Today we’re going to take a look at the question, so chocolate Labs shed?
If you’re a dog owner like me, you probably already know that dog hair becomes a norm in your house.
While there are some dog breeds that don’t shed, or shed less than others, many dog breeds shed their undercoat during the changing seasons.
One of those dog breeds is Chocolate Labradors! If you own a lab, you already know.
If you’re thinking of owning a lab but are hesitant about the shedding, don’t be! While they do shed quite a bit, it is manageable and totally worth it – labs are great dogs.
How Much do Chocolate Labs Shed?
Chocolate labs have a double coat with a wiry outer coat that helps it repel water.
The undercoat is thick and fluffy to keep them warm in cooler temperatures, so when the weather starts to change they start to shed that undercoat, which is typically twice in a year.
The amount of shedding from a Chocolate Lab varies with every pup. However, it can be expected to have moderate shedding year-round. Don’t worry though, it’s manageable! Keep reading to learn how.
Do Chocolate Labs Shed More or Less than Other Labs?
Chocolate labs are well known for being heavily shedding dogs, all Labradors have that reputation! I’ve had a Chocolate Lab, Black Lab and Yellow Lab and each one of them shed just as much as the other.
Experience with labs of all colors has taught me that some color fur shows up more than others.
For example, if you have a dark colored couch, Yellow Lab fur is going to show up more than Chocolate or Black Lab fur and vice versa!
Basically, you can color coordinate your furniture to your Lab color choice.
How to Manage Chocolate Lab Shedding?
Grooming is key with any dog, but especially high-shedding dogs like Chocolate Labs.
According to the American Kennel Club, Labs should be brushed weekly at least! It also helps to use a great de-shedding tool, such as a FURminator Brush.
Regular baths also can help with maintaining how much your Chocolate Lab sheds. There are many shedding shampoos out there that can help control it.
However, be careful with anti-shedding shampoos. Shedding is a natural feature of Chocolate Labs, which makes it an important part of their health.
Some shampoos can clog their pores and create skin problems, as well as prevent them from shedding the healthy amount of their fur as nature intended.
Make sure you consult with your vet before trying any new shampoos on your Chocolate pup.
Another great way to maintain shedding is investing in a good lint roller!
There are hundreds of them out there, but I personally prefer the Evercare Magik Brush because it creates less waste and you can reuse it over and over again!
A good vacuum is also going to keep the dog hair off your floors, and keep you from pulling out your own hair.
We use a Dyson cordless vacuum that works wonders, but there are many others that will do the job.
One last essential for keeping your home clean if you own a Chocolate Lab is a good slip cover for your furniture. This is a MUST have in my house.
Slip covers keep dog hair and messes off your furniture surfaces, and can be removed and washed very easy. It can also help protect from scratches from their nails so it’s a win-win!
Final Thoughts – Do Chocolate Labs Shed?
If you’re considering bringing home a Chocolate Lab, don’t let their shedding stop you. It’s completely manageable and they really are wonderful dogs.
However, you do need to take their shedding into consideration.
Pet hair can be a huge allergen irritant for you or your family members, so be aware of any allergies your family has before bringing home a Lab.
There are many other dog breeds that are hypoallergenic and don’t shed at all!
You can even get a mixed breed like a Labradoodle, which is a mix of a La and a Poodle. Labradoodles are hypoallergenic and don’t shed, and share much of the same temperament as Labs!
Hopefully this article helped you learn more about Chocolate Labs and their shedding.
My first dog as a kid was a Chocolate Lab named Hershey, and even though he shed like crazy he was the best dog I ever had! Happy pup parenting!