I am thinking of getting an australian shepherd this summer, bout other people in my family dont like there long hair, HENSE THE SHEDING. So is it popular or ugly to shave an australian shepherd during the time of the year when they shed the most. or would it be unnatractive? What other dogs are there that are just as intelligent but with much shorter hair?
2007-03-22 08:22:17 · 5 answers · asked by tansurflovethebeach 1 in Pets ➔ Dogs
One thing about those type of dogs is that no matter what time of year it is, they ALWAYS shed! I got one once thinking if I brushed him all of the time then I wouldn't see much hair around the house, but it never mattered how many times in one day that I brushed him, he still shed! But if you can get over the hair issue, or have him as a mostly "outside" dog, they are great to have because they are VERY smart and easy to teach. They also have TONS of energy no matter how old they are. They are very loyal and loveable!
Hope this helps and Good Luck!
2007-03-22 09:48:04 · answer #1 · answered by heatherchaleh 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well, honestly I would NEVER shave an animal. They are born with hair for a reason. It's a layer of protection for them. Would a dog that has a little nuisance like shedding make the difference of you taking him? If so, rethink your decision because as a mom of three furbabies- I can attest to the fact that dogs have lots of nuisances. If you don't mind being a little bothered, then please read on!
It's funny how no one else has mentioned the easiest solution to a shedding dog. Brush him! I have two Saint Bernards- well known for their extensive amount of thick and coarse hair. I brush my dogs just about once a day- and it's a great time for them- it's a great way to bond with them and make them realize you care about them- while you avoid the yuckiness of having fur-furniture. I recommend the Fur-minator brush- you can get it at most pet stores. These things are about $40 but they are well worth your money I promise.
One more thing- diet is huge in a dog that sheds a lot. Give him a really great natural foods diet and his shedding will decrease dramatically. I recommend Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance or Innovo Evo.
Good luck with your new pup!
2007-03-22 19:13:46 · answer #2 · answered by Nickster 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you do a good job of shaving the dog- (Or have it done professionally), it shouldn't look all that bad at all and in fact, may help the dog stay a little cooler during the summer months. NEVER cut a dog's hair too short, especially if the animal spends much time outside, the dog's skin could get badly sunburned!!! I recommend a professional dog groomer. :-) By the way-australian shepherds are beautiful dogs and clever, too-(in my opinion)
2007-03-22 15:33:15 · answer #3 · answered by Laurie W 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Dogs have coats designed for the specific needs of the breed. My dog's skin would sunburn if he had no hair. Your dog's coat is designed to keep his skin from being torn or hurt as your breed is a tremendously active and curious dog.
Also, are you certain your dog's hair will grow back?
Do not expose your dog's skin without consulting the vet, and then take the dog to a groomer to have it professionally clipped.
I would never shave a dog for the sake of saving my home from shedded hair but I would consult a groomer about having him clipped.
Do not shave your own animal unless you have the proper tools for animal. Human shavers will pull the dog's coat by the roots and will not cut it.
Good luck with your new dog, they are terribly bright and curious and loving and will be a wonderful companion for you, just
2007-03-22 15:34:23 · answer #4 · answered by Liligirl 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
No you don't shave that kind of a dog. THeir hair will grow back in course and they will itch alot.
It depends if you want the big dog or if a small one will do.
Go to www.dogbreedinfo.com they have a quiz you can take to see what breeds match your desires. They have a section on shedding too.
2007-03-22 15:28:49 · answer #5 · answered by puggylover 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋