If you have a shaved Australian Shepherd, you may wonder if shaving their coat is a good idea. Some people think that shaving can help their dogs stay cool in the summer, prevent matting, or reduce shedding. However, shaved Australian Shepherd can have some negative consequences as well. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of shaving a shaved Australian Shepherd, and what alternatives you can consider.
Pros of Shaved Australian Shepherd
One of the possible benefits of shaved Australian Shepherds is that it can make them more comfortable in hot weather. Australian Shepherds have a double coat, which means they have a dense undercoat and a longer outer coat. The double jacket helps them regulate their body temperature and protects them from the sun, wind, and rain. However, some owners may think that the double coat makes their dogs too hot in the summer and that shaving can help them cool down.
Another possible benefit of shaved Australian Shepherd is that it can prevent matting. Matting occurs when the hair becomes tangled and forms clumps that are hard to brush out. Matting can cause skin irritation, infection, and pain for the dog. Shaving can prevent matting by removing the excess hair that can get tangled.
A third possible benefit of shaved Australian Shepherd is that it can reduce shedding. Australian Shepherds shed moderately throughout the year, and more heavily during spring and fall when they blow their undercoat. Shaving can reduce the amount of hair that falls off the dog and onto your furniture, clothes, and floors.
Cons of Shaved Australian Shepherd
However, shaving an Australian Shepherd also has some drawbacks that you should be aware of. One of the major drawbacks is that it can damage their coat and skin. Shaving can remove the protective layer of the double coat, which can make the dog more vulnerable to sunburn, insect bites, allergies, and infections. Shaving can also alter the texture and colour of the coat, making it more coarse, dull, or patchy. Some dogs may never grow back to their original coat after shaving.
Another drawback of shaving an Australian Shepherd is that it can affect their appearance and personality. Australian Shepherds are known for their beautiful and distinctive coats, which come in various colours and patterns. Shaving can make them look less like themselves and lose some of their charm. Shaving can also make them feel insecure or uncomfortable, as they may sense that something is missing or wrong with them.
Alternatives to Shaved Australian Shepherd
If you want to keep your Australian Shepherd comfortable and healthy without shaving them, there are some alternatives you can try. One of them is to trim their coat instead of shaving it. Trimming can remove some of the excess hair without damaging the double coat or exposing the skin. You can use scissors or clippers to trim around the ears, feet, tail, and belly, or ask a professional groomer to do it for you.
Another alternative is to brush your Australian Shepherd regularly. Brushing can help remove loose hair, dirt, and mats from their coat, and distribute natural oils that keep it shiny and healthy. You should use a slicker brush or a pin brush to brush your Australian Shepherd at least once a week, or more often during shedding seasons.
A third alternative is to bathe your Australian Shepherd occasionally. Bathing can help clean their coat and skin, and remove any odours or stains. However, you should not bathe your Australian Shepherd too often, as it can dry out their skin and coat. You should use a mild dog shampoo that is suitable for their coat type, and rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Conclusion
Shaving an Australian Shepherd is not recommended, as it can have negative effects on their coat, skin, appearance, and personality. Instead of shaving them, you can try trimming, brushing, or bathing them to keep them comfortable and healthy. Remember that your Australian Shepherd’s coat is part of what makes them unique and beautiful.
If you want to read more about dogs then read the article Black and Red German Shepherd: Exceptional Canine Companions