FW: Dog Hair Uses

[Sarah Calhoun]

Sharing from another list.

 

Best,

Sarah

 

From: Denny Huff <gateway...@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, April 23, 2026 7:55 PM
To: Denny Huff <gateway...@gmail.com>
Subject: Dog Hair Uses

 

Are there any uses for dog hair?

Yes, surprisingly, dog hair can actually be useful. It’s not just waste. Here are the most practical ways people use it:

1. Natural fertilizer
   Dog hair breaks down slowly and adds nitrogen to soil. You can:

• Mix it into compost
• Bury small amounts in garden soil
• Use it around plants as a slow-release nutrient

Just avoid large clumps, as they can mat and block water.

2. Pest deterrent
   The scent of dog hair can keep certain animals away.

• Scatter it around gardens to deter deer, rabbits, and squirrels
• Works best when refreshed regularly

3. Bird nesting material
   Birds often collect soft fibers for nests.

• Put small amounts outside in spring
• Don’t use chemically treated or flea-medicated hair

4. Oil spill absorption (less common at home)
   Dog hair absorbs oil well.

• It’s been used in environmental cleanups
• At home, it can soak up greasy spills in a pinch

5. Crafting and yarn (if you’re adventurous)
   Dog hair can be spun into yarn, sometimes called “chiengora.”

• Can be knitted into hats, mittens, or scarves
• Works best with long-haired breeds

6. Stuffing material
   Cleaned dog hair can be used for:

• Pet beds
• Pillows (less common, but doable)

What I would NOT recommend:

• Don’t burn it indoors (smells strong and unpleasant)
• Don’t leave large piles in your yard (can clog drainage or attract pests)

If shedding is heavy, it may also be seasonal (spring/fall coat change), but excessive shedding can sometimes point to diet or health issues. If it seems unusual, a quick check with your vet is a good idea.

 

 

__________________________________________

 

DENNY HUFF

PO BOX 515

ST. CLAIR, MO  63077

 

Cell: (636) 428-1500

FAX: (314) 558-0298

 

mail: Gateway

Go to Gateway

 

THE GATEWAY TO INDEPENDENCE

 

[Heidi Vandewinckel]

Very interesting!

I had a particular dog that shed so much no matter how much I grown. I was saving up his dog here just to see how much I could get in the plastic bag. I would if there’s enough here for a sweater.

Fondly,

Heidi

On Apr 24, 2026, at 9:49 AM, Sarah Calhoun <sc-...@att.net> wrote:



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DENNY HUFF

PO BOX 515

ST. CLAIR, MO  63077

 

Cell: (636) 428-1500

FAX: (314) 558-0298

 

mail: Gateway

Go to Gateway

 

THE GATEWAY TO INDEPENDENCE

 

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