What autumn coat change actually means for your dog

There is a moment every autumn when pet parents start noticing hair everywhere. On the sofa. On their clothes. In small tumbleweeds gathering in the corners of rooms. Then the questions start. Is my dog shedding more than usual? Should I be brushing them differently? Do I need to book a groom?

The answer to all of it is yes, and this is why.

Why autumn triggers a coat change

Most dogs aren't shedding because it's getting cold. They're shedding because the days are getting shorter. Reducing daylight hours trigger a hormonal response that starts the transition from summer coat to winter coat. This is why coat change starts in September, well before the weather actually turns.

Over four to six weeks, dogs lose their lighter summer coat and grow a denser, warmer winter one. Some dogs go through it barely noticeably, while others produce enough hair to knit a second dog.

Which dogs are most affected

Double-coated breeds go through the biggest change. Labradors, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Huskies, Corgis, Pomeranians, Chow Chows. These dogs have two layers: a soft, insulating undercoat and a longer, protective topcoat. In autumn, the undercoat thickens dramatically.

Single-coated breeds like Poodles, Bichons, and Maltese don't shed in the same way. They still experience a seasonal shift, but the change is much subtler.

Mixed breeds fall somewhere in between depending on their genetics. If your Cockapoo takes after the Cocker parent, expect more shedding than if they take after the Poodle parent.

Why more brushing, not less

The instinct when hair is coming out is to leave the dog alone, but the opposite is what actually helps. Regular brushing during coat change removes the loose undercoat before it mats, redistributes skin oils, and stimulates healthy new coat growth. It also means less hair on the sofa.

For double-coated dogs, a proper undercoat rake used a few times a week through the shedding period makes a significant difference. For coated breeds, a slicker brush combined with a comb works well.

The one thing not to do

Never shave a double-coated dog to reduce shedding. Their coat is a temperature regulation system, and shaving also damages the coat's ability to grow back properly, exposes the skin, and often makes shedding worse over the following year. Any reputable groomer will refuse to do it, and advise pet parents as to why.

When to book a professional groom

Most of our clients already come in every four to six weeks for a wash and fluff, so this is really about layering in the extra work coat change demands. An undercoat de-shed as part of the regular groom, particularly for double-coated breeds, catches the loose hair before it ends up everywhere. If your groomer isn't already doing this at this time of year, ask them to. And in between visits, brushing at home a few times a week makes a real difference.

Watch for skin sensitivity

Some dogs experience mild skin sensitivity during coat change. Redness, dry patches, more scratching than usual. Usually it settles on its own within a few weeks. If it doesn't, it’s worth mentioning to your vet or groomer.

Autumn coat change is one of those things nobody explains to new pet parents, and then leaves them frustrated for years. Understanding what's actually happening and what action to take, makes the whole thing much more manageable.

If you'd like a proper de-shed groom or advice specific to your dog's coat, come and see us. We're on King's Road seven days a week. 🐾