Excessive Shedding

Question
Hi Penny,

  I have a 90 lb Florida Curr(to me looks like a lab) that does more then the usual shedding. Im not understanding why he isnt bald yet. He does scratch alot and does use his teeth to itch near the base of his tail. Dry skin? I sweep my tile floor first thing in the morning then when i come home from work it all looks like i never swept it. Im constantly overloaded with his hair. I end up sweeping up a dustpan full. Its  a fighting battle and im losing! Please any advice would be great! Thanks Carol

Answer
Hi Carol.  There is a product on the market called a FURminator you might want to purchase.  This product is a deshedding tool that removes the dead undercoat and drastically reduces shedding.

Your dog's scratching and biting, near the base of the tail, could be due to a hot spot.  A hot spot is a area where the skin is inflamed and could be infected.  Hair loss, in the infected area, is common, but sometimes - especially with long haired animals- the hair can mat over the area obscuring the size and degree of the problem.

There are several possible causes for Hot Spots, such as fleas, mites, insect bite, allergies, or injury (skin wound, scrape, etc.). Some animals have even been known to create a Hot Spot out of boredom or stress-related problems.

If you have access to clippers, you might want to clip the hair around the area that your dog has been scratching/biting to expose the skin underneath.  If you find the area to be inflamed, contain scabs, etc. your vet can prescribe an antibiotic ointment that will help to clear up the infection.  

Good luck, and please do hot hesitate to contact me if you have additional questions.  Sincerely, Penny D.