The Boston Terrier is a smaller breed of dogs that does shed to some extent. When compared to other larger breeds with double fur coats, however, the shedding is much less.
What Is Shedding?
This is a natural and normal process that almost all canines experience. The old fur begins falling out to make room for the new fur growth.
Some breeds will shed considerably less than others, and this depends on the breed and its hair growth cycle.
How quickly a hair grows during its anagen or growth cycle and then falls out will depend on the breed and the individual dog.
What Is a Hair Growth Cycle?
All hair goes through cycles and your Boston Terrier’s fur coat is no exception. When hair or fur falls out, you do not necessarily need to be worried as it may be part of a natural cycle.
The first phase of hair growth is known as anagen, and this is the phase when a hair begins to grow. The second phase is called catagen. This is the part of the natural hair cycle during which the fur will begin to fall out and shed.
The second phase happens after the fur has grown to its full length, in this case the Boston Terrier. Hair length for any canine breed depends entirely on genetics.
There also is a third phase known as telogen. This phase is when the hair stops growing but this phase also doesn’t happen as often. Most of the time fur will be growing, and consequently shedding.
It’s important to understand these natural hair growth cycles because it explains why your Boston Terrier’s shedding will fluctuate.
These hair growth cycles can change if your dog is ill, and they will change as dogs get older.
What Is Characteristic Shedding for the Boston Terrier Breed?
Boston Terriers possess a very short smooth coat of fur. During the year, these coats shed very little. There may be a bit of increased shedding toward the end of spring and in autumn.
The Boston terrier is easy to groom, so brushing several times per week, or every few days should help you keep shedding in your home to a minimum. A bristle or rubber brush is the ideal tool to help keep your pooch free of dead hair that will inevitably be shed.
Boston Terriers are not the lowest shedding dogs around. An example of a very low shedding breed is the Havanese, but Boston Terriers are not far behind. French Bulldogs and pugs for example will shed more.
Generally speaking, you shouldn’t even notice a Boston Terrier’s shedding all that much. This will change only when the seasons change and there is an increase in shedding.
Do Boston Terriers Experience Seasonal Shedding?
Yes, Boston terriers will experience seasonal shedding, and during these seasonal changes, their shedding will increase.
Can I Reduce My Boston Terrier’s Shedding?
The best way to reduce your Boston terrier’s shedding is by brushing your dog. A healthy diet will contribute to skin and fur coat health, as well as an occasional bath.
Brushing is the most effective tool and a 5-minute brushing daily or every other day will reduce fur shed in your home noticeably.
Brushing will remove dead hair before it falls, or your dog shakes it off. But this simple activity will also massage your dog’s skin and spread the skin’s natural oils throughout which will contribute to fur coat health.
Bathing can also aid in the reduction of shedding. By bathing your dog, you can loosen up your dog’s old fur. Use a high-quality dog shampoo. Once you have finished bathing, brush your dog thoroughly.
You’ll notice a lot of dead hair will be removed in the process. Do not exaggerate however with bathing as this can dry your up’s skin out. With dry skin, shedding risks increasing.
Good diet can also positively influence your dog’s fur coat. Select a dog food that is high-quality and that is rich in nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids like omega 3 and 6. You can consult your vet for guidance.
Is the Boston Terrier Breed Hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic. In fact, this term can be a bit controversial. The term hypoallergenic implies that a dog breed will not cause any problems for allergy sufferers.
This is simply untrue. Even hairless canine breeds are never completely hypoallergenic. For sufferers of allergies, dog hair is not the problem but dog dander. Dander is dead skin flakes.
Undoubtedly, dander will cling to the animal’s fur. This means that as a dog sheds, more dander will be left around your home. It will also become airborne.
Because Boston terriers do not shed as much as other canine breeds, they may be a better breed choice than other dogs for allergy sufferers.
Nonetheless, do not make the mistake of considering a Boston terrier a hypoallergenic breed. The American Kennel Club also does not list the Boston Terrier in their list of breeds that they consider hypoallergenic.
Are Boston Terriers Easy to Groom?
Boston Terriers are considered low maintenance as a breed. They do not require much grooming and what little they do does not require much time.
Thanks to their smooth, short coats, they require little brushing and bathing. This is noticeably in contrast with dogs that have heavy thick coats. During seasonal changes with increased shedding, you may want to brush your pup daily.
Rubber brushes are ideal for dogs with short coats because there is less possibility of harming your dog. Your other alternative is to use a bristle brush that features bristles which are tightly packed for short-coated breeds.
Is Shedding Ever a cause for Concern?
It can be a cause for concern. There are factors that can contribute to unhealthy shedding. These include
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- Allergies
- Fleas or other external parasites
- Hormonal imbalances
- Poor diets and malnutrition
- Skin infections
- Stress
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If you suspect that your dog’s molting is abnormal, contact your veterinarian for an evaluation.
When Should I Seek Help Due to Excessive Shedding?
Often excessive shedding will lead to bald spots or patches on your dog. Skin may also end up red and bumpy.
If your dog is experiencing excessive shedding that you feel is much more than normal and his or her skin is in bad shape, get your pup to your vet and request a full work-up.
If, after testing, there is a health issue, your vet will decide on what is the best way to proceed and if a specific treatment is called for.
In Conclusion
Shedding is normal for dogs and specifically for your Boston terrier. It allows for the exchange of dead fur with new hair growth.
Manage your dog’s shedding with daily or frequent brushings. If you feel that shedding is excessive or your Boston terrier’s skin appears unhealthy, contact your veterinarian.
