Mary Allen
Introduction
Australian Kelpies are popular herding dogs known for their intelligence, agility, and loyalty. They are a popular choice for active families who love spending time outdoors. While they are low-maintenance dogs, proper grooming is still essential to keep them healthy and happy. In this article, we will discuss how often an Australian Kelpie should be groomed to keep their coat shiny and their skin healthy.
Coat type and length
Australian Kelpies have a double coat that protects them from the harsh Australian climate. Their outer coat is short, straight, and dense, while their undercoat is soft and thick. These dogs shed heavily twice a year, which means they require extra grooming during these periods. Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and prevents mats from forming.
Shedding frequency
As mentioned earlier, Australian Kelpies shed heavily twice a year. During this time, daily brushing is recommended to remove loose hair and prevent it from spreading all over your house. Outside of shedding season, brushing your dog once or twice a week is enough to keep their coat shiny and healthy.
Bathing routine
Australian Kelpies don’t require frequent bathing as their coat is self-cleaning. Bathing them once every three to six months is enough. However, if your dog gets dirty after playing outside, you can give them a bath to keep them clean and fresh. Make sure you use a mild dog shampoo and rinse thoroughly to avoid skin irritation.
Brushing requirements
Brushing your Australian Kelpie’s coat is essential to keep it shiny and healthy. Use a slicker brush or a steel comb to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Brushing your dog’s coat also distributes natural oils, which helps keep their skin moisturized. During shedding season, use a de-shedding tool to remove dead hair and prevent it from spreading all over your house.
Nail trimming schedule
Trimming your dog’s nails is essential to prevent overgrowth, which can be painful and cause mobility issues. Trim your Australian Kelpie’s nails once every two to three weeks or whenever you hear them clicking on the floor. If you don’t feel comfortable trimming their nails, take them to a professional groomer or a veterinarian.
Ear and teeth cleaning
Cleaning your dog’s ears and teeth is essential to prevent infections and dental issues. Check your Australian Kelpie’s ears once a week for signs of redness, discharge, or foul odor. Clean their ears with a damp cloth or a cotton ball to remove dirt and wax buildup. Brush your dog’s teeth at least twice a week to prevent tartar buildup and bad breath.
Professional grooming tips
If you’re not comfortable grooming your Australian Kelpie at home, take them to a professional groomer. A groomer can trim your dog’s coat, nails, and clean their ears and teeth. They can also give your dog a bath and use specialized tools to remove dead hair during shedding season. A professional groomer can give you tips on how to maintain your dog’s coat between appointments.