Do Australian Shepherds Have Hair or Fur?
Australian Shepherds, commonly known as Aussies, are beautiful dogs known for their stunning coats, which require proper care to keep them in top shape. But do Australian Shepherds shed? Well, they have a double coat composed of both guard hairs and an insulating undercoat.
This article answers your question as well as provides valuable tips and insights on maintaining your Aussie’s coat, ensuring it remains healthy, shiny, and free from tangles or mats.
Do Australian Shepherds Shed (a Lot)?
Yes, since they have long fur, they do shed a lot. As a double-coated breed, they are moderate to heavy shedders, especially during Australian Shepherd shedding seasons. Their coat consists of a dense undercoat and a longer, weather-resistant outer coat, contributing to their heavy shedding tendencies.
When do Australian Shepherds Shed?
Australian Shepherds experience a natural process called “blowing their coat.” This shedding phase involves significant fur loss as the dog prepares for new coat growth. Knowing when Australian Shepherds blow their coat can help you better understand their grooming needs and plan for managing their shedding effectively.
Australian Shepherds blow their coats twice a year, usually during seasonal changes. The shedding is more pronounced during the spring and fall as the body adapts to the changing temperatures. This is also known as a “seasonal shed.” During these times, you can expect to see more loose fur coming off your dog.
Spring Shedding
As the weather starts to warm up and the days get longer, Australian Shepherds shed their thicker winter coats in preparation for the upcoming summer. The shedding process helps them adapt to the rising temperatures, allowing their new coat to be lighter and more comfortable for the warmer months.
Fall Shedding
When the weather begins to cool down and daylight hours shorten, Australian Shepherds blow their coats again. This fall shedding helps them grow a thicker, insulating layer to protect them from colder weather during winter.
How to Deal With Australian Shepherd Shedding Problems
Dealing with Australian Shepherd shedding can be challenging, but with the right strategies and consistent grooming practices, you can manage shedding problems effectively. Here are some tips to help you deal with Aussie dog shed tendencies:
- Regular brushing: Regularly brush your Australian Shepherd’s coat to remove loose fur and prevent matting. Use a deshedding tool or slicker brush to reach the undercoat and remove the loose hair. Aim to brush your dog at least two to three times a week or more frequently during shedding seasons.
- Bathing and shampooing: Regular bathing can help remove loose fur and clean the coat. Use a high-quality dog shampoo appropriate for your dog’s skin type. Avoid over-bathing, as it can strip the coat of essential oils and potentially lead to more shedding. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best bathing schedule for your Australian Shepherd.
- Healthy diet: Provide your Australian Shepherd with a balanced and nutritious diet. High-quality dog food that contains essential nutrients such as protein and vitamins can promote a healthy coat. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations based on your dog’s age, size, and activity level.
- Supplements: Add supplements like omega-3 fatty acids to your dog’s diet. These supplements can help improve coat health and reduce excessive shedding. Consult your veterinarian before starting your Aussie on any supplements.
- Controlled environment: Keep your home clean and minimize the amount of loose fur that accumulates. Regularly vacuum or sweep the floors and use furniture covers or blankets to protect your furniture from fur. Consider designating certain areas of your home as “dog-free zones” to limit fur accumulation.
- Professional grooming: Schedule regular appointments with a professional groomer with experience handling double-coated breeds. They can help with techniques such as thinning the coat and removing excess fur, which can reduce shedding.
- Manage stress: Stress can contribute to excessive shedding in dogs. Provide a calm and stress-free environment for your Australian Shepherd, ensuring they receive regular exercise, mental stimulation, and plenty of love and attention.
- Consult a veterinarian: If you notice a sudden increase in shedding or your dog’s coat appears dull or unhealthy, consult your vet. They can eliminate any underlying health issues causing excessive shedding.
Is a Shaved Australian Shepherd a Good Thing?
As an Australian Shepherd parent, you may wonder whether shaving your dog’s coat is a good idea, especially during the hot summer months. It is important to understand that shaving an Australian Shepherd is generally not recommended and can negatively affect their overall well-being.
Here are some reasons why shaving an Australian Shepherd is not considered a good thing:
Coat Protection
The Australian Shepherd’s double coat provides natural insulation and protection against hot and cold weather. Shaving the coat removes this protective layer, leaving your dog vulnerable to sunburn, skin irritation, and insect bites.
Natural Cooling Mechanism
The Australian Shepherd’s double coat helps regulate body temperature by trapping air close to the skin, providing insulation against heat and cold. Shaving the coat interferes with this natural cooling mechanism, making it harder for your dog to stay cool in hot weather.
Coat Re-Growth
Shaving your Australian Shepherd’s coat may not grow back the same as before. The new coat growth can be uneven, patchy, or even a different texture than the original coat. This can affect the dog’s appearance and may require significant time for the fur to grow fully.
Coat Maintenance
While an Australian Shepherd’s coat may seem thick and heavy, it helps to regulate the dog’s body temperature and repel dirt and debris. The coat naturally repels water and self-cleans to some extent. Shaving the coat removes these natural benefits, making it more challenging to maintain its cleanliness and condition.
Increased Risk of Skin Issues
Shaving an Australian Shepherd’s coat can increase the risk of skin problems such as hot spots and skin infections. Without the protection of their natural coat, the dog’s skin gets exposed to various environmental elements that can cause irritation and discomfort.
It is important to consult a professional groomer or your veterinarian for specific grooming advice tailored to your Australian Shepherd’s needs. They can guide you on proper coat care and recommend the best practices to keep your dog comfortable without resorting to shaving.
Skin Issues Associated With This Breed
Australian Shepherds are generally healthy but prone to specific skin issues like other dog breeds. Awareness of these skin problems can help you take proactive measures and seek veterinary care when necessary. Here are some common skin issues associated with Australian Shepherds:
Allergies
Australian Shepherds can develop allergies, including food allergies, environmental allergies (like pollen or dust mites), or contact allergies (such as certain cleaning products or fabrics). Allergies often manifest as itching, redness, skin irritation, rashes, and hair loss.
If you notice your Australian Shepherd excessively scratching or showing signs of discomfort, consult with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment options.
Hot Spots
Hot spots, sometimes called acute moist dermatitis, are inflamed and infected skin areas. They typically appear as red, watery, and painful lesions. Australian Shepherds are susceptible to hot spots due to their dense coat and potential underlying allergies or skin irritations.
Dry Skin
Australian Shepherds can experience dry and flaky skin, especially during dry weather or exposure to environmental factors like low humidity or harsh shampoos. Dry skin may cause itchiness and discomfort for your dog.
Ensuring proper hydration, using moisturizing shampoos formulated for dogs, and incorporating supplements into their diet can help alleviate dry skin issues.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis is the inflammation of hair follicles brought on by bacterial or fungal infections. Australian Shepherds may develop folliculitis due to their dense coat, especially if you do not dry their skin adequately after bathing or swimming. Symptoms include redness, pimples, and hair loss around the affected areas.
Mange
Mange is a skin condition brought by mites that infest the dog’s skin, leading to intense itching, hair loss, redness, and scaly patches. Demodectic mange and Sarcoptic mange are the two most common types in Australian Shepherds.
Tips for Keeping Your Aussie’s Coat in Top Shape
Understanding Your Aussie’s Coat
To effectively care for your Aussie’s coat, it is essential to understand its unique characteristics. Aussies have a double coat consisting of a dense undercoat and a longer, weather-resistant outer coat.
This double coat helps protect them from extreme weather conditions. However, it also means their coat requires regular maintenance to keep it healthy and tangle-free.
Bathing and Drying Techniques
It would be best to bathe your Aussie as needed, typically every six to eight weeks or when they become dirty or smelly. Use a high-quality dog shampoo and rinse the coat thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
After bathing, gently towel dry your dog or use a blow dryer on low heat to avoid damaging the coat.
Dealing with Shedding
Regular brushing helps minimize shedding by removing loose fur or hair before it ends up on your furniture or clothes. Consider using a deshedding tool during shedding seasons to remove the undercoat effectively.
Additionally, ensure your dog’s diet is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce excessive shedding.
Trimming and Grooming
Trimming your Aussie’s coat, particularly around the ears, paws, and tail, can help maintain cleanliness and prevent mats. Use sharp, dog-specific trimming scissors and take extra care not to cut the skin. If you’re unsure about trimming, seek the assistance of a professional groomer who can provide expert guidance.
Protecting the Coat from External Factors
Your Aussie’s coat can get affected by various external factors, such as sunlight, moisture, and harsh chemicals. Limit their exposure to direct sunlight for longer periods, as it can lead to sunburn or faded coat color.
Recap
In conclusion, Australian Shepherd shedding typically occurs twice a year during seasonal changes. The shedding is heavy during the spring and fall as they prepare for the upcoming temperature changes. During these shedding periods, you can expect to see a lot of loose fur coming off your dog.
If you are considering getting an Australian Shepherd as a pet, remember that they require consistent grooming and shedding management. However, their loving and intelligent nature, combined with their stunning appearance, often make them beloved companions for families and individuals who are willing to put in the effort to care for their coats properly.
Although you cannot completely eliminate your Aussie’s shedding, maintaining a regular grooming routine can help minimize the impact of shedding. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and a stress-free environment contribute to overall coat health and can reduce excessive shedding.