Have you ever looked down at your lap and realized you’re coated in furry remnants from your four-legged friend? You might think, “Does my dog just enjoy seeing me covered in hair?”
Well, if you’re a Field Spaniel owner, you might face this situation often as these dogs are both showering you with affection and shedding some hair. However, there are many factors to consider when discussing the Field Spaniel’s shedding habits!
Field Spaniel, an adorable medium-sized dog breed, is popular for its charming, docile nature and impressive intelligence. The silky black, liver, or roan coating adorning this sporting breed adds a grace to its overall appearance. But, this beautiful coat doesn’t come without its own hair-raising secrets! So, let’s explore those, shall we?
Before we delve into the shedding conversation, let’s offer a little pat on the back to the Field Spaniel as it’s not among the heaviest shedders in the canine world. However, saying they don’t shed at all would be akin to claiming dogs can fly. They do by all means, shed.
But fret not! Unlike some dogs who shed 365 days a year, Field Spaniels typically go through two main shedding periods annually: in the spring and fall. During these times, they will shed their undercoat to adjust to the changing weather. Think of it as their way of swapping out a winter wardrobe for summer clothes, and vice versa.
Since Field Spaniels, just like their Springer Spaniel cousins, were designed for field work, their double coats provide them with protection. The denser undercoat insulates them from cold water, while the smoother outer coat protects against weather and brambles. However, the price we pay for these furry wardrobes is an increase in fallen strands during the shedding seasons.
While the shedding isn’t necessarily heavy, it is consistent since the Field Spaniel’s hair grows continuously. Therefore, regular grooming is crucial. Weekly brushing helps to remove loose hair and prevent mats or tangles in their silky coat. You might find more hair on the brush than on your lap!
Additionally, grooming sessions can be bonding time for you and your furkid. Brushing not only soothes them, but also promotes healthier skin and a shinier coat. Your Field Spaniel will surely thank you with exuberant tail wags and affectionate nuzzles.
Now, you might wonder: Are there any ways to effectively reduce the shedding? Indeed, there are! Regular bathing can encourage loose hair to fall out in the bath rather than around the house. It’s a gentler way to ‘help’ the shedding process. However, it’s crucial not to overdo it. Too frequent baths can strip away your dog’s natural oils and lead to dry, itchy skin.
A healthy diet can also impact shedding. High-quality dog food with the right balance of nutrients can support a healthier coat and potentially reduce shedding. Foods rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids can especially improve their coat’s health. Some owners also swear by adding a little olive oil to their Field Spaniel’s food for that extra sparkle on their coats!
However, excessive shedding can sometimes be a sign of health issues. It could be due to stress, allergies, skin problems, or even specific diseases. If you notice unusually excessive shedding, bald patches, redness, or inflammation on your dog’s skin, consult your vet immediately.
Remember that shedding, although not always enjoyable, is a normal part of life with a Field Spaniel or any dog breed. Better to laugh it off and consider it a ‘furry’ token of love from your companion, rather than a nuisance!
Go ahead, embrace the fluff! With the right grooming practices and patience, the love and joy these pals bring far outweigh a little (or a lot of) extra hair around the house. The quality time, the improved bond, and the pet health benefits can turn what first appeared a chore into a treasure. Shedding is just a small downside to the otherwise wonderful experience of owning a Field Spaniel. Plus, who needs fur coats when your adorable furkid can give you a natural one themselves?
So, if you’re pondering whether or not a Field Spaniel is the right dog for you – or if you’re a Field Spaniel parent concerned about how much you’re vacuuming up – hopefully, this article has shed some light (and fur) on your situation.
Shedding might cause you to raise an eyebrow at first, but it should certainly not deter you from welcoming this loving breed into your home. After all, at the end of each hairy day, it just means more of your Field Spaniel to love… and occasionally wear!
