Australian Shepherd Grooming & Deshedding Guide

Australian Shepherds have a medium-length double coat that sheds year-round and heavily twice a year. They don't need haircuts, but they need regular brushing and professional deshedding to stay healthy.

How often

A professional bath and deshedding every 6–8 weeks, with extra sessions during spring and fall shedding. Brush at home 2–3 times a week to manage loose coat and feathering.

Typical cost

Expect $65–$100 for a bath, blow-out, deshedding, tidy, and nails. Price depends on coat thickness and how much undercoat needs to come out.

Don't shave the double coat

Their double coat regulates temperature and protects the skin. Shaving it can lead to patchy regrowth and remove natural sun protection. Deshedding and tidying — not clipping — is the right approach.

Owner tips

Use an undercoat rake and slicker brush, paying attention to the feathering on the legs and the "pants" on the rear, where mats form. A high-velocity dryer session at the groomer during shedding season removes a huge amount of loose coat at once.

Find a deshedding-focused groomer

Look for groomers with strong reviews for double-coated herding breeds in your city — start with the listings near you.

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