Hair grooming is a common necessity for dogs, just as humans. But not all types of haircuts go well with any dogs; some pups, such as Shetland Sheepdogs, require more attention and care than others.
Because they have a double coat, with a wooly undercoat and long outer hair, it is important to keep their hair healthy and free from mats. This can be a challenging task, but with the right style and techniques, it can be done easily.
How to groom a matted Sheltie?
Step 1: Preparation
First, gather all the grooming tools you’ll need. This includes a slicker brush, a comb with both wide and narrow teeth, a mat splitter, and a pair of grooming shears. You might also want some dog-friendly detangling spray on hand.
Step 2: The Initial Brush
Now, find a quiet, comfortable spot where both you and your Sheltie can relax. Start by gently brushing the dog’s coat with the slicker brush.
This should help to loosen up some of the lighter tangles. Remember, always brush in the direction the hair grows to avoid discomfort.
Step 3: Tackle the Mats
For deeper mats, use a mat splitter. Be careful, though. You want to split the mat into smaller, more manageable sections without cutting the skin. Always aim the blade away from your Shetland Sheepdog’s body.
Step 4: Detailed Comb-Out
Once the mats are split, work through them with your comb. Start with the wider teeth, then switch to the narrow side for a thorough detangle. This process requires patience and gentle handling. Never yank or pull roughly on the mats.
Step 5: Trim if Necessary
If some mats are particularly stubborn, you might need to carefully trim them out using the grooming shears.
But be cautious. It’s easy to accidentally nick the skin if the mat is close to the body.
If you’re not comfortable doing this, consider consulting a professional groomer.
Step 6: Regular Maintenance
Once you’ve managed to detangle your Sheltie’s coat, it’s time for some preventive care. Regular grooming is key to preventing mats in the future. Aim for a thorough brush at least once a week, but the more frequently, the better.
And one more thing: Always praise and reward your Sheltie throughout the process. This can be a stressful experience for them, so making it as positive as possible will make future grooming sessions easier.
Amazing Haircut Ideas for Sheltie
If you have a Shetland Sheepdog, you know that these furry little cuties require a special bit of care when it comes to their haircuts. Keep reading to learn more about perfect haircut ideas for Sheltie.
1. Medium Outer Guard
Keeping the outer guard medium is a popular choice among the owners of Shetland Sheepdogs. This style leaves the hair on the top of the head longer than the rest of the coat.
The hair on the tail areas also remains longer, which can be particularly striking when the hair has a black-and-white blend.
2. Long Waves
The long outer hairs of a Shetland Sheepdog help to protect the dog’s skin protected during winter.
Although the length and texture of the guard can vary depending on the individual dog, keeping them longer help to insulate the dog against cold weather. But while growing, make sure you comb or brush regularly to keep them free from mats.
3. Exposed Undercoat
A Shelties’ short haircut with exposed undercoats is the most popular during the summer as it helps to keep the dog cool.
It is also a low-maintenance shetland sheepdog haircu, so doesn’t require a lot of grooming.
Also, you can get your dog this short haircut before fall when they change coats.
4. Brushed + Layered Cut
Sheltie’s silky smooth brushed hair with the layered haircut is irresistibly cute, but it requires regular grooming to maintain.
The best way to brush your Sheltie’s hair is to start at the head and work your way down the body. Be sure to use a soft-bristled brush and take your time to avoid irritating the dog’s skin.
5. Thinned Guard
This classic Shetland Sheepdog haircut is achieved by thinning the outer guard hair to create a soft, feathered appearance. To achieve this look, begin by brushing the dog’s coat thoroughly to remove any tangles or mats.
Next, use a sharp pair of scissors to carefully trim the outer guard hairs. Be sure to avoid cutting into the undercoat, as this can damage the coat and cause irritation.
6. Chopped Out Guard
This style involves trimming the outer guard hairs to create a clean, sharp look. The hair on the head and face is trimmed short, and the body coat is left medium.
It can be a great option for those looking for a stylish, low-maintenance Sheltie haircut.
7. Summer Cut
This thinning style not only helps to keep Shetland Sheepdog cool in the summer heat, but it also provides protection from the sun and pests. The hair on the head is left long, while the rest of the body is clipped medium.
This Shetland Sheepdog hairstyle can be varied to suit your dog’s individual needs, but it is generally recommended that the hair be left longer around the neck and shoulders to provide greater coverage.
8. Hanged Down Fur
The thick coat of hair hangs down over the dog’s body, providing insulation from the sun’s rays. The coat also helps to deflect wind and water, making it an ideal choice for dogs who enjoy spending time outdoors.
In addition, it is easy to maintain and doesn’t require frequent grooming. Simply brush the coat once or twice a week to remove any dirt or debris.
9. Natural Look
This Shetland Sheepdog haircut is my personal favorite. With the natural look, we celebrate our Sheltie’s double coat. It’s all about regular trims to keep their fur neat while maintaining its characteristic length. This method means we need to brush our pals frequently, focusing on areas like behind the ears and around the neck and hind legs.
10. Puppy Cut
For a low-maintenance sheltie style, consider the Puppy Cut. This trim means clipping the coat uniformly, resulting in fur about one to two inches long across the body. This cut drastically reduces grooming time and helps our Sheltie stay cooler in summer. However, the pup will lose some of the distinctive mane and frills.
11. Show Cut
If you’re preparing your Sheltie for a dog show, the Show Cut is the way to go. This style trims and thins the fur to accentuate our friend’s natural features and fit the breed standard. The fur around the legs and belly is cut short, while the fur around the neck and mane stays long and fluffy. A professional groomer is usually your best bet to get this style just right.
12. Teddy Bear Cut
The Teddy Bear cut leaves the Shetland sheepdog’s fur about 2-3 inches long all over the body. Our Sheltie looks adorable and cuddly with this style, but we need to be prepared for more frequent brushing to prevent matting and tangling.
Usually, Shetland Sheepdogs require their first haircut around six months of age. So, if you are looking for ideas, these styles will surely help you out.
