FAQs

How do you put on and take off the Shed Defender?

The Shed Defender is simple to put on and take off! To put on, just put the head through the neck sleeve, making sure the zipper is on the belly side. Insert the front legs, the back legs, and then zip it up. The zipper should run from the chest to the tail, and the dog should be fully covered except for the head, tail and paws. It’s meant to fit snug, so just take care when zipping up! 

To take it off, start by unzipping and then take the back legs out. Next, just pull over the head and take the front legs out. We recommend taking it off outside so you can shake out the loose hair.

Check out the demo video on the Shed Defender homepage for an example of how to put it on! Contact us at support@sheddefender.com with any questions. Please note that if the fit is not snug – the Shed Defender can become a tripping hazard for your pet. There is more information on our sizing chart and our disclaimer here. 

What size should I get?

We have a sizing chart specific to our product that should be used to determine the size you should purchase. Feel free to email support@sheddefender.com for any questions regarding sizing.

Our sizes are different from other pet products so please look carefully at our sizing guide.

Does it fit all dogs?

The Shed Defender comes in nine sizes and does fit most dogs. However, there are a few breeds that are a difficult fit including bulldogs, pugs, corgis, dachshunds and basset hounds.

Please note that the Shed defender was designed for dogs. If you intend to use it for another animal please consult your veterinarian.

Please email support@sheddefender.com if you have any specific questions.

How should the Shed Defender fit?

The Shed Defender is meant to fit snugly around the dog to maximize comfort and ensure it stays on. The fabric is ultra-stretchy, so it won’t restrict mobility. We recommend supervising the dog while wearing the Shed Defender for the first few times to ensure the garment fits properly and there are no adverse reactions.  If your dog shows any signs of distress, remove the Shed Defender right away.

The most common sizing issue is when the Shed Defender is too long and baggy in the back end which results in the back legs coming out of the sleeves. If it looks as though the back legs could come out, you will need a smaller size. Please visit here for exchanges. It is designed to fit tightly around the groin area, so just take care when zipping and unzipping. The snug fit prevents the suit from sagging down around the back legs and keeps the back legs in their sleeves.

Alternatively, if the dog seems unwilling or unable to move, it may be too small. Most dogs don’t mind wearing the garment, but occasionally some dogs may need to warm up to the idea of wearing the Shed Defender. You may need to use treats to create a positive association or take the dog for a walk to help the dog become accustomed to the new garment. If this doesn’t work, you may need to exchange for a larger size.

If the legs are too long and cover the paws, feel free to hem or cut the legs (the fabric won’t run), but just note that you will be unable to return the product if it’s been altered.

How long can I leave the Shed Defender on my dog?

The Shed Defender is not meant for permanent or prolonged use. When first used, we recommend supervising the dog during a trial period to ensure it fits properly. We don’t recommend the Shed Defender be worn for more than eight (8) continuous hours unless advised otherwise by your veterinarian and it should always be kept clean. We recommend adhering to all proper grooming standards for your dog.

The Shed Defender is great for car rides, visits with your dog to family and friends houses or anywhere else you don’t want dog hair.

How does the dog go to the bathroom while wearing the Shed Defender?

Just partially unzip when the dog is ready to use the bathroom or is outside and they’re free to go potty while still wearing the suit.

What material is it made out of?

The Shed Defender is made from a premium, eco-friendly polyester and spandex blend that is lightweight and breathable to ensure the dog stays cool and comfortable. It is a four-way stretch fabric, allowing the dog to move freely and is durable enough to handle everyday use.

How do I wash it?

Simply turn the Shed Defender® inside out and throw it in the wash. The Shed Defender is machine washable and dryable, and does not shrink. Wash with like colors, tumble dry low.

When will I receive my Shed Defender?

For all U.S. orders, please allow 1-2 business days to process and ship the order and then 2-4 business days for shipping.

For international orders, please allow 1-2 business days to process the order. Shipping times vary and while it typically takes 8-15 business days, it can take up to 20 business days to arrive depending on the destination.

How much is shipping?

Free shipping on US orders via USPS 

International orders are shipped via DHL or USPS for a flat rate of $9.99 - $14.99 USD.

Can I exchange or return it?

Yes, we offer returns and exchanges for all orders within 30 days of when the product was delivered as long as the product is undamaged, clean, and has not been altered or modified. If purchased through another retailer, please contact that retailer directly.

U.S. Orders: If purchased through the Shed Defender website, you can process the exchange or return here. We offer free return and exchange shipping for all U.S. orders.

In order for us to complete the return or exchange, the returned product must be in the same condition as when it was received (new condition) which means free of any dog hair, stains or tears. If the product received is not clean, we will charge a $5 cleaning fee. To avoid the cleaning fee, please turn it inside out and wash it.

How to Return/Exchange:

Please visit our return page here where you will be prompted to enter your order number and zip code.Your order number is in the confirmation email and is also the last 6 digits of the Reference Number on your original packing slip. Once entered, you will be emailed a pre-paid shipping label which can be used to return the product to us. Please do not ship the product to the return address in Henderson, NV on the original package. You can include a note in the package or email support@sheddefender.com to let us know whether you are returning or exchanging the product and what size you’d like to switch to.

Please allow 3-5 business days for processing returns for refunds or exchanges.  After processing, credits will be issued and exchanges will be shipped out with email notifications.

Please note that we only allow one exchange. If the new item doesn’t fit, you are welcome to return it for a full refund, but we cannot ship a third item.

International Orders: All orders outside the U.S. are required to pay for return shipping on all returns and exchanges. Please email support@sheddefender.com and we will provide instructions on how to return or exchange your product. You will receive a full refund for all returned items in new condition. If the product received is not clean, we will charge a $5 cleaning fee. To avoid the cleaning fee, please turn it inside out and wash it.

Is it safe for the dog?

When used correctly with the proper fit and supervision, the Shed Defender is safe for your dog. We do not recommend the Shed Defender be worn for more than eight (8) continuous hours.

The Shed Defender is veterinarian approved for many uses, but you should consult your veterinarian when using it for medical purposes. For dogs with skin conditions, please consult with your veterinarian for the best way to use Shed Defender.

Dogs with aggressive chewing habits should be monitored to avoid choking hazards. The Shed Defender does provide some UV protection for your dog. Overheating is always a risk for dogs especially dogs with breathing problems. The light pressure of the Shed Defender may help with anxiety in some pets.  Do not leave your pet exposed to the heat (heat source, sun, enclosed vehicle or outdoors without shade) while wearing the Shed Defender.

Please see our full disclaimer here

Does the product offer UV protection?

Yes, the fabric is a tight knit spandex and polyester jersey that blocks most UV rays. Please note that we don’t recommend that a dog wear the Shed Defender in warm temperatures unless supervised by an adult. Please always protect your dog from overheating. 

Can I use the Shed Defender in warm temperatures?

While the fabric is lightweight is breathable, it should not be worn in warm temperatures. Please monitor your dog for any signs of overheating such as heavy panting or tongue hanging out of the mouth. Remove the Shed Defender if you see any signs of overheating or distress.

What is the manufacturer warranty?

Our warranty covers any manufacturing defects such as zipper malfunction. Please email support@sheddefender.com if you have any specific questions.

Can I use this to replace the medical cone?

In some cases, the Shed Defender can be used as an alternative to the bulky and cumbersome medical cone. It can cover hotspots or surgical sites or help dogs with skin conditions acting as a comfortable alternative to the medical cone. Please consult your veterinarian before using the Shed Defender to replace the medical cone.

Does this help with allergies?

For humans who are allergic to dog hair and dander, the Shed Defender can dramatically reduce the amount of dog hair and dander that is spread in the house, car or other areas. It doesn’t eliminate allergies because the head, tail and paws are still exposed, but it does dramatically reduce the spread of allergens in most situations. 

For dogs that have environmental allergies, it can provide protection from exposure to allergens.