One of the most popular and favored dog breeds in the United States is the Australian Shepherd, aka Aussie. This cute breed is popular in part because of its moderately long and wavy double coat that sheds year-round. In addition, Aussies have two heavy shedding seasons (spring and fall) during which you may have to spend more time cleaning up dog fur from the surfaces in your home and car. To cut down on the amount of dog hair in your house, you need to brush your Aussie's coat regularly.
In fact, one of the responsibilities that come with owning an Aussie is frequent brushing. To keep your Aussie's waterproof, double-layer coat looking its best, the AKC recommends weekly brushing sessions. However, more work will be required during shedding season. To remove the abundant dead hair, the AKC recommends an undercoat rake followed by a cleanup with a wire brush.
1. Sinko Undercoat Rake
This undercoat rake is a de-matting and de-shedding tool designed to tackle undercoat shedding in dogs such as the Aussie. Crafted by pet grooming experts, this grooming tool allows you to easily remove loose hair and eliminate tangles, and knots without irritating your dog's skin. The rake features 9 rounded teeth on one side and 17 on the other.
You can use the 9-tooth side to remove mats and tangles and the 17-tooth side for de-shedding and hair thinning. This undercoat removal tool receives positive reviews for its performance, gentleness, and quality. For example, pet owners mention that the rake is effective and comfortable for extended grooming sessions. In addition, customers like the massaging action as well as the smooth, ergonomic handle.
- Brand: SINKO
- Bristle Material: Stainless steel
- Handle Material: Metal, rubber, and plastic
- Has a non-slip handle
- Rounded-end blades
- A dual-sided design
2. GoPets' 2-Sided Undercoat Brush
Here is another professional grooming rake for your Australian Shepherd in case you didn't like the appearance of the first one. Trusted by over 20,000 users, this grooming tool, thanks to its double-sided design not only acts as a de-shedding tool but also as a de-matting brush and detangling comb. To safely cut through mats and tangles without pulling your dog's hair, the rake features sharp stainless steel blades.
Additionally, the rake's blades have dull rounded ends so as to not scratch or irritate your dog's skin during grooming sessions. Users like the rake's quality, size as well ease of use. For example, while some users say it's the best brush they've ever used, others mention how it effectively removes unwanted layers of hair and will work great on any type of hair.
- Brand: GoPets
- Double-sided design
- Is gentle on pets
- Multi-functional grooming tool
- Non-slip, silicone gel-filled handle
3. GoPets Professional Slicker Brush
Recommended by professional groomers and trusted by over 2,000 users, this slicker brush from GoPets is actually the type of brush you want to start with when grooming your Australian Shepherd. It is the number one dog brush recommended for Aussies as it is:
- Easy to use
- Easy to clean
- Super effective
You can say goodbye to floating hair with this self-cleaning dog brush, as it not only controls shedding but also captures loose hair, keeping your home cleaner. Plus, your Australian Shepherd will flaunt a silky smooth coat after just a five-minute brushing session.
Another recommended slicker brush for Australian Shepherds is the Artero double flexible brush.
4. A Dog Grooming Comb
After brushing your Aussie with the undercoat rake and slicker brush, you should use a grooming comb to add a finishing touch to your dog’s coat. I like the Andis metal dog comb. It is built to last and and easy to use. Its rounded head pins are gentle on your Australian Shepherd’s skin and leave its coat soft, sleek, and shining.
How Often Should You Brush Your Australian Shepherd?
Australian Shepherds are serious shedders and therefore require regular brushing. Generally, it is recommended that you brush your Aussie twice a week. During shedding season, however, you may need to increase brushing to four times a week, thereby controlling the amount of loose undercoat. It is recommended that you maintain a regular grooming schedule to minimize shedding.
The undercoat rake excels at removing loose underfur while the slicker brush is ideal for Aussies' outer coat. The metal comb is ideal for removing any remaining tangles or knots, adding the finishing touch. Using an undercoat rake, a slicker brush and a dog comb in your grooming routine will help keep your Aussie's coat healthy and mat-free.
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