One of the most common questions new American bully owners have is “do American Bullies shed?”
When it comes to the American Bully breed, the answer is a bit complicated.
American Bullies shed an average amount of fur, but may shed more during the summer.
They are considered to be low-shedding dogs when brushed on a weekly basis.
However, American Bullies are not hypoallergenic.
How Much Do American Bullies Shed
This is not an easy question to measure, but I will say – I do not have to worry too much about leaving my house and being covered in dog fur, opening my lunch box and being greeted by dog fur, or using the bathroom, and… you get the point!
The American Bully Is A “Low-Shedding” Dog
What does low shedding mean for dog breeds? It means that the dog’s coat is mostly made up of stiff guard hairs, which protect the dog from the elements and help to repel dirt and debris.
Underneath the guard hairs is a softer layer of fur, which helps to insulate the dog and keep them warm.
Because the coat is so dense, it does not release individual hairs as easily as other breeds, which is what causes all of the shedding.
For most people, this is a desirable trait in a dog, as it means that there will be less hair around the house.
Why Is My American Bully Shedding so Much?
So, you have read that they do not shed much, yet your pup is right there in front of you, on your lap, with a blanket of fur on your black work trousers.
What’s up with that?
Stress-Induced Shedding
Stress is one primary reason why your American Bully might be shedding more than usual.
If there have been any changes in the home, such as a move, a new baby, or a pet coming or going, this could be the reason for the excess shedding.
Also, if you have been absent more than usual, or there has been a change in routine, such as a new work schedule, this can also be a trigger for additional shedding.
The good news is that once the stressful event has passed, the fur should go back to normal.
If it does not and your American Bully continues to shed excessively, there could be an underlying health condition causing it such as:
- allergies,
- hypothyroidism,
- Cushing’s disease
- or lack of stimulation.
For example, excess shedding is very common in bullies who are kept up in their crate 24-7. They are active pups and need to be stimulated and moving aorund.
How To Combat Shedding In American Bullies
Grooming:
Brushed daily with a de-shedding tool like The Furminator will help to remove loose hair and help to reduce the amount of shedding.
Diet:
In addition, feeding a high-quality diet that contains omega-3 fatty acids will also help to reduce excessive shedding by keeping the coat healthy and lustrous.
I like to include a few squirts of this salmon oil with every meal and it has Raven’s coat consistently shiny and healthy.
Another great addition to the diet, if you have a few extra dollars is some virgin coconut oil. Dogs LOVE it and it provides a number of health benefits. I recommend the non-GMO, cold-pressed stuff (and, you can eat it too!)
Boredom:
Finally, making sure your American Bully doesn’t become bored by providing plenty of toys and activities will help to keep them happy and stress-free which will also minimize shedding.
Regular grooming with The Furminator will help reduce excessive shedding by removing loose hair and keeping the coat healthy and lustrous. While feeding a high-quality diet that contains omega-3 fatty acids will also help minimize shedding by maintaining a healthy coat.
Are American Bullies High Maintenance?
American Bullies are certainly not high-maintenance dogs. With a little bit of brushing to keep their healthy coat in good condition and minimal shedding, they are relatively easy to take care of.
A good diet is also important to keep them healthy and minimize health problems later on in life.
American Bullies need stimulation and exercise just like any other dog, but due to their size and build, they need more intense execrise, so a good Daily routine including a walk, playtime, and some training will ensure that your American Bully is happy and healthy.
Do American Bullies smell?
Just like any other dog, American Bullies may have a bit of an odor – especially when they get wet. But generally speaking, they don’t tend to be smelly dogs.
They have short coats that don’t hold onto dirt and wrinkles that don’t trap odors the way some other breeds do.
So if you’re looking for a low-maintenance companion who won’t leave your house smelling like a kennel, an American Bully might be a good choice for you.
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