Finding pet hair on every inch of your home can be a nightmare. The first course of action should be to ensure your pup receives a balanced diet and is groomed routinely. If you still find too much fur on your furniture and clothes, consider shedding supplements for dogs.
Shedding control supplements for dogs are dietary additives formulated to control excessive shedding. Whether in tablet form, chewable treats, powder, or liquid, they are rich in ingredients that strengthen hair follicles.
Are you looking for the best supplements to stop dog shedding? We handpicked the top nine products on the market today. We aim to pack you with information to ensure you make an intelligent purchase.
A Quick Look at Our Favorites in 2023
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Shed-X Dermaplex Shed Control Nutritional |
Tasty and easy to use Contains marine-sourced fatty acids Reduces shedding in three to four weeks |
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Vet’s Best Shed+Itch Healthy Coat Chewable Tablets |
Provides effective itch relief Helps normalize shedding levels Ideal for adult and senior dogs |
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Zesty Paws Omega Bites Chicken Flavored Soft Chews |
Designed to target skin & coat problems Contain quality, grain-free ingredients Ideal for pups with sensitive tummies |
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Nulo Omega Coconut Flavored Soft Chews |
Soft and tasty chews Helps relieve seasonal allergies Free of GMOs & artificial preservatives |
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Nutri-Vet Shed Defense Seafood & Fish Flavored Soft Chews |
Formulated by veterinarians Appealing hickory smoke flavor Fast acting (just six weeks) |
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The 9 Best Dog Supplements For Shed Control
1. Shed-X Dermaplex Shed Control Nutritional Supplement — Best Overall
| Product Form: | Liquid |
| Life Stage: | Adults and seniors |
| Main Ingredients: | Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids, biotin, organic flaxseed oil |
Excessive seasonal and non-seasonal shedding can be a nuisance, especially if there is too much dog fur around your home. We chose the Shed-X Dermaplex Shed Control Nutritional Supplement as our best overall for its fast action. It manages shedding within three to four weeks and encourages healthy coat growth.
Ingredients in the formula include marine-sourced omega 3 & 6 fatty acids for optimal skin and coat health. This 100% natural supplement also contains organic flaxseed oil and wheat germ oil which moisturize the skin and alleviate itchiness and hot spots.
Shed-X Dermaplex Shed Control provides the perfect balance of fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins to boost the overall strength of your pup’s immune system. It is tasty, easy to use, and ideal for all canines over 12 weeks old.
2. Vet’s Best Shed+Itch Healthy Coat Chewable Tablets — Best Value
| Product Form: | Chewable tablet |
| Life Stage: | Adults and seniors |
| Main Ingredients: | MSM, omega fatty acids, quercetin, yellow dock root |
If you are looking for the best value in a dog shedding supplement, there are good reasons to consider the Vet’s Best Shed+Itch Healthy Coat Chewable Tablets. This NASC-approved product reduces shedding levels by providing effective itch relief from seasonal allergies. It also moisturizes the skin and helps your pup maintain a healthy coat.
These plant-based chewable tablets contain MSM, a potent anti-inflammatory, also known to improve arthritis symptoms in senior dogs. Other appealing ingredients include yellow dock root, omega-3 fatty acids, and quercetin, which work beautifully to keep the coats of adult dogs healthy and lustrous.
Vet’s Best Shed+Itch tablets seem pretty tasty, and most dogs don’t mind chewing them as treats. However, fussy eaters may not eat them unless crushed in their food.
3. Zesty Paws Omega Bites Chicken Flavored Soft Chews — Premium Choice
| Product Form: | Soft chew |
| Life Stage: | Adults and seniors |
| Main Ingredients: | Omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, vitamins C & E |
The Zesty Paws Omega Bites is a premium product uniquely developed by experts to address skin and coat concerns that cause excessive shedding. Each soft chew contains EPA and DHA marine-sourced omega-3 fatty acids that target dry skin and help your pup develop a smooth, shiny coat. Also, the bites are rich with ample amounts of vitamins C, E, and biotin, which are great for minimizing shedding.
Taste-wise, these delicious chews will not disappoint. They have an enticing chicken flavor that most dogs cannot resist. Because the chews are grain-free and don’t contain artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, they are perfect for canines with sensitive tummies.
The Zesty Paws Omega Bites tick all the right boxes and are a top-tier supplement. They are NASC-approved and contain quality ingredients that promote the overall health of dogs. However, this product attracts a premium price tag.
4. Nulo Omega Coconut Flavored Soft Chews — Best for Puppies
| Product Form: | Soft chew |
| Life Stage: | Adults, puppies, seniors |
| Main Ingredients: | Omega 3 & 9, coconut oil, vitamins C and E |
The Nulo Omega Coconut Flavored Soft Chews are ideal for dogs in all life stages. However, the supplement is especially suitable for puppies at least 12 weeks old. These highly palatable dietary bites contain coconut oil that helps with the proper development of the cognitive health of puppies.
Also, each bite contains a careful blend of fish oil, omega 3 & 9 fatty acids, vitamin E, and biotin to give your pups a healthy, shiny coat. The assortment of quality ingredients helps relieve seasonal allergies and moisturize the skin for more controlled shedding.
Furthermore, the Nulo Omega Coconut Flavored Soft Chews contain probiotics for enhanced gut health. They don’t contain GMOs, artificial preservatives, soy, corn, or wheat, meaning your furry friend is unlikely to get a stomach upset.
5. Nutri-Vet Shed Defense Seafood & Fish Flavored Soft Chews
| Product Form: | Soft chew |
| Life Stage: | Puppies, adults, and seniors |
| Main Ingredients: | Omega 3 & 6, vitamins E & C |
If you are on a tight budget and can’t stand your pup’s excessive shedding on your rugs, upholstery, and clothes, this is a product you must consider. The Nutri-Vet Shed Defense soft chews are affordable yet tasty and boast quality ingredients. They contain omega 3 & 6 sourced from salmon fish and have an appealing hickory-smoked flavor!
The Nutri-Vet Shed Defense soft chews are formulated by veterinarians. They contain just what your pup needs to maintain a normal shedding cycle. Your puppy, adult, or senior furry friend will have a notably healthier and silkier coat in just six weeks.
A minor concern is that this supplement contains plenty of plant-based ingredients. They work to reduce shedding but may not be ideal for dogs that have sensitive tummies.
6. The Missing Link Skin & Coat Powder Dog Supplement
| Product Form: | Powder |
| Life Stage: | Adults, seniors, puppies |
| Main Ingredients: | Omega 3 & 6 oils, biotin, probiotics |
The Missing Link Skin & Coat Powder Dog Supplement is an excellent formula for dogs with sensitive tummies. It contains natural whole foods, minerals, vitamins, beneficial bacteria, enzymes, probiotics, and dietary fiber. The careful assortment of ingredients helps dogs maintain healthy shedding patterns, boosts digestive health, and enhances their immune system.
This supplement is produced using a unique cold-process technology to ensure all ingredients maintain maximum nutritional value. The vacuum packaging also protects the powder’s potency to ensure your furry buddy develops healthier skin and a glossy coat after a few uses.
The Missing Link Skin & Coat Powder Dog Supplement is available in 1-pound or 5-pound bags. If your pet weighs below 10 pounds, it is better to go for the smaller package as you must use the product within 90 days after opening the bag to reduce the risk of wasting unused supplements.
7. PetHonesty Allergy Skin Health Salmon Flavored Soft Chews
| Product Form: | Soft chews |
| Life Stage: | Puppies, adults, and seniors |
| Main Ingredients: | Omega 3 & 6, probiotics, antioxidants |
The PetHonesty Allergy Skin Health Salmon Flavored Soft Chews stand out for their gentle formulation on pups with skin allergies and sensitive tummies. The chews contain 100% natural ingredients that help maintain healthy skin and coat. They are GMO-free and contain no chemicals, preservatives, or fillers. Each bite is designed to promote your pup’s overall immune system.
These soft chews have an enticing salmon flavor that will tickle the fancy of even picky eaters. Among the top ingredients that help address allergy-related skin issues like hot spots, dermatitis, and dry, itchy skin include probiotics, antioxidants, flaxseed, and vitamin E. The supplement also contains small fish oil, DHA gold, and Krill, which promote coat health and curb excessive shedding.
The PetHonesty Allergy Skin Health Salmon Flavored Soft Chews have gathered numerous great reviews from users. While they are made in the US with some locally sourced ingredients, some users raise an eyebrow over the unnamed “globally sourced ingredients.”
8. Zesty Paws Advanced Omega Bites Chicken Flavor Soft Chews
| Product Form: | Soft chews |
| Life Stage: | Seniors |
| Main Ingredients: | Fish oil, biotin, marine-sourced collagen |
Senior dogs shed more because they are prone to dry skin and weak and brittle hair. Concerns like allergies and vitamin deficiencies can also lead to excessive shedding. Advanced Omega Bites by Zesty Paws is a product designed to control shedding by supporting senior canines’ skin and coat health.
Each bite contains fish-sourced omega-3 fatty acids essential for moisturized and itch-free skin. Other commendable ingredients include zinc, biotin, and vitamins C and E, which help to maintain skin health. Also, the algae-derived DHA is a potent antioxidant that can keep your pup energized even in its senior years. These grain-free chews support immune system functions and enhance heart and joint health.
Zesty Paws Advanced Omega Bites have a tasty chicken flavor that even picky eaters love. The product also has a good assortment of natural ingredients. Among these ingredients is palm fruit oil which can cause diarrhea and vomiting in pups with sensitive tummies.
9. Mr. Groom Vita-Groom Balanced Nutritional Supplement
| Product Form: | Liquid |
| Life Stage: | Adults, seniors, puppies |
| Main Ingredients: | Biotin, zinc, vitamins A & E |
Do you have multiple types of pets? If you have a dog, a cat, and maybe even a parrot, here is a supplement to improve their skins and coat. The Mr. Groom Vita-Groom Balanced Nutritional Supplement can be administered to all animals without side effects. It is a unique formula designed to curb excessive shedding by targeting various skin conditions.
A dull coat, dry skin, and frequent itching and scratching are some leading causes of excessive shedding. The Mr. Groom Vita-Groom Balanced Nutritional Supplement has the right ingredients to soothe sensitive skin and support a healthy, glossy coat. Some of its top ingredients include Biotin, Zinc, and Wheat Germ extract.
One of the best-known active ingredients in curbing excessive shedding is omega-3. While this product works effectively, especially when addressing skin irritations, it doesn’t contain marine-sourced oils.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Dog Supplements For Shed Control
Shedding is normal for dogs unless you own a hairless breed. Even hypoallergenic canines like Afghan Hounds and Poodles shed some fur to keep their skins and hair healthy. The only difference is that they shed less and release fewer allergens that are generally harmless to allergy sufferers.
Dog breeds like Siberian Huskies are heavy shedders and shed all year round. On the other hand, some dog breeds only shed seasonally. They shed heavily towards the end of spring to lighten the winter coat in preparation for the hot summer. Excessive shedding in the fall is also common as canines get rid of their light coats to grow thicker ones, ideal for winter.
What Is Excessive Shedding?
Shedding helps remove damaged, old, unhealthy, or unwanted hair. However, it is essential to know what “normal” shedding is for your dog based on its breed, age, and the time of the year if it sheds seasonally.
If it’s not shedding season and your dog’s breed is not notorious for shedding heavily, shedding that doesn’t seem quite right can be classified as excessive shedding.
Excessive shedding generally leaves more hair than usual on the brush when grooming the pet. You may also notice more fur on your furniture, rugs, and clothes. If your pup also has some bald spots, you are likely dealing with hair loss and should consult your vet immediately.
What Causes Excessive Shedding?
Some of the common causes of excessive shedding in dogs include the following:
Older dogs shed more because their hair follicles are weaker and more brittle. However, sudden and dramatic excessive shedding that also tags along with physical symptoms like loss of appetite may indicate health problems. Common health issues like allergies, cancer, skin infections, and hormonal disorders are often to blame, and you should consult your vet.
Moreover, stressed dogs release more adrenaline which causes the release of more hair from the follicles. Some common causes of stress in canines include lack of exercise, trauma, sudden environmental changes, separation anxiety, or medical concerns. A stressed dog will show other symptoms like destructive mannerisms, pacing, and panting.
As unlikely as it may sound, poor nutrition is the number one cause of excessive shedding. Your pup needs a balanced diet to grow strong hair follicles and maintain smooth skin and a lustrous coat. Like skin allergies or a flea infection, dehydration makes the skin dry and itchy, increasing the odds of excessive shedding.
Regular grooming is necessary to manage shedding. It gives you more control over where your pup will lose its coat of dead, loose, or damaged hair follicles. Brushing your canine’s hair also activates the release and distribution of natural oils, leading to a healthier coat that is less prone to shedding.
The proper grooming schedule depends on your pup’s breed. If it is prone to excessive shedding, more frequent baths and brushing are necessary to ensure less hair ends up on your furniture. Make sure you use the right dog grooming tools and products, depending on the care needs of your dog’s coat.
How Do Dog Shedding Supplements Work?
Dog shedding supplements have a careful balance of ingredients that help improve the overall condition of the dog’s skin and coat. They address concerns like dry and irritated skin or weak and brittle hair follicles, which are notorious for causing excessive shedding.
Unfortunately, not even the best supplement will restrict shedding entirely. It will also not make your dog shed less hair than it would during its natural growth cycle.
Furthermore, dog shedding supplements may not work if your pup has underlying health concerns like allergies, flea infections, or stress. If necessary, first consult with your vet to rule out any medical causes of excessive shedding.
What Makes a Good Shedding Control Supplement for Dogs?
You must consider two main aspects when choosing a dog shedding supplement. First, you must ensure your pup consumes the supplement. Second, the ingested product must have the right active ingredients to help restrict excessive shedding.
Supplement Form
You can find dog-shedding supplements in soft chews, tablets, powders, or liquids. The ideal form to choose will depend on your canine’s personality. If it loves treats, consider buying tasty chewable supplements. For the fussy eater, selecting powders, liquids, or tablets you can crush and mix with the food is better.
Active Ingredients
Some dog shedding supplements work better than others, mainly because of the present active ingredients. For instance, products with marine-sourced Omega 3 are often effective because the essential fatty acid promotes moisture-rich skin and healthy hair follicles. It’s also one the body cannot produce naturally and introducing it to your pet ensures a healthy and balanced diet.
Some of the top ingredients to look for in a supplement worth buying include the following.
The right ingredients can make all the difference in your dog’s shedding. For instance, omega 3 & 6 strengthen the immune system to alleviate allergies and stimulate healthy hair growth. Biotin is great for keeping the coat and skin in top condition. Vitamins B and E have anti-inflammatory properties and help moisturize the skin to reduce itchiness.
FAQ
What Is the Right Dosage of Dog Shedding Supplements?
Dog-shedding supplements are available in different forms and concentration levels. It is crucial to follow the brand-specific feeding instructions or consult with your vet. Generally, the correct dosage depends on your pet’s weight. For example, while a 40-pound dog needs one teaspoon of The Missing Link Powder Dog Supplement, a 15-pound pup only requires half a teaspoon per serving.
Are Supplements to Stop Dog Shedding Safe?
Dog shedding supplements formulated with quality ingredients are safe for your pup. However, it is best to consult your vet before providing a supplement if your dog is on medication, has a sensitive tummy, or is allergic to certain ingredients. The products on our list come packaged with a complete list of ingredients.
How Long Does It Take for Dog Shedding Supplements to Work?
Some dog shedding supplements have fast-acting ingredients and will show visible results in about four weeks. However, most products need at least six weeks to deliver the best results. Adhering to the feeding instructions enhances the chances of enjoying a drastic drop in your dog’s shedding. Ensure your dog receives the right amount of supplement at the recommended frequency.
Conclusion
Shedding is inevitable unless you have a hairless canine. Finding some pet hair around your home is expected even if you routinely groom your pup and provide a balanced diet. If your dog is shedding excessively, we hope one of our recommended products significantly reduces the amount of fur you vacuum off your sofas.
One of the best supplements for a heavy shedder is the Shed-X Dermaplex Shed Control Nutritional Supplement. It is our best overall for containing fast-acting ingredients that address skin and coat problems in just four weeks. While our premium pick, the Zesty Paws Omega Bites, is somewhat pricier, it is a superior formula that can help make your pup’s shedding more manageable. If you are on a budget, we recommend Vet’s Best Shed+Itch Healthy Coat Chewable Tablets.
Don’t hesitate to consult a vet if your dog’s shedding, skin, or coat health is a cause for concern.
Featured Image Credit: Julia Zavalishina, Shutterstock
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