🦴 Updated on July 20th, 2023
Vacuuming Pitbull hair off your floor and furniture is something you have to do regularly as a pet owner. Pit Bull owners often assume that their pets won’t shed much due to their short coats.
But do Pitbulls shed a lot? As a Pit Bull owner, I can assure you that this breed sheds just as much as other dogs. However, you can do a few things to help your dog maintain a healthy coat and manage shedding.
Why Do Dogs Shed?
Before we discuss Pit Bulls and shedding any further, it’s essential to understand why dogs shed. Shedding is a natural way of getting rid of old hair so that new growth can happen.
It also helps your dog regulate their body temperature. You’ve probably noticed that your dog’s coat tends to get thicker and denser in the winter. Shedding helps your dog stay cool in the summer and prevents overheating.
However, excessive shedding can indicate an underlying medical condition such as a skin infection. We’ll discuss when shedding is worrisome later on since there are signs you should watch out for as a dog owner.
You should also know that some breeds shed more than others because they have a layered coat. These breeds include huskies, labs, or German shepherds. These dogs will get rid of their undercoat in the spring and fall to allow for new growth.
Compared to these breeds, a single-coated dog sheds a lot less. However, you should expect consistent shedding throughout the year due to the natural growth cycles of the fur or hair.
How Much Do Pitbulls Shed?
The Pitbull shedding level can come as a surprise for new Pit Bull owners. So, how do Pitbulls shed? These dogs have a short and dense coat, and many people assume there won’t be much shedding due to their short hair.
The truth is that Pit Bulls are moderate shedders. It’s a breed that grows fur rather than dog hair. Even though fur and hair look similar, dog hair tends to be longer and have slower growth cycles, which can result in less shedding.
Dog fur is short and dense. It has short growth cycles, which means you’ll see more shedding to make room for new fur. Compared to other breeds that grow a single layer of dog fur, Pit Bulls have relatively short growth cycles and tend to shed more than other similar breeds.
While Pit Bulls don’t have an undercoat that results in dramatic shedding when the season changes, you should see consistent shedding throughout the year. Your pup may shed a little more at the end of the winter to get rid of the thick and dense Pitbull fur that grew during the cold months.
Do Pit Bulls Shed the Same?
All Pit Bulls are moderate shedders. However, between the different standard and non-standard colors that exist for Pit Bulls, the color of the fur can make a difference in how much shedding you notice.
For example, do Blue Nose Pitbulls shed? Genetic traits that give Pit Bulls unique colors, such as the Blue Nose Pit Bull or the American Pit Bull terrier with their copper-colored noses, don’t cause dogs to shed more or less than other Pit Bulls since there aren’t different types of Pitbull coats.
However, you should know that Pit Bulls are an extremely popular breed and that there are significant differences in the DNA of dogs that breeders and shelter employees identify as Pit Bulls. Some studies suggest that as many as half of all Pit Bulls could actually have DNA from other breeds.
There are a total of five or six different dog breeds that share characteristics like a broad head and a stocky build that people often associate with Pit Bulls. Dogs like boxers, American Staffordshire terriers, or mastiffs look similar to Pit Bulls, and it’s possible to misidentify them.
And unless you purchased a puppy from a reputable breeder, your pup could be a Pit Bull mix. It’s frequent for shelters to present dogs as Pit Bulls even though the animals are a mix of different breeds.
Shedding can vary based on the unique genetic makeup of each dog. A dog’s DNA can change the density of their fur, its thickness, and how long the growth cycles are. Even though Pit Bulls are moderate shedders, your dog might be different due to how diverse the Pit Bull breed really is.
How Much Do Pit Bull Puppies Shed?
All puppies have a puppy coat that they shed around four to six months of age. The puppy coat tends to be thinner and softer compared to the fur that will grow as an adult.
In some cases, colors and patterns can change as your puppy loses their puppy coat and grows their adult fur. Because puppy fur is usually thinner, you might not notice a lot of shedding until your new pet starts blowing their puppy coat.
Puppy fur typically has faster growth cycles, which means shedding happens at a quicker pace. Don’t worry if it seems like you’re constantly vacuuming hair after adopting a Pit Bull puppy. Shedding will slow down once your pup gets their adult Pit Bull coat.
Once your puppy starts shedding their puppy coat, you’ll have to get through a few weeks with a lot of shedding. Your puppy’s fur might look patchy or shaggy. There is no cause for concern since any bald spots will fill in as your dog’s adult fur starts growing.
Do Older Pit Bulls Shed More?
Shedding can increase as your dog ages since your dog’s skin, and coat might not be as healthy as they used to be.
Shedding can also become more noticeable since older dogs tend to be less active. If your older Pit Bull spends more time napping in the same spot, you’ll see more hair accumulate in their bed or on the couch.
How to Manage Pit Bull Shedding
Do Pitbulls shed more or less if they are bathed and brushed regularly? You can do a few things to help your Pit Bull maintain their skin and coat health. These steps will also help those who are wondering how to stop their Pitbull from shedding.
However, you should keep in mind that shedding is natural and that you can’t eliminate it completely.
Brushing
Brushing is essential for your dog’s health. It removes dead hair from your Pit Bull’s fur, and it’s a great way to bond with your dog.
Another benefit of brushing is that it stimulates circulation. As a result, your dog will have healthier skin that produces plenty of oil for a healthy and shiny coat. If you brush your pup regularly, shedding could decrease since healthy fur will be less likely to fall off.
It’s important to choose the right brush for your pet. Since Pit Bulls have a coat that is short and stiff, a flexible bristle brush is best. It’s the best Pitbull shedding brush since it will untangle the fur and catch any dead hair.
Using combs and wire pin brushes makes sense for dogs with a longer coat, but these grooming tools aren’t necessary for a Pit Bull. The same thing applies to de-shedding tools. These products can remove dead hair from your dog’s undercoat, but since Pit Bulls don’t have an undercoat, there is no need to use a de-shedding tool.
You should brush your dog two or three times a week or more often if you have a dog that sheds a lot. You might want to brush your dog more frequently at the end of the winter as the thick fur falls off.
Bathing
Bathing is an important part of Pit Bull grooming. Warm water can loosen follicles and help old hair fall off. You can also use some grooming tools while bathing your pet to remove as much old fur as possible and reduce shedding.
You can use a de-shedding dog shampoo to manage shedding. These shampoos contain moisturizing agents that will support skin and coat health, leaving your Pitbull furry.
Diet
Your dog’s food and water intake can have an impact on shedding. If your Pit Bull is eating a healthy and well-balanced diet with all the vitamins and nutrients they need, their coat should be strong and healthy.
Excessive shedding can be a sign that you need to offer a high-quality diet. You should talk to your vet about supplements or about switching to different dog food.
Ingredients like Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids or Vitamin E can support skin and coat health. It’s possible to introduce these nutrients by offering a cod liver oil supplement or another product.
When Is Shedding Worrisome?
Do Pitbulls shed more under certain conditions? Excessive shedding can indicate an underlying health problem. You should take your Pit Bull to the vet if you notice any sudden changes in how much your dog sheds. You should also keep an eye on your dog’s skin and look for signs of irritation, sores, or itchiness.
Different health issues can cause excessive shedding, including:
- Infections. Fungal or bacterial infections can affect the skin and cause the fur to fall off. Infections are easy to treat with antibiotics or an antifungal treatment if you address the issue early.
- Parasites. A bad flea, lice, or mite infestation can cause your pup to scratch until bald spots appear. You will notice excessive shedding, itchiness, and might be able to see some bites or bleeding.
- Allergies. Dogs can develop allergic reactions to several things. If you notice that your Pit Bull is shedding more after switching to a different brand of dog food, there might be ingredients your pup is sensitive to. Being in contact with irritating substances can also cause an allergic reaction.
- Sunburns. Even though dogs have a layer of fur or hair to protect them from the sun, they can get sunburns. If you notice shedding and pink or red skin that is peeling, your Pit Bull might have a sunburn.
- More serious conditions. Excessive shedding can indicate a more serious health problem, such as cancer, an autoimmune disease, or issues with the kidneys, liver, or thyroid. It’s best to take your Pit Bull to the vet to do some tests if you notice any changes in how much your dog sheds.
A Few Tips to Keep Your Home Free of Pit Bull Fur
A combination of brushing, bathing, and feeding a healthy diet should keep shedding to a minimum but keep in mind that shedding is part of owning a Pit Bull.
As a dog owner, you need to adopt a routine to eliminate fur before it builds up in your home. Here are a few tips to help you:
- Pay attention to the materials and fabrics that seem to catch the most fur. You might want to restrict access to some rooms or teach your pup that some furniture is off-limits.
- Lint rollers are a must-have! They’re a quick and easy way to get rid of dog hair that accumulates on clothes or upholstery. Keep a lint roller near your door, so you can give yourself a quick brush-off before heading out.
- Think about replacing carpeting or rugs with hardwood floors. Sweeping dog hair from hardwood floors only takes a few minutes since the hair won’t get caught in the carpet or rug fibers.
- Faux leather furniture is a lot easier to keep clean if you own a dog. All you have to do is wipe the upholstery once or twice a week to remove dead hair.
- You can use plastic covers for your couch, armchairs, or even for your car seats.
- Invest in a quality pet vacuum. These vacuums come with special attachments that can catch dog hair. Get into the habit of vacuuming regularly.
FAQs
Do you have more questions about Pit Bulls and shedding? You’ll find answers below.
How often do Pit Bulls shed?
Pit Bulls regularly shed throughout the entire year. It’s not a breed that blows an undercoat when the season changes, but you might notice a little more shedding than usual at the end of the winter.
Do Pitbulls have hair or fur?
Pit Bulls have dog fur. Unlike breeds that have dog hair, Pit Bulls have a coat that is short and dense.
Do Pitbulls have an undercoat?
No, Pit Bulls don’t have an undercoat. They have a single layer of fur, which limits shedding compared to other breeds.
How to stop my Pitbull from shedding?
You can’t stop a dog from shedding. It’s a natural way of regulating their body temperature and ensuring that there is room for new growth for their coat.
However, you can take steps to reduce shedding. Brushing, bathing, and a healthy diet will support skin and coat health and can reduce shedding to some extent.
Can you shave a Pitbull?
Do Pitbulls need haircuts? Pit Bulls don’t have long hair, which means that they don’t need shaving. Your vet might recommend shaving your Pit Bull if your dog is dealing with a bad case of fleas or lice, but it’s not a breed that you need to shave.
Why is my pitbull shedding so much?
If your dog has been shedding more than usual, look for things that might have changed in their environment. The change of season or an allergic reaction to a new food can explain sudden shedding.
It’s best to take your Pit Bull to the vet to figure out what is causing the sudden change in shedding.
Wrap Up
Pit Bulls are moderate shedders, but the amount of fur your pooch sheds can vary from one individual to another. Shedding is pretty easy to manage in Pit Bulls if you vacuum regularly and use a combination of brushing, bathing, and quality dog food to support skin and coat health.
