If you're the proud owner of an Australian Shepherd, you already know these dogs are as high-energy as they are stunning. With their bright eyes, agile bodies, and gorgeous double coats, Aussies have a way of turning heads wherever they go. But let's be honest: living with an Australian Shepherd often means living with much fur.
Whether those fluffy tufts decorating your couch or the constant sweep of fur around your floors, Aussie shedding can feel like a full-time job. But don’t worry — you're not alone! Shedding is a natural part of life for these beautiful dogs, and with a few expert tips from a groomer, you'll be well on your way to managing that fur overload without losing your sanity.
Understanding the Australian Shepherd Coat
Australian Shepherds are famous for their gorgeous double coat, a feature that gives them their signature fluffy and attractive appearance. But what does having a "double coat" really mean? It refers to the two distinct layers of fur that serve different purposes. The outer coat consists of longer, weather-resistant hairs that act like raincoats, shielding your dog from rain, snow, and dirt. Beneath that, a soft, dense undercoat provides insulation, keeping your dog warm in winter and cool in summer.
This double coat protects your Aussie from all kinds of weather conditions, whether scorching hot or freezing cold. However, it also means double the shedding! The outer coat sheds moderately year-round, but the real shedding challenge comes from the undercoat, which can release a lot of fur, especially during certain times of the year.
Understanding the structure and function of your Australian Shepherd’s coat is the first step in effectively managing shedding. Knowing when and why your Aussie will likely shed can help you stay ahead of the fur, keeping your home and dog in great shape. In the next section, we’ll dive into the different types of shedding and when to expect them to peak.
Shedding Seasons and Types
If it feels like your Australian Shepherd sheds more at certain times of the year, you're right! As with many double-coated breeds, Aussies experience what's known as "coat blowing" — an apt term for the incredible amount of fur that comes off during peak shedding periods.
Your Aussie will experience two main types of shedding: year-round and seasonal. Year-round shedding involves consistent, moderate hair shedding throughout the year due to the natural growth cycle. While it's usually manageable, you'll still find those tufts of fur on your clothes, furniture, and floors, regardless of the season.
Then, there's the main event: seasonal shedding. This happens twice a year, in spring and fall. In spring, your Aussie sheds their thicker winter coat to prepare for warmer temperatures. They lose their lighter summer coat in the fall to make way for a fuller, warmer one. During these times, the undercoat will "blow" out in full force — and it might feel like there’s enough fur to make a whole new dog!
Several factors can influence how much your Aussie sheds. Diet, overall health, climate, and living conditions all play a role. Dogs in warmer climates or those who spend more time indoors in air-conditioned or heated environments may shed more evenly year-round. Understanding these patterns will help you stay ahead of the shedding curve and adjust your grooming routine accordingly.
Brushing Techniques to Tame the Shed
Managing your Australian Shepherd’s shedding is all about using the right brushes correctly. Each tool has a specific role in grooming your Aussie’s double coat, and using them effectively can make a big difference in controlling that shedding. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to brushing your Aussie with each type of brush.
Slicker Brush: The First Line of Defense
The slicker brush removes loose fur, dirt, and small tangles from the topcoat. It’s the go-to tool for everyday grooming.
How to Use:
Step 1: Start by gently running the slicker brush over your dog’s coat, following the direction of the hair growth. Begin at the neck and work down the back, sides, and tail.
Step 2: Use light, short strokes to avoid pulling on the hair. Focus on areas that collect debris, like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar.
Step 3: If you encounter a small tangle, use the slicker brush to work through it gently. Before brushing, use your fingers or a de-matting tool to break them apart for larger mats.
Step 4: Reward your dog with treats or praise throughout the session to keep them calm and cooperative.
Undercoat Rake: Dig Deep to Remove Loose Fur
The undercoat rake is designed to reach the dense undercoat and pull out the dead, loose fur trapped beneath the topcoat.
How to Use:
Step 1: After using the slicker brush, switch to the undercoat rake. Hold the rake with a firm but gentle grip, and start at the base of the neck.
Step 2: Draw the rake through the coat toward hair growth. Use long, gentle strokes, applying light pressure to reach the undercoat without scratching the skin.
Step 3: Attention high-shedding areas like the chest, sides, and hindquarters. These spots tend to accumulate the most loose fur.
Step 4: Periodically stop to remove the collected hair from the rake’s teeth. This ensures the tool continues to work effectively.
Step 5: Repeat until the rake pulls out little to no loose fur. This might take a while during heavy shedding seasons, but it’s worth it!
De-Shedding Tool: The Final Touch for Shedding Control
The de-shedding tool removes the deepest loose undercoat fur and reduces overall shedding volume. It’s beneficial during seasonal shedding.
How to Use:
Step 1: With your Aussie calm and relaxed, hold the de-shedding tool at a 45-degree angle to your dog’s coat.
Step 2: Start at the top of the back and work your way down, using gentle, sweeping motions toward hair growth. Avoid going against the grain to prevent skin irritation.
Step 3: Focus on the high-shedding zones: the neck, chest, and rump. Be thorough but gentle, especially in sensitive areas like the belly and legs.
Step 4: Clear the tool of fur frequently to maintain its effectiveness. You might be surprised how much fur you collect, especially during the coat-blowing season!
Step 5: Finish with a few gentle strokes using the slicker brush to smooth the coat and remove any remaining loose hairs on the surface.
Rubber Brush: Gently Remove Loose Surface Hair
The rubber brush is a fantastic tool for gently removing loose surface hair, particularly on sensitive areas where other brushes might be too harsh. It’s excellent for short grooming sessions and works well for dogs nervous about brushing.
How to Use:
Step 1: Start with a dry coat, as the rubber brush works best when your dog’s fur is dry. Hold the brush in one hand and use your other hand to steady your dog gently.
Step 2: Always brush in the direction of the hair growth. Begin at the head and work your way down to the tail, using gentle, sweeping strokes. The rubber bristles will grip onto loose fur and pull it away from the coat's surface.
Step 3: Focus on areas that collect the most loose hair, such as the back, sides, and under the chest. Because the rubber brush is gentle and great for sensitive areas like the legs, belly, and tail.
Step 4: Use light pressure and keep the strokes smooth and steady to avoid irritating the skin. The rubber material captures loose fur and helps distribute natural oils, giving the coat a healthy shine.
Step 5: After each stroke, clear the brush of collected hair to maintain its effectiveness.
Metal Comb: Finishing Touch for a Flawless Coat
Purpose: The metal comb is perfect for the finishing touches, helping to remove any remaining loose fur, debris, and small tangles after using other brushes. It’s an excellent tool for reaching deep into the coat and ensuring a smooth, tangle-free finish.
How to Use:
Step 1: After brushing with a slicker brush or undercoat rake, use the metal comb to gently go through your dog’s coat, starting from the head and working toward the tail. The metal comb helps catch loose fur that other tools might have missed.
Step 2: Begin with the wider-spaced teeth to work through any remaining tangles or mats, especially in areas like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the neck.
Step 3: Once you've cleared the tangles, switch to the finer teeth to smooth the coat and remove any final bits of loose hair. This also helps reach down to the undercoat, ensuring a thorough groom.
Step 4: Use light, careful strokes to avoid pulling on the hair or irritating the skin. For the best results, keep the comb at a slight angle and work in the direction of hair growth.
Step 5: Regularly check the comb for any hair or debris build-up and remove it to maintain effectiveness throughout the grooming session.
The metal comb is a great final step to ensure your Australian Shepherd’s coat is free from mats, tangles, and any leftover loose fur, leaving it sleek, smooth, and healthy-looking.
Velocity Dryer: The Ultimate Shedding Solution for Those with the Budget and Space
The velocity dryer is a powerful tool that blows out loose fur, dirt, and dander deep within the coat. It’s an excellent investment for owners who want to reduce shedding dramatically, especially during heavy shedding seasons.
How to Use:
Step 1: Set up the dryer in a comfortable, well-ventilated area. If your dog is new to the dryer, introduce it slowly by letting them hear the sound and feel the airflow at a distance.
Step 2: Start with the dryer on the lowest speed and hold it at a distance from your dog's coat. Gradually bring the dryer closer and adjust to a medium speed. Always keep the nozzle moving to prevent overheating in any one spot.
Step 3: Move in the direction of the hair growth, starting from the back and moving towards the head. Use the dryer to blow out loose hair from the undercoat, focusing on areas like the chest, sides, and hindquarters where fur accumulates.
Step 4: Adjust the settings to a comfortable level for your dog. Use a cool setting to avoid drying the skin or damaging the coat. Keep a safe distance; never use the dryer directly on sensitive areas like the face or ears.
Step 5: After drying, use a slicker brush or undercoat rake to remove loose fur loosened by the airflow.
A velocity dryer is an excellent option for Australian Shepherd owners who are serious about reducing shedding. While it requires an initial investment and some space, the benefits of quicker drying times and a significant reduction in loose fur make it a worthwhile addition to your grooming arsenal.
With these tools, you can tackle Aussie shedding from every angle. Next, we’ll explore how the proper bathing routine can complement these brushing techniques to keep your dog’s coat in top condition!
Bathing Tips to Reduce Shedding
Bathing your Australian Shepherd is more than just a chance to get them clean — it’s also a crucial step in managing shedding. The right bathing routine can help loosen and remove dead fur, reduce dander, and keep your dog’s coat healthy and shiny. Here’s how to make bath time work for you in the battle against shedding.
1. Choose the Right Shampoo
Not all shampoos are created equal, especially for double-coated breeds like Australian Shepherds. Look for a gentle dog shampoo to support skin and coat health. Shampoos with natural ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, or chamomile can help soothe the skin and prevent irritation, which can sometimes lead to excessive shedding.
We highly recommend the FURminator deShedding Kit for Australian Shepherds. It combines a deshedding shampoo, conditioner, and waterless spray to effectively reduce loose fur and maintain a healthy coat. This set is perfect for tackling shedding at home between professional grooming sessions, keeping your Aussie looking and feeling its best.
2. Pre-Bath Brushing is Key
Before you even start the bath, take a few minutes to give your Aussie a good brush with a slicker brush or undercoat rake. This step helps remove any loose fur, dirt, and debris that could get trapped in the coat during washing. A pre-bath brush can also make the bath more effective by allowing the shampoo to penetrate the coat more evenly.
3. Bathing Frequency: Less is More
Australian Shepherds generally don’t need to be bathed too often—once every 4 to 6 weeks is usually sufficient, but this can vary depending on your dog’s activity level and environment. Over-bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils, leading to dry skin and potentially more shedding. Stick to a regular but not excessive bathing schedule to keep their coat in optimal condition.
4. Proper Washing Technique
Step 1: Use lukewarm water to wet your dog’s coat thoroughly. Start at the back and work towards the head, avoiding the eyes and ears.
Step 2: Apply the shampoo in sections, starting from the back and moving towards the head. Gently massage the shampoo into the coat, ensuring you reach the undercoat, especially during shedding seasons.
Step 3: Let the shampoo sit for a few minutes to effectively break down oils and dirt. Use this time to give your dog a calming massage to help them relax.
Step 4: Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, ensuring all the shampoo is washed out. Any leftover residue can cause skin irritation and increase shedding.
5. Drying: Make It Count
After the bath, towel dry your dog as much as possible to remove excess water. Then, use your velocity dryer (if you have one) to finish the drying process. Start with a low speed and gradually increase as your dog gets comfortable. The velocity dryer will blow out loose fur, leaving your Aussie’s coat fluffy and clean.
6. Follow Up with a Brushing Session
Once your dog is dry, follow up with a final brushing session using a slicker brush or de-shedding tool. Bathing often loosens up fur ready to shed, so this last step will help you catch any remaining loose hairs and keep them from ending up all over your home.
Incorporating these bathing tips into your grooming routine will help manage your Australian Shepherd’s shedding more effectively while keeping their coat healthy and vibrant.
Additional Groomer Tips to Manage Shedding
Beyond regular brushing and bathing, you can use several other strategies to control your Australian Shepherd’s shedding. From dietary choices to professional grooming, these additional tips will help you tackle shedding from all angles.
1. Optimize Your Dog’s Diet
A healthy coat starts from the inside out, and diet is crucial to how much your Aussie sheds. Ensure your dog eats high-quality food rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, essential for maintaining skin and coat health. Look for ingredients like fish oil, flaxseed, and high-quality protein sources. You can also consider adding supplements like fish oil or omega-3 capsules, but consult your veterinarian before changing your dog’s diet.
2. Keep Your Dog Hydrated
Hydration is another crucial factor in managing shedding. Dehydrated skin can become dry and flaky, leading to increased shedding. Always provide fresh, clean water and encourage your dog to drink regularly. You can also add a bit of low-sodium chicken broth to their water to make it more enticing, especially on hot days or after intense exercise.
3. Schedule Regular Professional Grooming Sessions
While at-home grooming is essential, professional grooming sessions can provide extra care that helps reduce shedding. Professional groomers have specialized tools and techniques, like blow-out sessions with high-powered dryers and coat conditioning treatments, that can significantly reduce the amount of loose fur. They can also spot early signs of skin conditions or health issues that might contribute to excess shedding.
Consider scheduling a professional grooming appointment every 6-8 weeks, especially during peak shedding seasons. This will help manage your dog’s coat and give you a break from constant fur cleanup!
4. Create a Consistent Grooming Routine
Consistency is key to managing shedding. Develop and stick to a regular grooming routine that includes brushing, bathing, and professional grooming. Set aside specific days for each task—for example, brushing every other day and bathing every 4-6 weeks. Maintaining a consistent schedule will help minimize shedding and keep your dog’s coat in great shape year-round.
5. Use Shedding Control Tools and Accessories
If you’re serious about reducing shedding, consider adding additional shedding control tools, such as pet hair removers, lint rollers, and grooming gloves. These accessories can help you quickly clean loose fur from your clothes, furniture, and car. You might also find keeping a small handheld vacuum nearby for easy clean-up after grooming sessions is helpful.
6. Keep Your Home Fur-Free with Regular Cleaning
Even with the best grooming routine, some fur will always enter your home. Regular cleaning is essential to keep your living space fur-free. Use a vacuum with a pet hair attachment and microfiber cloths for surfaces, and wash your dog’s bedding and blankets weekly. Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters to help capture airborne pet dander and fur.
Following these additional tips, you can effectively manage your Australian Shepherd’s shedding and enjoy a cleaner, fur-free home. Extra effort goes a long way in keeping your dog’s coat healthy and your living space tidy.
Now, you’re armed with all the tools and knowledge to tackle shedding like a pro! Embrace your Aussie’s beautiful coat, and enjoy the bond grooming brings between you and your furry friend.
Dealing with an Australian Shepherd’s shedding might feel like a never-ending battle, but with the right techniques, tools, and patience, you can keep the fur flurries under control. Remember, shedding is a natural and healthy process for your Aussie — it’s their way of adapting to the changing seasons and staying comfortable year-round.
By understanding their unique double coat, using the right brushes and bathing methods, incorporating additional grooming tools like a velocity dryer or rubber brush, and maintaining a healthy diet, you’re well on your way to a cleaner home and a healthier dog.
Consistency is key. Make grooming a routine to minimize shedding and strengthen your bond with your furry friend. Embrace the time spent brushing and bathing to connect with your Aussie and keep them looking and feeling their best.
And if you ever feel overwhelmed, remember that professional grooming services are just a booking away. Our team is always here to help you manage shedding with expert care, so don’t hesitate to reach out for a little extra support.
With these tips, you can confidently take on the shedding season. Here’s to a well-groomed, fabulous-looking Aussie — and much less fur on your clothes and furniture!
