The Best Supplements for Dog Shedding, Buyers Guide, Review and Comparison
While dog shedding is a completely natural process and one you have to live with when you own an adorable fluffy canine companion, what do you do when the hair loss gets too much? The best supplements for dog shedding won’t completely stop this process, but they can significantly reduce and manage the level of fur or hair floating around your home. They can also be great for your pup’s coat and skin health!
Best Supplements for Dog Shedding Top Pick
Made entirely with natural ingredients and scientifically formulated, this potent anti-shedding supplement is effective for both seasonal blowouts and everyday excessive shedding. An optimum ratio of omega 3 and 6 and other minerals and vitamins work to enhance the nourishment of your pup’s coat and skin while cutting down on all that loose fur.
Mix of animal and plant-based oils.
Easy to administer in liquid form.
Designed to be effective in under 6 weeks.
Product Rating:4.8/5
Best Supplements for Dog Shedding Reviews
| PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|
 Shed-X Liquid Dog Supplement | Form: Liquid Count/Quantity: 32 ounces Flavor: Chicken Main ingredients: Fish Oils/ Soybean oil/ Organic flaxseed oil/ Biotin /Vitamins A & D
| Product Rating: 4.8/5 Check Price at AmazonFast Dogs Review |
 Nutri-Vet Shed Defense Soft Chews | Form: Soft Chews Count/Quantity: 60 Flavor: Natural Hickory Smoke Main ingredients: Natural salmon oil/ Omega 3 & 6/ Zinc/ Vitamin B Complex
| Product Rating: 4.7/5 Check Price at AmazonFast Dogs Review |
 VetIQ Skin & Coat Supplement | Form: Soft Chews Count/Quantity: 90 Flavor: Hickory Smoke Main ingredients: Flaxseed oil/ Olive oil/ Biotin/ Vitamins E & A/ Zinc/ Potassium
| Product Rating: 4.7/5 Check Price at AmazonFast Dogs Review |
 The Missing Link Skin & Coat Powder for Dogs | Form: Powder Count/Quantity: Pound Flavor: Beef Main ingredients: Flaxseed for Omega 3 & 6/ LactoSpore Probiotics/ Biotin/ Vitamin E
| Product rating: 4.7/5 Check Price at AmazonFast Dogs Review |
 GNC Pets Omega Skin & Coat Dog Supplements | Form: Soft chews Count/Quantity: 120 Flavor: Chicken Main ingredients: Flaxseed/ Salmon oil/ Brewers yeast/ Vitamin E
| Product Rating: 4.6/5 Check Price at AmazonFast Dogs Review |
The Best Supplements for Dog Shedding Buying Guide
The best supplements for dog shedding are designed to help those who don’t want to spend one more minute chasing dog hairs from every corner of their home. Although shedding is natural, excessive hair loss not only creates a mess, but it can also play havoc with allergies, and lead to discomfort. Beyond grooming and diet, supplements play a vital role in reducing shedding.
Why Do Dogs Shed?
Before delving into the world of supplements to stop dog shedding, it's essential to understand the shedding process itself. The fur/hair coat of a dog has two important jobs to perform; to control your pooch’s core temperature and protect their skin from the sun and other environmental factors. When the hair stops growing or becomes damaged, it will naturally shed.
Various elements influence shedding rate, including:
Genetics.
Age.
Hormonal changes.
Overall health.
Breed.
For example, double-coated breeds, such as the wolf-like Husky will shed their undercoat as the seasons change. This is often referred to as a blowout, so as you can imagine, at this time excess shedding is to be expected.
Other breeds, like short-haired or smooth-coated dogs, have a short hair growth cycle, which also leads to more frequent fur loss. Yet, there are low-shedding dogs that are considered hypoallergenic, such as the Poodle.
And, while you can’t prevent shedding completely, there are ways you can minimize its impact.
When Does Excessive Shedding Become a Problem?
As we’ve seen, some dog breeds are heavy shedders, and there’s no way of avoiding it. However, if your dog is showing unusual signs of hair loss, it could be down to:
Parasites.
Bacterial or fungal infections.
Food allergy.
Kidney disease.
Anxiety/stress.
Cancer.
It’s always advisable to seek advice from a vet if you believe your dog’s shedding is out of the norm, or you find bald spots.
In other cases, excessive shedding could come down to nutritional deficiencies. A dog’s diet should be balanced — rich in vitamins and minerals, which promote their overall health including their skin and coat. If their diet is lacking in these essential nutrients, there are dog vitamins for shedding and other supplements to stop dog shedding.
Do Dog Shedding Supplements Work?
Dog shedding supplements can be very effective in reducing the excessive shedding of your furry companion — as long as they contain the right balance of quality ingredients.
The best dog supplement for shedding won’t reduce the amount of hair a healthy pup sheds as part of the natural shedding process. That said, optimal nutrition can improve the condition of your dog's skin and coat. In turn, the supplement can reduce the excessive shedding caused by issues like dry, irritated, or damaged skin and hair.
Best Supplements for Dogs Shedding — Essential Ingredients
The best product to stop dog shedding will be a supplement containing any or all of the following:
Omega-3
Omega-3s are well-known for their numerous health benefits, including promoting a healthy coat condition. These fatty acids can reduce inflammation — helping to alleviate excessive shedding and skin irritation. Omega-3s also help maintain the skin's moisture balance, preventing dryness that can lead to increased shedding.
Omega-6
Similarly, omega-6 fatty acids contribute to skin and coat health. They play a role in maintaining the skin's natural barrier, preventing moisture loss, and reducing itching and irritation. However, it's crucial to maintain a proper balance between omega-3 and 6, as an imbalance can lead to skin issues and increased shedding.
Biotin
Biotin, a B-complex vitamin, is essential for maintaining healthy skin and promoting hair growth. It helps metabolize fatty acids, which are crucial for a lustrous coat. Biotin deficiencies can lead to dry, flaky skin and increased shedding. Brewer’s yeast, a dietary supplement rich in B vitamins and antioxidants, is often found in dog shedding supplements.
Zinc
A trace mineral, zinc plays a prime role in skin health and overall immune function. Recent studies have demonstrated that when used as a supplement for dogs, zinc can enhance coat condition and improve immunity.
Zinc is involved in the production of new skin cells and the maintenance of hair follicles. And, a deficiency in this mineral can lead to a dull coat, skin inflammation, and increased shedding.
Vitamin E
We all know the importance of vitamin E to our human skin, and it has many of the same benefits for canines. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports a healthy immune system. It also promotes skin health by reducing inflammation and maintaining skin moisture.
More vitamin E in your dog's diet can contribute to a healthier coat and reduced shedding.
Vitamin A
Another vitamin that’s essential for hair growth is the antioxidant-containing vitamin A. It also helps the glands in your pooch’s skin produce sebum, a natural oil that keeps both the hair and skin of a dog moisturized.
Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support gut health and the immune system. A healthy gut contributes to improved nutrient absorption, affecting the quality of your dog's coat. When your dog's body can effectively absorb nutrients, it's better equipped to maintain good coat condition and keep shedding to a minimum.
Ingredients to Avoid
You should try to steer clear of anything containing:
Filler ingredients — for example, grains, which may upset your dog’s digestive system.
Common allergens — for example, dairy, eggs, soy, and wheat.
Added chemicals and synthetics.
Artificial additives, colorings, or preservatives.
The Top 5 Supplements for Shedding Dogs
With so many different brands and formulas out there, it can often be confusing to decide which is the best product to stop dog shedding effectively for your pup. From liquids and soft chews to dried wholefood powder supplements, we’ve picked our favorites from all forms.
Our Top Pick
An all-natural supplement in liquid form, Shed-X Dermaplex claims to curb excessive shedding, boasting visible results within three to 6 weeks of use.
With omegas (3 and 6) coming from flaxseed and wheat germ oils, plus Norwegian sardines and anchovies, it offers both plant and marine-based fatty acids — and a more balanced source of this nutrient.
Furthermore, Shed-X contains biotin and vitamins E, A, and D for an all-around coat care complex. And, fortified with zinc, it’s designed to strengthen your dog’s immune system — another helper for hair loss.
The Shed X liquid can be used all year round for daily excess shedding or even in the blowout season of double-coated doggies.
The brand suggests doubling the daily dosage for the first month for the best results. And, how much you give will depend on the size of your dog — from 1-2 teaspoons for dogs under 10 pounds up to one tablespoon for every 20 pounds.
As it's in liquid form and tastes of chicken, you can pour it over or mix it into their regular wet or dry food — simple — and saving you a lot of hassle.
Product Rating: 4.8/5
PROS:
- Natural ingredients.
- Can be used for seasonal and daily shedding.
- Easy-to-feed liquid form.
- Quick results, designed to reduce shedding in as fast as 3 weeks.
CONS:
- Not suitable for puppies 12 weeks and under.
- Dogs with sensitive tummies may not take to the oily formula.
Best Value
Nutri-Vet Shed Defense Soft Chews present a good value choice for pet guardians seeking to enhance their dog's coat health and manage shedding.
These chews contain omegas 3 and 6 derived from salmon and flaxseed — offering healthy skin and coat benefits. Furthermore, individual hair strength is fortified, reducing the likelihood of breakage or shedding.
Administering the chews is hassle-free — you can either offer them as a treat or add to their wet or dry food. And, as its flavor is hickory smoked, it's sure to be a delight for dogs. Shed Defense is also considered safe for dogs of all ages, including puppies — just be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the packet.
Nutri-vet suggests improvements should be noticeable within a four to 6-week timeframe. You can use these as a one-off treatment or for ongoing management of your dog’s shedding, especially during seasonal shedding.
Product Rating: 4.8/5
PROS:
- Enriched with brewer’s yeast — great source of B vitamins.
- Smokey taste — appeals to canines.
- Suitable for all ages.
- Affordable price.
CONS:
- Contains palm oil.
Best for Heart Health Support
VetIQ Skin & Coat Supplements for Dogs are formulated to alleviate everyday shedding, improve skin softness, and encourage a glossy coat. This is thanks to the inclusion of omegas 3, 6, and 9 from plant-based ingredients — safflower, olive, and flaxseed oil.
What’s more, omega-9 is known for diminishing levels of 'bad cholesterol' (LDL) in the bloodstream and simultaneously elevating 'good cholesterol' (HDL), which supports your canine’s overall heart health.
Being a soft hickory-flavored chew again, these supplements should be straightforward to administer to dogs. Suitable for pooches weighing 5 pounds upwards, dosage levels start from one chew on alternate days up to five per day for extra large breeds.
However, once the pack is opened, be sure to store them in an airtight container — they can dry out very quickly. There’s no fun for your pooch in a soft chew that isn’t soft!
Product Rating: 4.7/5
PROS:
- Helps heart health.
- Contains biotin, vitamins A and E.
- Added omega-9 can benefit cholesterol levels.
- Tasty hickory soft chews
- Kind on your pocket.
CONS:
- Whole chews may be too big for smaller dogs.
Best Powder Supplement
The Missing Link Original Skin & Coat is a dog shedding supplement in powder form that’s 100 percent natural with zero fillers, artificial colorings or flavorings, and non-GMO.
The all-important shed-reducing ingredients of balanced omegas 3, 6, and 9 from milled flaxseed, and biotin and vitamin E are present. Plus, a probiotic (bacillus coagulans) encourages better absorption of nutrients — so your pooch gets the most out of the supplement.
Using cold-process manufacturing techniques to ensure optimal nutritional potency, Missing Link’s powder supplement is also treated with nitrogen and vacuum-sealed for freshness. Hence, all the valuable nutrients are preserved in their ‘just made’ state.
Suited for both puppies and adult dogs post-weaning — serving the supplement isn’t difficult. You can either mix in, sprinkle on, or by adding a tiny bit of water, you can make a gravy-like pour-over for raw/dry/wet food diets.
Additionally, as it's packaged in bags featuring a zip closure, it guards against powder spillage — providing added convenience.
PRODUCT RATING: 4.6/5
PROS:
- Added probiotics encourage absorption.
- Canine palatable beefy taste.
- Boosts energy as well as coat and fur.
- Natural ingredients — kinder on your dog's stomach.
CONS:
- Once opened must be used within 90 days.
Best Bulk Buy
Bacon flavored, this chew from GNC contains omegas 3, 6, and 9 sourced from flaxseed and salmon oil, plus a boost of vitamin E — all the essentials your pooch needs to keep their skin and coat in top condition. Plus, it’s easy to chew and swallow, so it’s a great alternative if your pup hates taking meds.
GNC’s Omega Skin and Coat formula also includes brewer’s yeast — an important source of essential minerals — like zinc and potassium, and those B vitamins.
With 120 chews in each container, even for larger dogs who require three chews per day, this supplement will last for 40 days, longer than most of the supplements we have looked at. Ideal for those owners who like to bulk buy their pet supplies.
What’s more, these chews are chicken flavored, which should get you the paws up and tail wagging from your pooch.
Product Rating: 4.6/5
PROS:
- Generous 120-count container.
- Include brewer’s yeast — mineral rich.
- Chicken flavor.
- Soft, easy-to-chew cubes.
CONS:
- Not suitable for younger dogs (under 6 months).
Conclusion
Managing dog shedding requires a holistic approach that includes proper grooming, a balanced diet, and, when necessary, supplements.
However, it's important to remember that even the best supplements for dog shedding should always complement a well-rounded care regimen. And, with the right care and attention, you can help your furry companion maintain a shiny, healthy coat while minimizing the inconvenience of excessive shedding.Dog Shedding Supplements FAQs
Do Anti-Shedding Supplements Work for Dogs?
In cases of hair loss or shedding, supplements can potentially assist by supplying essential nutrients. However, it's important to address the root cause before considering nutritional supplementation to enhance coat health and shine.
How Long Do Dog Shedding Supplements Take to Work?
Results vary depending on the brand of supplement you choose, the active ingredients, and other factors such as the individual dog. That said, the average trend is around the four to 6-week mark.
Do I Need to See a Vet Before Giving My Dog Vitamins for Shedding?
Although it’s not mandatory — remember most of the supplements use only natural ingredients —, it’s advisable to check with your veterinarian before making any changes to your beloved pet’s diet.
Excessive shedding can be symptomatic of an underlying health condition. Hence, it’s best to rule out any possible medical conditions first.
Are There Any Dogs That Don’t Shed?
All dogs shed hair or fur. Well, apart from hairless breeds. Shedding is a natural process, although those dogs considered hypoallergenic will shed less often. For example, the Poodle, Afghan Hound, Bedlington Terrier, and even the cotton fluff ball, that is the Bichon Frise.
Which Dogs Shed The Most?
Dogs that shed the most typically have a thick double coat or a high hair density. They tend to shed year-round, with heavier shedding occurring during shedding seasons. These include:
Labrador Retriever.
German Shepherd.
Alaskan Malamute.
Siberian Husky.
Akita.
Chow Chow.
Newfoundland.
How Can I Stop My Dog Shedding So Much?
If you’ve ruled out a health issue, you can help manage shedding by:
Regular brushing/combing.
Offering a well-balanced diet.
Keeping flea/tick treatments up-to-date.
Supplements for shedding.
Using deshedding tools (during seasonal shedding).
Bathing your dog — but not too often.