Grooming and Coat Care for Shelties

Shelties, also known as Shetland Sheepdogs, are a breed of dog that are known for their beautiful, thick double coat. While their coat is one of their most distinctive features, it also requires regular grooming and care to keep it healthy and looking its best. In this article, we will provide some advice on grooming and coat care for Shelties.

Brushing

Shelties have a thick, double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Owners should plan on brushing their Shelties at least once a week, but during shedding season, which can occur twice a year, owners may need to brush their Shelties more frequently. A slicker brush or a pin brush can be used to remove loose hair and prevent tangles. Owners should be gentle when brushing their Shelties, as their coat is delicate and can be easily damaged.

Bathing

Shelties require regular baths to keep their coat clean and healthy. However, owners should be careful not to over-bathe their Shelties, as this can strip the natural oils from their coat and cause skin irritation. Owners should plan on bathing their Shelties every 6-8 weeks, or as needed if they become particularly dirty or smelly. A gentle, dog-specific shampoo should be used, and owners should be sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid any leftover soap residue.

Drying

After bathing, owners should make sure to dry their Shelties thoroughly. Excess moisture can lead to skin irritation and infections. A towel can be used to remove excess water, but owners should also use a blow dryer on a low heat setting to completely dry their Shelties. Owners should be careful not to blow the air directly on their dog’s skin, as this can cause burns.

Trimming

Shelties have a lot of hair around their ears, feet, and tail that can become overgrown and require trimming. Owners should use scissors or clippers to carefully trim these areas, being careful not to cut too close to the skin. It is important to note that Shelties have a double coat, and owners should avoid shaving their dog’s coat, as this can damage the coat and cause it to grow back unevenly.

Dealing with Shedding

Shelties are known for their shedding, which can be a challenge for owners. During shedding season, owners may need to brush their Shelties more frequently to remove loose hair. A deshedding tool, such as a Furminator, can also be helpful in removing excess hair. It is important to note that Shelties should not be shaved to reduce shedding, as this can damage their coat and cause it to grow back unevenly.

Professional Grooming

While owners can groom their Shelties at home, some may choose to take their dogs to a professional groomer for a more thorough grooming. Professional groomers can provide services such as nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing, in addition to bathing and brushing. Owners should make sure to choose a reputable groomer who is experienced with Shelties and understands their unique grooming needs.

Coat Supplements

In addition to regular grooming, owners can also provide their Shelties with coat supplements to help keep their coat healthy and shiny. Omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil, can help to improve the quality of a Sheltie’s coat and reduce shedding. Owners should talk to their veterinarian before giving their Shelties any supplements, as some supplements can interact with medications or cause side effects.

Final Thoughts

Grooming and coat care are important aspects of owning a Sheltie. Regular brushing, bathing, and trimming can help to keep their coat healthy and looking its best. Owners should also be aware of shedding season and take steps to manage shedding. Professional grooming and coat supplements can also be helpful in keeping a Sheltie’s coat healthy and shiny. With the right care and attention, a Sheltie’s coat can be one of their most beautiful features.