Toss aside the lint rollers and doggy hair-shampoos, because when it comes to the Entlebucher Mountain Dog, the shedding scenario is quite different from what you might be imagining. Contrary to what some may think, this dynamic canine turns the typical dog-hair dilemma on its tail – in a delightful way!
Let’s start by talking about the Entlebucher Mountain Dog, the smallest of the four Swiss Mountain Dogs, which is robust and agile by disposition. Boasting a characteristically tri-colored, densely-set, short and glossy coat, these dogs are as stunning as they come. But here’s the interesting bit that you might not know – this beautiful coat is more than just a sight for sore eyes. It holds the key to understanding the shedding habits, or rather, the lack thereof, in Entlebucher Mountain Dogs.
Typically, most dogs have two layers to their coats. The outer layer is the ‘guard hair,’ which is thick and serves to protect them from the weather and environment. On the inside, they have an ‘undercoat,’ which is a softer, fluffier layer that keeps them warm. It’s this undercoat that sheds seasonally in most breeds, causing dog owners to run around with vacuum cleaners and hair brushes to maintain a hair-free home.
But with Entlebucher Mountain Dogs, they don’t have an undercoat. Yes, you read that right! These dogs are ‘single-coated.’ They possess just the guard hairs that keep them safe from environmental elements, resulting in substantially less shedding compared to their ‘double-coated’ counterparts. What a relief for your carpets and sofas, right?
However, it is important to note that ‘less shedding’ doesn’t imply ‘no shedding.’ Like all animals with hair, Entlebuchers will lose some hair throughout the year. This is a natural process where older hair is shed to make way for new growth. But the shedding is minimal, making the upkeep of your Entlebucher relatively easy and much less hair-raising. You’ll find the occasional dog hair here and there, but it’s nothing drastic, and certainly wouldn’t warrant a full-time commitment to de-hairing your house!
There may be more noticeable shedding once or twice a year, known as ‘blowing out the coat.’ This is when the dog loses a larger than normal amount of hair over a short period, usually a week or two.
So, how do we manage the shedding of the Entlebucher Mountain Dog and ensure they always have a healthy, vibrant coat? Here’s where some simple grooming practices come to play.
Daily or otherwise frequent brushing can help keep the shedding in control, as it removes dead hair before it can fall out naturally. It also helps distribute the dog’s natural oils, promoting a healthy and shiny coat. And trust us, your fur buddy will love the added attention and the brush’s feel on their skin!
Using a secondary device like a ‘de-shedding tool’ or ‘grooming mitt’ during the ‘blowing out the coat’ season can help immensely. These tools are designed to get deeper into your dog’s coat and remove loose hair easily.
Healthy diet and nutrition also contribute to the overall health of your dog’s coat. Feeding your Entlebucher Mountain Dog a balanced doggy diet rich in essential fatty acids will keep their coat healthy and reduce excessive shedding.
And finally, regular vet checkups can ensure that there are no underlying medical issues contributing to increased hair loss. Note that while Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are generally healthier and less prone to certain genetic conditions than their larger Swiss Mountain Dog relatives, they’re not immune to health problems entirely. So, regular veterinary attention is advisable.
In conclusion, if you’re looking to share your life and space with a canine companion that doesn’t turn your home into a flurry of dog hair, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog could be your ideal buddy. Their minimal shedding coupled with a dynamic personality and striking appearance make them a tremendous pet and a colourful addition to any family.
Remember, their unique coating requires not just less cleaning effort, but also establishes a different engagement with these dogs via regular brushing and grooming sessions. It’s a way to bond, to assure them, and to keep them in good health. So, with an Entlebucher Mountain Dog, you’ll be stepping into a lifestyle that’s as nurturing as it is neat.
Who said having a dog had to be messy, right?
