German shorthaired pointers require different amounts of brushing depending on a variety of factors, so you may need to brush more often than others. There are several very practical ways to reduce shedding; for example, diet, regular bathing, and brushing play a significant role in keeping the shedding at a minimum.

What Is the Most Common Shedding Period for German Shorthaired Pointers?

In spite of the fact that German pointers are regular shedders and will shed all year long, there are a few factors that play a very important role in just how much and when they shed. Although some of these are directly related to health issues that you should address, most are harmless and should not cause concern.

Time of Year

Animals have shedding seasons, which are basically exactly what they sound like. The shedding season refers to any time of the year when an animal sheds more than usual during that particular period. Spring and fall are the shedding seasons for German shorthaired pointers. 

Their coats would have to be thinner and shorter to keep them cool when the temperatures rise. To survive the low temperatures of winter, they need to shed this less useful coat and grow a dense, warm one. In order to prepare for the next season, the German shorthaired pointer will need to shed its coat between the two seasons.

Location and Climate

Climate can affect how much your pointer sheds. If you live in an area with warm weather throughout the year, your pointer will regularly shed to maintain a short, cool coat. GSPs shed year-round in warm climates; elsewhere, they shed seasonally. Regardless, their short hairs can get embedded everywhere.

Puppy Coat

When dogs get older, their hair type usually changes. There is a big difference between their puppy coats and their adult coats, but they don’t get that way overnight. As your German shorthaired pointer matures and grows, you will notice an increase in shedding.

In order to prevent my pointer from shedding, what can I do?

Regular brushing is one of the most effective ways to reduce Pointer shedding. As a result of brushing, dead fur can be removed, and you will be able to save yourself a great deal of time when it comes to vacuuming and cleaning your furniture and clothes. Additionally, it keeps their coats healthy. Considering that this breed does not shed a lot, you will only need to brush your German Shorthaired Pointer once a week or so with a stiff bristle brush or metal-toothed comb, since this breed does not shed a lot. By doing this, he will be able to maintain a healthy coat while also removing loose hair.

Is it possible to control a dog’s shedding?

It is impossible to prevent a dog from shedding; however, you can choose a dog that sheds less. It’s true that there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog, but some dogs cause fewer problems than others in terms of allergies. The hair is more like human hair; they don’t shed and produce less dander than other dogs.

How does bathing a dog help with shedding?

It is also possible to remove excess undercoat from your dog with the use of shampoo and conditioner. You can significantly reduce the amount of hair shed on your dog by regularly washing them and grooming them with brushes or de-shedding tools once they have dried off.

How can I stop my dog from shedding by feeding him certain foods?

You can decrease their shedding by supplementing your dog’s diet with olive or flaxseed oil. Omega-3 fatty acids are incredibly rich in these oils. They are great for soothing and nourishing inflamed skin.

Is brushing your dog good for shedding?

The best way to prevent hair from growing in your home is to brush regularly, even on a daily basis. Furthermore, brushing your dog’s coat will make it softer, cleaner, and less likely to shed. If you brush your dog frequently, you will remove more hair to prevent excessive shedding. In the fall and spring, brush your dog at least twice a week during the shedding season. Dogs with short, smooth coats (like beagles, boxers, and bulldogs) need to be brushed daily to reduce shedding. 

How effective is Deshedding shampoo?

Your dog’s coat will be restored to its natural state with shedding shampoos. Your dog’s skin won’t be irritated by the milder ingredients in these products. Most of these products also contain nutrients known to soothe the skin and coat of dogs with sensitive skin, making them a great choice.

Conclusion

The German Shorthaired Pointer breed doesn’t shed a lot of hair, and they’re easy to groom as well. The best way to maintain your dog’s coat and reduce shedding is to maintain a good diet and groom them regularly, which is a simple process. The GSP may be what you’re looking for if you’re looking for a fantastic, low-shedding, easy-to-groom pointing dog.