Twice a year, every double-coated dog in the GTA turns your home into a fur-based snow globe. It’s called “blowing coat,” it’s completely normal, and the timing is predictable enough to plan around. Here’s PawBasic’s guide to shedding season in Mississauga — and when to book the de-shed that actually fixes it.
The Two Blowouts
Fall (September–October): the light summer undercoat drops to make room for the dense winter coat. It’s the season we’re heading into now — and it catches owners off guard because people expect shedding in spring, not September.
Spring (April–June): the big one. The winter undercoat releases in handfuls, tumbleweeds form behind furniture, and every groomer in the GTA books solid.
Which Dogs Blow Coat
Huskies, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Corgis, Samoyeds, Malamutes, Bernese, Shibas, and every mix descended from them. Single-coated breeds (Poodles, Yorkies, most Doodles) don’t blow coat — they mat instead, which is its own newsletter.
What a Professional De-Shed Actually Does
A de-shed isn’t a haircut. It’s a system: undercoat-releasing bath, conditioner, and a high-velocity dryer that pushes dead undercoat out by the grocery bag, followed by line-brushing to the skin. One session removes what home brushing would take weeks to reach — and what it removes at the salon doesn’t end up on your couch.
The Timing Play
Book at the start of the blow, not the end: mid-September for fall, late April for spring. One de-shed at the start plus twice-weekly home brushing usually carries you through the season. Book ahead — blowout season fills our calendar fastest.
FAQs
Can I just shave my dog instead?
Please don’t — shaving a double coat damages it and doesn’t reduce shedding. De-shedding removes only the dead coat.
How long does a de-shed appointment take?
Usually 2–3 hours depending on size and coat density.
My dog sheds all year — is that normal?
Light year-round shedding is normal indoors. Sudden heavy shedding outside season, bald patches, or irritated skin — check with your vet.
Beat the Fall Rush
The September blow is starting. PawBasic, 35 King St E Unit 12, Cooksville, Mississauga. Book your de-shed online or call (647) 646-4729.