Grooming and coat
How can I reduce dog shedding in the house?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Regular brushing, three to four times a week for double coated breeds and daily during a seasonal blow, removes loose hair before it ends up on furniture and floors. A high quality diet, weekly vacuuming with a pet specific attachment, and washable throws on favorite resting spots all help manage the rest.
Brushing outside is the biggest single fix
Taking the brushing session outdoors or onto a hard floor that is easy to sweep, rather than doing it on carpet or a sofa, keeps the bulk of loose hair from ever settling into fabric in the first place. Three to four sessions a week for a double coated breed, using an undercoat rake, removes hair before it has the chance to shed naturally around the house.
Managing what still gets through
A vacuum with a dedicated pet hair attachment, used weekly on carpets and upholstery, handles the hair that brushing misses. Washable throws over a dog's favorite chair or sofa spot, laundered weekly, contain the mess to one easily cleaned item rather than the whole piece of furniture.
Diet plays a supporting role
A complete, good quality diet with adequate fat content supports a healthier coat and can reduce excessive shedding caused by nutritional gaps, though it will not eliminate the normal seasonal shed that is simply part of how a double coat works.
Key takeaways
- Brushing outdoors or on hard flooring stops most loose hair from settling into fabric.
- A weekly vacuum with a pet hair attachment and washable throws manage the rest.
- A good quality, complete diet supports coat health but will not stop normal seasonal shedding.