Hey there, picture this – a gigantic dog with expressive eyes, a proud stature and a regal demeanor. It’s the Great Dane we all know and adore. But there’s something else you need to know about this majestic breed. They are secret – and sometimes not so secret – shedders!
Yes, it’s a surprise to many people who first learn about it. Great Danes, known for their short smooth coats, are actually quite notable for shedding! Perhaps this is good news for you if you’re considering a new line of Great Dane fur clothing, but most Great Dane parents aren’t huge fans of the dog fur aesthetic.
Despite the image of a regal Great Dane lounging on a stately bed sans fur, the reality is they “blow their coat” twice a year, similar to many other dog breeds. But how much they shed isn’t the only intriguing part. It’s ‘when’ and ‘why’ they shed that makes the story even more fascinating. So if you’re going to share your life with a Great Dane, you might as well get comfortable with the inevitable tumbleweeds of fur.
Understanding the Shedding
Just when you thought you knew everything there is to know about Great Danes, right? Well, let’s delve a bit deeper into this shedding affair.
Great Danes typically shed the heaviest during the Spring and Fall. Why? Well, it’s all about acclimating to the changing seasons. When the temps start to rise, your Dane will shed their thicker winter coat making way for a lighter, cooler summer one. Similarly, as fall tiptoes in, your Dane will bid adieu to their summer coat to welcome a warmer one for winter.
Now, believe it or not, there is a science to this shedding. What causes it? The answer lies in their hormonal cycle which is influenced by the amount of daylight received each day. This is known as photoperiod. When days become longer and nights shorter (during spring and summer), it triggers a response in your dog’s body to let go of its heavy winter fur. Conversely, shortening daylight during fall and winter prompts a growth in the winter coat.
Managing the Hair-flurry
Taking this new knowledge in stride, you might be wondering, what are some ways to manage this Great Dane hairstorm?
Well, a consistent grooming regimen is going to be your first line of defense. Regular brushing is essential to not only manage their shedding but also distribute the natural oils in their skin evenly across their coat, keeping it healthy and shiny. Invest in a good quality grooming brush suitable for short-haired dogs.
From here, diet plays a significant role in the health of your Great Dane’s coat. Nutrient-rich, high-quality food helps reduce excessive shedding. Do not overlook the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids and biotin. They are known to promote healthier skin and shiny coats.
Moreover, keep your Dane hydrated. Dehydration can cause dry skin, leading to more shedding.
To Wrap it Up
As you look at your Great Dane, you may marvel at their commanding presence and elegance. After all, they are often compared to Greek gods and Danish warriors for their majestic looks. But behind that god-like presence is a simple beast battling the seasons, just like any other dog.
Shedding in Great Danes is like a yearly body clock ritual. They acquire new coats with changing seasons and discard the old ones. The ‘why’ of it is simple and scientific, whereas the ‘how much’ of it depends on various factors like diet, seasons, and health.
In the end, remember, a little bit of fur decorating your home is the small price you pay for the boundless love, loyalty, and joy these gentle giants bring your way. So, get onboard with the powerful vacuum cleaner and embrace the glorious shedding season!
