At a glance
- Finnish Lapphunds shed moderately year-round with two intense seasonal "coat blows" in spring and autumn
- Daily brushing with proper tools during shedding seasons prevents excessive hair around your home
- Never shave their double coat as it regulates temperature in both hot and cold weather
- Investment in quality de-shedding tools and high-velocity dryers makes management significantly easier
Understanding your dog's shedding patterns
You might notice your Finnish Lapphund leaves hair everywhere, and wonder if this is normal. The answer is yes, but understanding the pattern helps you manage it effectively. These dogs were bred for herding reindeer in Arctic conditions, which means they developed a dense, double-layered coat that sheds considerably.
Research shows that Finnish Lapphunds experience moderate shedding throughout the year, punctuated by two major "coat blows" annually. During these intense periods, typically in early spring and autumn, they lose enough fur to "convince you there are two dogs" living in your home. This dramatic shedding is triggered by changes in daylight and hormonal cycles, not temperature alone.
The double coat consists of a harsh, water-resistant outer layer and a soft, insulating undercoat. While both layers shed, the undercoat is the main contributor during seasonal blows. Understanding this structure is crucial because it explains why proper brushing technique matters so much for effective hair management.
Essential grooming tools and techniques
Many owners struggle with shedding because they're using the wrong tools or techniques. A regular pet brush simply won't penetrate the dense undercoat effectively. You'll need specific equipment designed for double-coated breeds.
For daily maintenance, use a slicker brush and metal comb. During heavy shedding periods, an undercoat rake or de-shedding tool becomes essential. Products like the Furminator or Safari Undercoat Rake, typically costing between $15-30, efficiently remove dead undercoat that regular brushes miss.
Your brushing technique matters as much as your tools. Start at the rear and work forward, always brushing down to the skin level. Focus extra attention on areas with the densest undercoat: the rear, chest, and neck regions. During non-shedding periods, brush 2-3 times weekly. When seasonal shedding begins, increase this to daily sessions.
A high-velocity dryer, while a larger investment at $50-200, transforms your grooming routine. After bathing, use it to blow out loose undercoat before it ends up on your furniture. This technique is particularly effective during peak shedding seasons and dramatically reduces the amount of hair left around your house.
Bathing and coat care strategies
Frequent bathing actually worsens shedding problems by stripping natural oils that keep the coat healthy. Bathe your dog only when necessary, typically every 6-8 weeks or when they get genuinely dirty. Over-bathing can irritate the skin and paradoxically increase hair loss.
Choose your products carefully. Use volumising, non-softening shampoos that maintain the coat's natural texture. Professional groomers recommend products like Isle of Dogs No. 20 Royal Jelly Shampoo for reducing shedding while adding volume. For facial cleaning, gentler options like EarthBath Puppy Shampoo work well.
Avoid heavy conditioners that soften the coat excessively. If you use conditioner, choose light formulas like Isle of Dogs '2 Build' Volumiser. The goal is maintaining the coat's natural protective properties while managing loose hair.
During bath time, pay attention to areas beyond the coat. Check and clean ears weekly using cotton balls and appropriate ear cleaner. This prevents irritation and infection that can worsen shedding through scratching and skin problems.
Managing seasonal coat blows
When your Finnish Lapphund enters a major shedding period, your normal grooming routine won't suffice. These intense phases require daily attention and sometimes professional intervention.
Increase brushing to daily sessions, spending 15-20 minutes thoroughly working through the coat. You'll remove surprising amounts of loose undercoat each day. Don't be alarmed by the volume, this is normal and necessary for your dog's comfort.
Consider professional de-shedding treatments during peak seasons if home grooming becomes overwhelming. Professional groomers have industrial-strength equipment and experience managing heavy shedding that can make the process more efficient.
Environmental management becomes crucial during these periods. Use washable throws on furniture, vacuum daily if possible, and consider air purifiers to manage airborne hair. The investment in proper tools and techniques pays off significantly during these challenging weeks.
Common mistakes that worsen shedding
The biggest mistake owners make is shaving their dog's coat, thinking this reduces shedding. Never shave a Finnish Lapphund. Their double coat protects against both cold and heat, and shaving disrupts natural thermoregulation. Shaved dogs often experience skin problems and discomfort that actually increases scratching and hair loss.
Inconsistent grooming creates more problems than it solves. Skipping brushing sessions leads to matting, which traps loose hair and makes eventual grooming sessions more difficult and stressful for your dog. Regular maintenance prevents these compounding problems.
Using inappropriate tools wastes time and frustrates both you and your dog. Human brushes, cheap pet brushes, or tools designed for single-coated breeds simply won't work effectively on this coat type. Invest in proper equipment from the start.
Some owners think moving to warmer climates reduces shedding, but this isn't true. Shedding is driven by daylight cycles and hormones, not temperature. These dogs actually need extra care in warm climates to prevent overheating, but their shedding patterns remain the same.
When to seek professional help
Sometimes shedding indicates health problems rather than normal seasonal patterns. Excessive hair loss outside normal shedding periods could signal allergies, parasites, or hormonal issues requiring veterinary attention.
Watch for skin lesions, redness, unusual odour, or areas of complete hair loss. These symptoms suggest infection or dermatitis that needs medical treatment. Similarly, if your dog shows behavioral changes during grooming, such as unusual discomfort or aggression, underlying pain or health issues might be present.
Professional grooming becomes valuable when home management isn't sufficient. Groomers experienced with double-coated breeds can provide intensive de-shedding treatments and teach you improved techniques for home maintenance.
If you have allergies or cannot tolerate significant amounts of dog hair in your home, honestly assess whether this breed suits your situation. They are not hypoallergenic, and even excellent grooming won't eliminate shedding entirely.
Creating a sustainable routine
Success with shedding management comes from establishing consistent habits rather than perfect technique. Start grooming routines early in your dog's life, using positive reinforcement to make sessions pleasant experiences.
Most dogs cooperate better with frequent, shorter sessions than occasional marathon grooming attempts. Five to ten minutes of daily brushing during shedding season is more effective than hour-long weekly sessions that stress both you and your dog.
Track your dog's shedding patterns over the first year to predict when intensive periods will occur. This allows you to prepare mentally and practically for the increased grooming demands.
Remember that proper nutrition supports coat health and may reduce excessive shedding. High-quality diets provide the nutrients necessary for healthy skin and hair growth. Consult your veterinarian before adding supplements, but ensure your dog's basic nutritional needs are well met.
By understanding your dog's natural shedding patterns and implementing consistent, appropriate grooming techniques, you can successfully manage even the most dramatic coat blows while keeping both your dog comfortable and your home relatively hair-free.
