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Grooming:
The Miniature American Shepherd has an easy to care for coat that is not as problematic as some of the double coated breeds. The thicker, slightly coarse and straight outer coat is simple to brush using a pin brush or stiff bristle brush. Always start by grooming the outer coat in the direction of growth which is slightly back and down. After this is completed, start at the shoulders and push the longer hair forward, exposing the dense, downy undercoat, brush this again the direction of growth, moving down the back and sides. Pay particular attention to the hair round the neck, the furnishings on the legs and the hair on the rump as these can be areas prone to matting and tangling.
Typically, the Miniature Australian Shepherd is an average shedder. However, they will shed their coats heavily in the spring and fall. During these times the inner coat will come out in chunks or clumps and can become very matted. Daily brushing will both help speed up the shedding as well as prevent these mats from forming. If mats do form in the hair that is being shed they may need to be cut out using blunt ended scissors.
The Miniature Australian Shepherd should be only minimally clipped or trimmed for show and, typically, should not require much of clipping or trimming at home. Puppies have shorter coats that will not reach their full adult coat length until about one year of age. The Miniature Australian Shepherd has natural oils in the hair to keep the dog dry and warm even in cold or damp conditions, so it is not advisable to bathe this breed unless absolutely necessary. Dry dog powder is often used between wet baths just to help remove dirt from the hair.
Do not forget to trim toenails regularly!!!
Australian Shepherd Hair Care (Complete Grooming Guide!) | Paws and Learn
SHOULD I SHAVE MY AUSSIE:
Here's a direct quote from a groomer and we agree wholeheartedly:
"Shaving an Aussie or any double coated dog takes away their ability to cool themselves off. It can also ruin the top coat and make it not grow back or just destroy the silky beautiful coat. I strongly advise against it."
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