excessive shedding

Question
I have a 10 month old fawn female pug.  She seems to be shedding more than normal right now.  When I hold her, play with her, pet her or brush her I have noticed a large about of hair coming out.  I live in the mountains where there is snow and I would think she would not shed in the middle of winter.  Is this normal?  Do Pugs go through shedding cycles?  Is there something I can do to lower the amount of hair coming out?  Thank you!!

Answer
Hi Kimberly-

Pugs are year round shedders that constantly shed their guardhairs when they die out. So there isn't much of a "blowing" of coats with pugs. I would recommend if you notice an unusual amount of shedding to contact your vet for an examination. Its possible that she is undergoing internal stress that is making her loose her coat, or she may have a skin condition. A vet would help make the proper diagnosis.

Good luck!