Shetland Sheepdog

Brushing Routine

Brush thoroughly 3-4 times per week using a pin brush followed by a slicker brush. Pay special attention to the thick mane, chest ruff, and leg feathering. Use a steel comb to finish and check for hidden mats close to the skin, especially behind the ears and in the armpit area.

Bathing Tips

Bathe every 4-6 weeks with a volumizing shampoo to maintain the coat's natural loft. Use a quality conditioner on the longer furnishings to ease brushing. Ensure the dense undercoat is fully dried with a forced-air dryer, as retained moisture leads to skin irritation and mildew odor.

Common Issues

• Severe matting behind ears, armpits, and rear legs
• Profuse seasonal shedding
• Dry skin from over-bathing
• Ear infections due to hair growing inside ear canal
• Static and flyaway coat in dry conditions

Extend Your Grooming Results

Use a light anti-static spray when brushing between grooms. Focus 2 minutes daily on the trouble spots: behind ears, collar area, and rear feathering. Keeping a small slicker brush by the door for quick post-walk sessions prevents outdoor debris from becoming tangled mats.

Seasonal Care

Shelties undergo a dramatic coat blow twice yearly, shedding the entire undercoat over 2-3 weeks. Daily raking with an undercoat tool is essential during this period. In Houston heat, ensure the undercoat is thinned professionally to allow airflow, but preserve the outer guard coat for UV and heat protection.

Maintenance Schedule

Brush 3-4 times weekly, daily during shedding. Professional groom every 4-6 weeks. Check and pluck ear hair monthly. Trim paw pads and sanitary trim every 3 weeks.