It depends; shedding tendencies of Bedlington Whippets can vary depending on which parent breed they take after more. Bedlington Terriers have a curly coat that sheds minimally but requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Whippets have a short, smooth coat that sheds lightly year-round and more heavily during seasonal changes.
If a Bedlington Whippet inherits the curly coat of the Bedlington Terrier, they are likely to shed minimally and require regular grooming to keep its coat healthy and tangle-free. If they inherit the short coat of the Whippet, they are likely to shed lightly throughout the year and more heavily during seasonal changes.
It is vital to note that no dog breed is truly 100% hypoallergenic, as all dogs produce some dander and allergens. However, dogs with minimal shedding tendencies may be better suited for individuals with allergies. Therefore, if you have concerns about allergies, it is recommended to spend time around Bedlington Whippets before selecting to welcome one into your house.
Factors Affecting Shedding in Bedlington Whippets
While Bedlington Whippets are generally low-shedding dogs, several factors can affect their shedding. These include:
- Genetics: Their genetic makeup largely determines the amount and type of shedding that a Bedlington Whippet will exhibit. Suppose a Bedlington Whippet inherits the curly coat of the Bedlington Terrier. In that case, they are likely to shed minimally, while if they inherit the short coat of the Whippet, they are likely to shed lightly year-round and more heavily during seasonal changes.
- Diet: The quality of a dog’s diet can affect its skin and coat health, which in turn can impact shedding, according to VCA Animal Hospitals. A well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet can help keep a Bedlington Whippet’s coat healthy and reduce shedding.
- Health: Certain health conditions, such as allergies or skin infections, can increase dog shedding. Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect and treat any health issues affecting a Bedlington Whippet’s coat and shedding.
- Grooming: Based on experience, regular grooming can help manage shedding in Bedlington Whippets. Brushing their coat regularly can help remove loose fur and prevent matting, while regular baths can help keep their skin and coat healthy.
Tips to Manage Shedding in Bedlington Whippets
Bedlington Whippets are a low-shedding breed but shed a little bit. Shedding can be managed with proper grooming, diet and nutrition, exercise, and supplements.
Grooming
Grooming is an essential part of managing shedding in Bedlington Whippets. Regular brushing with a strong bristle brush or comb can help remove loose hairs and prevent matting. Bathing should be done only when necessary to avoid washing away natural protective oils in the coat. Additionally, trimming the coat can help reduce shedding and make grooming easier.
Diet and Nutrition
A high-quality diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can help strengthen the coat and reduce shedding in Bedlington Whippets. Feeding a diet appropriate for the dog’s age, weight, and activity level can also help maintain overall health and reduce shedding.
Exercise
Regular exercise is necessary for overall health and can help reduce shedding in Bedlington Whippets. Exercise should be appropriate for the dog’s age and activity level and include physical and mental stimulation.
Bathing
Bathing a Bedlington Whippet can help keep their skin and coat clean and healthy, but it is important to avoid over-bathing, as it can strip their coat of natural oils and lead to dry skin.
Generally, a Bedlington Whippet must only be bathed every 4-6 weeks or as needed if they become dirty or smelly. Instead, use a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner appropriate for their coat type, and avoid using human shampoo, as it can be too harsh for their skin and coat.
When bathing a Bedlington Whippet, rinse them thoroughly to remove all shampoo and conditioner residue, which can cause irritation and dryness. After bathing, use a towel to gently dry them off, or use a low-heat blow dryer on the lowest setting, taking care not to blow hot air directly onto their skin.
Vacuuming
Vacuuming is an important part of managing to shed in Bedlington Whippets, as it can help remove loose fur and prevent it from accumulating on furniture and floors. Here are some tips for effective vacuuming:
- Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter: HEPA filters trap allergens and prevent them from being released into the air, which can help reduce allergic reactions.
- Vacuum frequently: To prevent fur buildup, it’s important to vacuum regularly. How often you vacuum will depend on your circumstances, such as the size of your home and the shedding level of your Bedlington Whippet.
- Use a vacuum attachment: Use a vacuum attachment, such as a pet hair tool, to effectively remove fur from upholstery and furniture.
- Vacuum before and after grooming: Vacuum before and after grooming your Bedlington Whippet to help remove any loose fur that may have been left behind.
- Clean and maintain your vacuum: To ensure it functions properly and effectively removes fur, cleaning and maintaining it regularly is important.
Supplements
Bedlington Whippets can benefit from various supplements that help support their overall health and well-being. Here are a few examples:
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, can help lessen inflammation and support skin and coat health.
- Probiotics: Probiotic supplements can help improve digestion and support the immune system.
- Glucosamine and chondroitin: These supplements can help support joint health and mobility, which can be important for active Bedlington Whippets.
- Multivitamins: A high-quality multivitamin can help ensure your Bedlington Whippet gets all the essential vitamins and minerals needed to thrive.
- Coenzyme Q10: Coenzyme Q10 can help support heart health and energy production.
