Australian Shepherd

Brushing Routine

Brush 2-3 times per week with an undercoat rake to manage the medium-length double coat. Follow with a slicker brush to smooth the outer coat and address tangles in the mane, feathering, and pants. Use a comb through the ear feathering and behind-the-ear areas where mats hide.

Bathing Tips

Bathe every 6-8 weeks using a de-shedding shampoo and conditioner to release dead undercoat. Aussies have a naturally dirt-resistant coat that cleans itself fairly well between baths. Dry thoroughly with a high-velocity dryer, paying attention to the dense chest ruff and hind leg feathering.

Common Issues

• Moderate to heavy seasonal shedding
• Matting behind ears and in the mane ruff
• Burrs, stickers, and debris tangled in feathering after outdoor activity
• Sensitive skin under the dense coat
• Hind leg feathering that collects dirt and fecal matter

Extend Your Grooming Results

After outdoor adventures, do a quick comb-through of the belly, legs, and tail to remove debris before it sets into mats. Keep the sanitary area and hind leg feathering trimmed for hygiene. A de-shedding spray before brushing sessions helps release more undercoat. The natural coat oils will keep the outer coat looking good between baths.

Seasonal Care

Australian Shepherds blow their undercoat in spring and fall. Increase brushing to daily during these periods. In Houston summers, thorough undercoat removal is critical for heat management. Never shave this breed, as the double coat provides sun protection and temperature regulation. Winter coat fills in naturally.

Maintenance Schedule

Professional grooming every 8-10 weeks with de-shedding treatment. Brush 2-3 times weekly, daily during shedding season. Ear cleaning biweekly. Nail trims every 3-4 weeks. Sanitary trim every 4-6 weeks.