Australian Shepherd

All dogs shed, some a little and some a lot. Australian Shepherds shed a fair amount, thanks to their double coats. The perception of how much a dog sheds typically related to how much fur ends up on clothing, furniture and carpets. Double-coated dogs are the biggest shedders, losing fur from both the downy undercoat and the protective overcoat.

We know to layer clothing in cold weather to keep us warmer. Breeds or mixes of breeds from colder parts of the world come with “layers” built in and called a double coat. Typically these coats combine a short, downy undercoat with an outer coat that helps to keep the insulating layer from getting wet. Double-coated dogs usually “blow coat” in the spring and again in the fall, with the undercoat shedding out for summer or for growing a new undercoat for winter. Double-coated dogs need to be combed and brushed down to the skin to prevent the undercoat from matting into a solid, felt-like mass that may have to be shaved off completely.

The best way to manage your Australian Shepherd's shedding is to proactive about it: Brush and comb your Aussie down to the skin a couple of times a week, and use a shedding rake to pull out any loose fur. In spring and fall, a warm bath can speed up the seasonal shed. Always remember to remove any mats before bathing. Many groomers use high-velocity pet dryers, but if you don't have one, you can towel-dry your pet (outside if it's warm) or use a hair dryer on the lowest heat setting to further get rid of loose fur. If the job is too daunting, make an appointment with a groomer.