How Much Does a Papillon Shed? Vet-Verified Facts & Grooming Tips

You may know that having a dog comes with some inconveniences, and loose hair is one of them. Although some breeds shed considerably more than others, if you have a low tolerance for or allergies to heavy shedding, knowing how much a dog is likely to shed is a crucial factor when choosing a new puppy.

We know that all dogs shed some hair now and then, but do Papillons shed? Papillons have a long, silky single coat and shed moderately. Several factors can affect how much an individual dog may shed, which we will discuss further in this article.

How Much Do Papillons Shed?

The American Kennel Club1 (AKC) categorizes Papillons as moderate shedders. However, although they have long, flowing hair, they are single-coated and therefore don’t tend to shed as much hair as double-coated breeds who have a thick undercoat.

Papillons shed moderately throughout the year and may experience some increase in shedding during the changing of the seasons. Other factors will cause a Papillon to shed more than they usually would, and we will look at these factors a bit more in-depth to help you determine how much your Papillon may shed.

Factors That Can Influence How Much a Papillon Sheds

Shedding is a normal part of a Papillon’s hair growth cycle and it happens year round. However, your Papillon may shed a bit more hair seasonally, and certain health concerns and conditions can lead to abnormal shedding. Let’s look at some of the factors that can affect shedding:

1. Diet

Your Papillon’s diet can have a significant impact on your overall health. They need the necessary nutrients from a high-quality, complete diet to maintain their health and energy levels. Key nutrients for skin and coat health include protein (which makes up 95% of each hair within the coat), omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

A poor quality diet, such as one with inadequate protein, may affect their coat and one of the first signs seen may be an increase in shedding. Speak to a veterinarian for advice on the best complete diet that meets your Papillon’s nutritional needs. Skin and coat supplements, particularly those containing omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, can also help.

If you have a question about your dog's health or behavior, why not Ask a Vet for free? Our veterinary team answers reader questions and provides trusted advice to help you better understand your dog.

2. Season

The seasons can also influence your Papillon shedding, although typically not as much as double-coated breeds who blow their undercoat twice a year. A Papillon may shed a bit more in the spring, as they prepare for warmer weather. An increase in shedding in the fall may also occur to create room for a heavier winter coat.

You may need to pay more attention to grooming at these times of year.

3. Age

Even though a dog’s age may not seem to be a significant factor in how much they shed, age can make a difference, especially as they develop their adult coat. Puppies can shed a little more as they develop their adult coat.

Furthermore, as dogs age, they may shed a bit more.

However, if there is a very noticeable increase in the amount your senior dog is shedding, then it's a good idea to get them checked out by your vet to rule out any health concerns.

4. Skin Issues

Dogs may experience several skin disorders throughout their life. For example, dogs can develop allergies to things in the environment, such as pollen and house dust mites, or certain foods. Allergies most commonly affect the skin in dogs. Parasites, like fleas and mites, and bacterial and fungal infections are other frequent causes of hair loss and excess shedding.

Most of these skin issues cause dogs to incessantly lick or scratch themselves, damaging their coat and skin and leading to more frequent shedding.

5. Health Conditions

Various chronic health conditions can also disrupt the normal hair growth cycle and cause an increase in shedding. These include hormonal disorders such as hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), and Cushing’s disease.

Are Papillons Hypoallergenic?

What a lot of people don’t realize is that no dog is considered fully hypoallergenic. While Papillons have a single coat and shed less than some other breeds, they are not hypoallergenic and shed moderately throughout the year. Most people are allergic to a protein found in a dog’s saliva and dander (dead skin cells), so even a hairless dog can trigger allergies.

Sensitivities to dog allergens do vary from person to person, if you are mildly allergic but have your heart set on a Papillon, make sure you spend time with them before adopting, to see how much they trigger your allergies. You should also consult with your doctor.  You can also help manage triggers with proper grooming and cleaning your home regularly.

Can Grooming Help with Shedding?

Regular grooming can certainly help cut down on the amount of loose hair in your home. One of the most effective things you could do for your Papillon’s coat is gently brush it at least three or four times a week with a comb or soft pet brush to get rid of loose hair and keep it tangle-free.

Regular brushing will keep your Papillon's coat and skin healthy and shiny while dispersing the skin's natural oils. To avoid loose hair from settling onto your carpet and spreading, you can groom your Papillon outdoors and wash your hands once you are done to get rid of allergens.

Your Papillon only needs a bath on occasion, around once a month at the most. If it is time to wash your dog, choose a gentle shampoo that is suitable for dogs because your shampoo or other harsh soaps can irritate and dry up the skin, which will encourage shedding and itching. You can wipe your Pap's coat clean between baths with dog wipes or a moist cloth.

• You may also be interested in: 10 Papillon Grooming Tips: Canine Health & Wellness

When it comes to choosing the right grooming products for cleaning your pup to prevent dog odors and avoid skin irritation, there are two products we cannot recommend highly enough. The Oatmeal Pet Shampoo from Hepper is formulated with aloe and oatmeal to soothe skin and hydrate the coat; and for a convenient on-the-go option to quickly refresh sensitive areas, Hepper's Wash Wipes will help you keep your dog clean from head to tail with moisturizing ingredients. Both products are pH-balanced and formulated with pet-friendly ingredients, free of harsh soaps, chemicals, and dyes. Give this duo a try to soothe, heal and nourish your dog's coat, and leave them with an irresistible just-left-the-spa cucumber and aloe scent.

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How to Keep Your Papillon's Coat Healthy

A healthy coat is essential to minimize shedding, and there are several ways you can help support your Papillon's skin and coat health, which can help prevent excessive shedding.

Conclusion

Papillons are considered moderate shedders, but how much or how often your pet sheds can be affected by many factors. Regular grooming and a well-balanced, quality diet are critical to healthy skin and fur.

If your Papillon is shedding excessively, has a thin coat, bald patches, or other skin abnormalities, then you should get them examined by your vet to determine the underlying cause and treatment.

Featured Image Credit: Sergey Lavrentev, Shutterstock