What food is good for dogs losing hair?

Finding clumps of your dog’s fur on the couch, in your laundry, or even on your morning coffee mug is frustrating—especially when you’re not sure why it’s happening. For new dog owners, excessive shedding can feel like a never-ending battle, but the solution might be simpler than you think: adjusting their diet. Not all hair loss is normal, and the right foods can help keep your pup’s coat shiny and reduce those unwanted fur piles around your home.

The science behind it boils down to nutrients: a dog’s coat health depends on key ingredients like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins A and E. If their food is missing these, their skin can get dry, itchy, and flaky—and that leads to more shedding. For example, a dog eating a low-protein kibble might start losing hair because protein builds strong fur follicles. Similarly, omega-3s (found in fish like salmon) soothe inflammation, which is often the cause of excessive hair loss from skin irritation. Veterinarians often see this in dogs fed generic, low-quality foods that cut corners on these essential nutrients.

Choosing the right food starts with reading labels—look for kibble or wet food where a high-quality protein is the first ingredient. Avoid foods with lots of fillers, like corn or wheat, which offer little nutrition for coat health. You can also add small, safe supplements to their meals: a teaspoon of fish oil mixed into their food a few times a week, or a sprinkle of cooked, plain pumpkin (which has vitamin A) works well. For dogs with sensitive stomachs, try limited-ingredient diets—these reduce the risk of food allergies, another common cause of hair loss. Just introduce new foods slowly over 7-10 days to avoid upset tummies.

While diet is key, don’t forget to tie it to responsible pet care rules. Before changing your dog’s food, check in with your vet—they can rule out other causes of hair loss, like parasites or skin infections, and make sure the new diet meets your dog’s specific needs. Also, if you take your dog to dog parks or daycares, keep an eye on their coat—excessive scratching there might mean they picked up something, which a vet should address. And remember, even with the right food, regular brushing (2-3 times a week) helps remove loose fur and keeps their coat healthy—this is especially important for apartment dwellers to keep fur from building up in small spaces.

Feeding your dog food that supports their coat isn’t just about less shedding—it’s about keeping them happy and healthy overall. With the right nutrients, you’ll notice their fur gets softer, shinier, and less likely to end up all over your home. It might take a few weeks to see a difference, but being consistent with their diet and checking in with your vet will pay off. Before you know it, you’ll spend less time vacuuming fur and more time enjoying snuggles with your pup—without the extra mess.