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Shetland Sheepdog — Grooming Guide
How Often to Groom
- Brushing: 3–4 times per week
- Nail trimming: Every 2–3 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Weekly
- Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks
- Heavy shedding seasons: Daily brushing + HV drying
About the Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs (Shelties) have a long, dense double coat with a thick undercoat and a straight, harsh topcoat. They shed year‑round and blow coat seasonally. Their coat mats easily behind the ears, in the pants, and around the neck ruff. Regular brushing and proper drying are essential to keep their coat healthy and mat‑free.
Before You Start
Your Sheltie Bathing Package includes everything needed to bathe this breed safely, including a Shampoo Dilution Bottle and a Moisturizing Shampoo for double coats. Your Grooming Package includes the tools needed for brushing, de‑shedding, drying, and maintaining their long coat.
Shetland Sheepdog Bathing Package
Shop the recommended bathing package here:
Moisturizing Bathing Package
- Moisturizing Shampoo
- Shampoo Dilution Bottle
- Shammy Towel
- Microfiber Towel
Shetland Sheepdog Grooming Package
Shop the recommended grooming package here:
Moisturizing Grooming Package
- Slicker Brush
- Undercoat Rake
- Shedding Comb
- Metal Comb
- Dematting Comb
- Thinning Shears
- Conditioning Spray (trial size)
Shetland Sheepdog Care Package
Shop the full care package here:
Care Package
- Ear Cleaner
- Eye Wipes
- Paw Balm
- Nail Clippers
Additional Grooming Tools
- High‑Velocity Dryer (HV Dryer)
- Grooming Arm
- Extra Shammy Towel
- Extra Microfiber Towel
Step‑By‑Step Grooming Guide
1. Brush the Coat
Start with an undercoat rake to remove loose undercoat.
Follow with a slicker brush to lift and separate the coat.
Use a metal comb to check for hidden mats behind the ears, in the pants, and around the neck ruff.
2. Clean the Ears
Use ear cleaner and cotton to wipe the outer ear weekly.
3. Trim the Nails
Trim every 2–3 weeks.
Shelties often have fast‑growing nails.
4. Bathe the Sheltie
Bathe every 4–6 weeks using diluted moisturizing shampoo.
Rinse thoroughly — their dense coat holds soap easily.
5. Dry the Coat
Use a shammy towel, then a microfiber towel.
Finish with an HV dryer while brushing to remove loose undercoat and prevent matting.
6. Tidy the Feet, Pants & Feathering
Use thinning shears to neaten the feet, legs, and pants.
Avoid over‑trimming — Shelties should look natural and flowing.
7. Apply Leave‑In Conditioner
Work a small amount through the coat to reduce dryness and add shine.
Double Coat Notes
Never shave a Sheltie. Their double coat regulates temperature and protects their skin from sunburn and injury. Shaving can permanently damage coat texture.
Final Thoughts
Shelties are high‑maintenance due to their long double coat, but with a consistent routine, they stay clean, fluffy, and mat‑free.
FAQ
How often should a Sheltie be groomed?
Brush 3–4 times per week; daily during shedding season.
Should you shave a Sheltie?
No. Their double coat should never be shaved.
How do you reduce shedding?
Undercoat raking, HV drying, and regular brushing.
How often should you bathe them?
Every 4–6 weeks.
But these tools pay for themselves faster than you think.
A typical groom costs $70–$120. If you go every 4–6 weeks, the tools usually pay for themselves in 3–5 grooms.
But the money isn't even the biggest part.
- You know exactly how your dog is being treated.
- No contamination from other dogs.
- No chance of your dog being drugged without your knowledge.
- No rough handling behind closed doors.
- No stress from loud salons or unfamiliar animals.
- Your dog stays in the place they feel safest — home.
Your dog trusts you more than anyone. Grooming them yourself honors that trust.
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