Imagine cuddling up with a furry giant who’s big, powerful yet incredibly gentle. Sounds wonderful, right? However, there’s this tiny detail about these gentle giants that might just turn your clean home into a hairy furball mayhem. I am talking about the majestic Mastiff and its hair shedding tendencies.
Just like the exciting twist in a thriller novel, owning a Mastiff has its unexpected surprise. Yes, these colossal dogs shed, and they shed quite a lot. Now I see your brows furrowing with reservation; keep reading, though, because underneath this furry challenge lies an extraordinary bond with one of these amazing dogs that jut might be worth a bit of fur here and there.
Mastiffs, the aristocrats of the dog world, are known for their imposing size and noble nature. However, their royal demeanor comes with an unconcealed secret. Are you ready for it? Mastiffs shed their fur all year round! But wait, it gets even more interesting: twice a year these gentle giants go through what is called seasonal shedding, where hair loss intensifies significantly. This phenomenon, also known as “blowing the coat”, generally occurs during spring and autumn.
For new Mastiff owners, this sudden onslaught of fur can be a real jaw-dropper, prompting questions like “Will my Mastiff go bald?” The answer, thankfully, is no. This process is your Mastiff’s clever way of adjusting to seasonal changes.
However, the question still lingers on- what contributes to a Mastiff shedding so much?
To understand this furry phenomenon better, we should first delve into the Mastiff’s dual coat system. This potent combination includes a dense undercoat that provides insulation during the colder months, and a straight, coarse topcoat that acts as a protective layer against environmental elements. When their undercoat dramatically sheds twice a year, things can indeed get a bit hairy around your house!
Mastiffs, generally, are quite healthy. However, certain health issues can contribute to excessive shedding. Allergies top the list, followed closely by hormonal imbalances, poor diet, stress, or even parasites. Regular veterinary check-ups, therefore, are also crucial in keeping your Mastiff’s coat in a healthy state.
Now that we’ve unmasked the Mastiff’s shedding secret, let’s get down to brass tacks: how to manage this hairy situation? Is it just living with fur on your clothes, furniture, and maybe even in your food or are there practical ways to keep the shedding under control?
Just as a writer uses fine strokes to craft a novel, it’s important to implement consistent, effective strategies to control your Mastiff’s shedding process.
Firstly, brushing your giant furball regularly is crucial. Not only does it keep their coat looking stunning, but it also massages their skin, promotes oil distribution and catches loose hair even before it has a chance to decorate your sofa.
Secondly, grooming is another great way to keep shedding under control while giving your Mastiff that ‘show-dog’ look. Getting your Mastiff professionally groomed every now and then can work wonders with shedding control.
Thirdly, a healthy diet plays a vital role in keeping your Mastiff’s fur fall in check. Just as good nutrition gives us humans a healthy head of hair, a diet rich in healthy fats and proteins will provide your Mastiff with a shiny coat and lessen the shedding process.
Lastly, ensure that your Mastiff is well hydrated. Drinking a lot of water helps to keep their skin healthy and hydrated, reducing hair shedding dramatically.
Despite all this, if you’re still finding “Fur-nados” sweeping through your house, just remember – Roomba or a good vacuum cleaner can be your best friend.
Welcoming a Mastiff into your home may indeed add a bit more housework to your routine. But when this incredible animal looks at you with those big droopy eyes full of love, all you will see is a loyal friend who’s worth every single hair they shed.
Remember, owning a dog – especially a Mastiff – requires patience, understanding, and unconditional love. But the rewards of this companionship: priceless. Amidst all the shedding, you could just find the best friend you never knew you needed.
So, if you’re considering becoming a Mastiff parent, don’t let the beautiful fur that they do indeed shed deter you. Embrace every part of their nobility, including their coat “blowing” tendencies. After all, having a Mastiff in your life is a lot like reading a good book- despite knowing that it’ll eventually end, you still choose to experience every single page. Similarly, despite knowing the level of shedding to expect from a Mastiff, you should still allow yourself to experience unconditional love and companionship these furry giants are famous for.
