The Shedding Struggle Is Real
If you own a Lab, Husky, German Shepherd, Corgi, or any double-coated breed in Gilbert, you know the drill: fur on the couch, fur on your clothes, fur in your coffee. No matter how much you brush, it seems like there's always more.
Professional deshedding is the secret weapon that can reduce shedding by up to 80% for weeks after treatment.
Understanding the Shed Cycle
Dogs don't shed randomly. Their coat follows a growth cycle:
- Anagen — Active growth phase
- Catagen — Transition phase (growth slows)
- Telogen — Resting phase
- Exogen — Shedding phase (old hair releases)
In Arizona, where temperatures don't vary as dramatically as in northern climates, many dogs shed year-round rather than in distinct seasonal blows. The constant air conditioning and artificial lighting can confuse the natural cycle.
The Professional Deshedding Process
Step 1: Pre-Bath Brushout
We start with a thorough brushout using undercoat rakes and deshedding tools to remove as much loose fur as possible before the bath. This can fill an entire garbage bag for heavy shedders.
Step 2: Deshedding Shampoo
We use professional-grade deshedding shampoos that contain ingredients like:
- Omega fatty acids — nourish the coat and reduce excess shedding
- Natural oils — condition the skin and loosen dead undercoat
- Gentle surfactants — clean without stripping protective oils
The shampoo is massaged deep into the coat and left to work for several minutes.
Step 3: High-Velocity Blow Dry
This is where the magic happens. Our professional high-velocity dryers blast loose undercoat out of the coat at high speed. The force separates dead fur from the living coat without pulling or damaging it.
If you've ever seen a groomer use a high-velocity dryer on a Husky, you know it looks like a fur snowstorm. It's incredibly satisfying.
Step 4: Post-Bath Brushout
After the blow dry, we do another thorough brushout to catch any remaining loose fur. By this point, the coat is clean, conditioned, and dramatically lighter.
Step 5: Finishing
A final comb-through ensures no tangles or loose patches remain. The result is a smooth, shiny coat that sheds significantly less.
How Long Do Results Last?
A professional deshedding treatment typically reduces shedding for 3–6 weeks, depending on:
- Your dog's breed and coat type
- The time of year
- Your at-home brushing routine
- Your dog's diet and health
At-Home Maintenance Between Treatments
To extend the results:
- Brush 2–3 times per week with an undercoat rake
- Feed a high-quality diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
- Keep your dog hydrated — hydration affects coat health
- Supplement with fish oil — consult your vet for dosing
Is Deshedding Right for Your Dog?
Deshedding is ideal for:
- Double-coated breeds (Huskies, Goldens, Shepherds, Corgis, etc.)
- Heavy shedders of any breed
- Dogs with thick undercoats
It's NOT recommended for:
- Single-coated breeds (Poodles, Maltese, Yorkies)
- Dogs with skin conditions (consult your vet first)
- Recently shaved dogs