The Pitbull or American Pitbull Terrier is an affectionate companion dog popular in the USA.
Do Pitbulls shed? Pitbulls do shed on average throughout the year. The shedding increases a couple of times in the year as seasons change. For example, shedding increases as summer approaches. This is a voluntary response to keep him cool.
They are part of the bully dog breeds who have been popular in dog fight games. Due to this, many believe Pitbull to be quite aggressive in nature. Though this is far from true and in fact, many Pitbull owners say they are quite playful and lovable companion dogs.
Having a medium-size muscular body with a high prey drive, they do need to be trained and socialized well from the beginning so that they grow to be a well-rounded dog.
Throughout the year, you can observe a moderate amount of shedding. They shed relatively more than other dogs having a single coat.
But there is good news. Pitbull Terrier wears a short-haired coat that is not prone to mats or tangles that many long-hair dog breeds are known for. This makes them quite easy to groom.
Is Pitbull hypoallergenic?
No, while they have a single coat and don’t shed as heavily as say, German Shepherd, they are not hypoallergenic. They wear dog fur and sheds more dander than you would expect from a single short coat dog.
Pitbull sits in the middle of the table of dogs closest to hypoallergenic nature. There are several reasons for this status.
Pitbull coat is fur and not hairs which typically grow longer. Shedding fur creates more dander (accumulation of dead hair follicles) and he also drools. This dander and saliva are known to contain substances that are not recognized by the human body.
When these foreign substances come in contact with the human body, an immune response is mounted. This response can manifest itself as typical allergy symptoms. Rashes, difficulty in breathing, or a running nose are the common signs.
Pitbull Coat characteristics and colors
Pitbull has a single-layered coat which is short and shiny and feels rough when touched. With their short single coat, they do not tolerate cold or change in weather well.
Often you will see Pitbull in colors like red, blue, brown, grey, black and white, and brindle. They may also have markings on their coat such as spots, streaks, and patches, brindle markings.
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Factors that can accelerate shedding
Some factors will make your Pittie shed more, faster! Correcting these conditions, if possible, can help them regain their attractive coats.
Season
All dogs including the Pitbull shed moderately all year long to remove damaged and old hairs. But as seasons like spring and fall approaches, the shedding increases to a point where it is visible.
Stress
Feeling stressed, afraid, uncertain, or sad can affect your beloved Pitbull’s coat. Change of home, routine, or separation anxiety can also cause such feelings.
This results in loss of hair, usually in clumps to an extent where he looks bare!
Food
The quality of dog food may greatly impact the Pitbull coat. Having low-quality food may reduce the natural shine and his coat may appear dull and weak. A balanced diet will lead to a strong glossy hair coat that protects your dog.
Another point you should consider is if your pittie is allergic to any food item as this may also result in excessive shedding or other illness.
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Medications
Medications prescribed to a Pitbull with illness can also cause shedding. Sometimes a high dosage or strong dosage can make hair loss even worse.
Hygiene products
Shampoos are another culprit to blame for shedding. Using a shampoo that is not formulated for dogs or dog shampoos that contain harmful chemicals have the same effect. We would recommend using natural oatmeal based shampoos.
Natural shampoos use organic components that do not negatively affect the skin or hair of your Pitbull.
Disease
Pitbulls are vulnerable to many diseases and shedding is just an early sign of their suffering. Paying attention to this unexpected shedding can help diagnose an illness before it is too late. If your dog starts to shed a lot without any reason, consult a vet.
Skin conditions
Skin diseases can affect the hair follicle and make hair fall out. This could be due to Alopecia, a genetic condition that affects the dog’s ability to grow hair. There is no treatment for such conditions.
Also, constant biting from ticks and fleas can inhibit hair growth. Bathing with a tick-killing spray or shampoo can reduce these pests. Constant tick infestations can lead to severe anemia.
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How to manage Pitbull shedding?
Let us look at some tips that can help you to manage the shedding.
Brushing
The most logical way to tackle shedding is to brush and brush again. Pitbull only needs to be brushed 2 to 3 times a week normally. During spring and fall, you can increase the frequency to daily.
Pitties are not double-coated dogs, so brushing will be quick. Be careful not to use hard bristle brushes that may harm your dog.
Use bristled brush
A soft to medium bristled brush should be used to groom your dog throughout the year. Grooming in the same direction as hair growth will assist in removing any dirt or items stuck in the hair
De-shedding brush
During seasonal shedding months, the de-shedding brush is most effective in removing both damaged hair and old hair.
Bathing
Pitbull do not need bathing often. Once in every 4 to 6 weeks is recommended.
In case, he becomes smelly it is best to do wiping as frequent bathing may dry the skin of the essential oils.
Use a damp cloth and wipe in the direction of the hairs. This will help to remove any fine particles of dirt and leave hair clean and the skin moisturized.
Keeping him hydrated
Dehydrated skin is often the cause of dog shedding his hair. Typically a dog should drink an ounce of water per pound of his body weight per day.
If you see him shedding his hair, keeping his water bowl filled may help.
Tips to manage Pitbull hair around the house
Cleaning up Pitbull hair is no joke (Pitbull owners will understand). The hair of the Pitbull is described as sticky and will attach to anything, this includes you! For this reason, we suggest you prepare a list of tools and tricks to remove this hair.
Vacuum cleaner
Keep carpets and other fabric furnishings free from Pitbull hair. The suction power of the vacuum sucks hair off the most important places of your house, including your bed.
Lint roller brush
Need to get to work but have dog hair all over your suit? Quickest way is to use a lint roller brush. Sometimes, though, the hair may be too static and does not come off easily with this brush.
Microfiber cloths
Microfiber cloths are effective in getting rid of static hair. These are handy for cleaning around the house and on car seats. The best part is they are affordable and reusable.
Pitbull shedding is not much of a bother if you are an experienced dog owner. Compared to owning a long-haired dog, you will appreciate Pitbull shedding patterns. If you have a Pitbull, feel free to share some shedding stories in the comments section below.