If you’ve ever noticed clouds of fur tumbling across your floor or clinging to your clothes during certain times of the year, chances are your dog is experiencing what's known as coat blowing. This natural shedding cycle—especially common in certain breeds—can be intense, but it's also temporary. With the right grooming approach, you can minimize the chaos and keep your home and dog tidy.

What Is Coat Blowing?

Coat blowing refers to the seasonal shedding of a dog’s undercoat, often occurring in double-coated breeds. These dogs have two layers of fur: a soft, dense undercoat and a coarse topcoat, or guard hairs. The undercoat acts as insulation, keeping the dog warm in winter and cooler in summer.

When temperatures change, typically in spring and fall, these breeds shed their undercoat to make room for a new one. The process is driven by hormonal shifts triggered by changes in daylight more than by temperature alone.

Unlike regular shedding, coat blowing involves large clumps of fur coming out at once—sometimes in tufts that seem to float through your house like tumbleweeds.

Why Do Only Some Dogs Blow Coat?

Not all dogs blow coat. The phenomenon is most noticeable in double-coated dogs, which includes many breeds originally bred for harsh climates. These dogs developed thick, layered coats for protection, and now shed those coats seasonally.

Single-coated dogs, such as Poodles or Bichon Frises, do shed, but much less and in a slower, ongoing fashion. Their hair is longer, grows continuously, and doesn't have the dense undercoat to shed.

Factors that influence coat blowing include:

  • Breed and genetics

  • Living conditions (indoor vs. outdoor)

  • Hormonal changes (like spaying/neutering)

  • Overall health and nutrition

Breeds Known for Blowing Coat

Some of the most common double-coated breeds that blow coat include:

  • Siberian Husky

  • Alaskan Malamute

  • German Shepherd

  • Golden Retriever

  • Labrador Retriever

  • Akita

  • Saint Bernard

  • Chow Chow

  • Shiba Inu

  • Australian Shepherd

  • Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgis

  • Great Pyrenees

Regardless of size, dogs with dense undercoats will typically blow coat at least once a year—some twice. The heaviest shedding usually occurs in spring, when the winter coat is no longer needed.

How Long Does Coat Blowing Last?

Most dogs will shed their undercoat over the course of 2 to 4 weeks. However, the exact timeline varies by breed, age, and environment. Indoor dogs may have less pronounced cycles due to artificial lighting and controlled temperatures, but they still shed.

How to Manage Shedding Season

You can't stop coat blowing, but you can manage it effectively with some simple strategies:

1. Brush Daily (or More)

Frequent brushing is the most important step in handling heavy shedding. Use tools designed for undercoat removal, such as:

  • Slicker brushes

  • Undercoat rakes

  • De-shedding tools (like the Furminator)

Brushing helps:

  • Remove loose fur before it ends up on furniture

  • Prevent mats and tangles

  • Stimulate healthy skin and hair growth

2. Bathe With Care

A bath during coat blowing season can help loosen and release dead fur. Use a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner to maintain skin and coat health. Follow the bath with a thorough brushing while the coat is damp.

Pro tip: Never over-bathe. Too many baths can dry out the skin and damage the coat.

3. Vacuum and Lint Roll Regularly

Expect to increase your cleaning routine. Vacuum daily if needed, especially in high-traffic areas or where your dog likes to sleep. Keep lint rollers handy for clothing, furniture, and even quick touch-ups on your dog’s coat.

4. Wash Bedding Frequently

Dog beds, blankets, and your dog’s favorite nap spots will gather fur quickly. Washing them weekly helps control the build-up and keeps your dog’s environment clean.

5. Maintain a Healthy Diet

A balanced diet supports strong, healthy fur. Nutritional deficiencies can make shedding worse or more frequent. Look for foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, or ask your vet about supplements if needed.

What Not to Do: Don't Shave!

Never shave a double-coated dog as a way to deal with shedding. These coats are designed to protect the dog from both heat and cold by regulating temperature and blocking harmful UV rays.

Shaving can:

  • Damage the coat’s texture permanently

  • Disrupt natural shedding cycles

  • Increase risk of sunburn and overheating

Instead, stick with brushing and bathing to manage seasonal changes.

When to Contact a Veterinarian

In most cases, coat blowing is normal. However, see your vet if:

  • Your dog sheds excessively out of season

  • There are bald patches

  • The skin looks red, flaky, or irritated

  • Your dog seems uncomfortable or is constantly licking or scratching

These could be signs of allergies, parasites, hormonal imbalances, or other medical issues.

Final Thoughts

While coat blowing can seem overwhelming at first—especially with fluff clinging to every corner—it’s a completely natural process for many dogs. With the right grooming tools and a consistent routine, you can stay on top of the shedding and help your dog transition comfortably between seasons.

Brushing, bathing, and a little patience will go a long way. And remember: every hair you brush out is one less you'll find on your couch.