golden retriever shedding

Question
We adopted Jake who is 5 years old from Golden Retriever Freedom Rescue 2 ior 3 months ago.  For the past month he has been shedding, and shedding, and shedding.  He has been tested for thyroid - negative.  He has lost a little weight (8 lbs).  Today I brushed and curry-combed him for almost an hour.  I filled two plastic supermarket bags with hair and underhair, and still the hair keeps coming.  The house is covered in hair.  Is this normal, and when will it stop.  We live in Boulder CO which has dry air and temps in upper 80's and 90's during summer.
Any advice?
Thanks
Caroline

Answer
That does sound excessive.  A more efficient brush may help.  I used a wire slicker brush for years, but recently switch to a different style, not sure what it is called.  It has many fewer wires than a slicker brush.  They are free to pivot and each one has a little ball on the tip.  I think it is a little less efficient than the wire slicker brush, but more comfortable for the dog.  

I would keep in touch with the vet and keep brushing and brushing and brushing.  Dogs do a major shed in the spring and fall.  It may diminish before long.  You may also want to check with another vet.  

I wouldn't put much stock in the claims of the premium dog foods to reduce sheding.