For an Australian Shepherd, the best way to keep the coat bushier and in good shape is regular brushing, light trimming only where needed, and avoiding full shaving. Weekly brushing, plus more often during heavy shedding, helps remove loose undercoat and keeps the outer coat looking full and healthy.

Quick Scoop

Aussies have a double coat, so the goal is to keep it clean, detangled, and natural-looking rather than overly short. Good coat care also supports skin health and helps prevent mats around the ears, tail, feet, and britches.

What Works Best

  • Brush at least once a week, using a slicker brush, pin brush, or undercoat rake for loose hair.
  • “Line brushing” or brushing down to the skin helps prevent hidden tangles.
  • Bathe only when needed, because too-frequent bathing can dry the coat and skin.
  • Dry thoroughly after baths so the undercoat does not stay damp and get matted.
  • Trim only the feet, ears, hocks, and a little fringe if needed to keep things neat while preserving the full coat look.

What To Avoid

  • Do not shave or clip the coat down short unless a vet specifically recommends it, because that can damage coat texture and reduce insulation.
  • Avoid harsh de-shedding tools that can mechanically damage the outer coat.
  • Do not brush too aggressively across the skin; that can irritate the dog and break coat structure.

Healthy Coat Habits

A good diet matters too, since coat quality reflects overall nutrition. During shedding seasons, a little extra brushing and outdoor grooming can make a big difference, and a forced-air dryer can help blow out loose coat after bathing if used carefully.

Simple Routine

  1. Brush 2–3 times a week, or daily during heavy shedding.
  2. Check ears, tail base, pants, and feet for mats.
  3. Bathe only when dirty.
  4. Dry completely.
  5. Trim small tidy-up areas only, not the whole coat.

The big rule is simple: keep the coat full, clean, and brushed out , not buzzed short.

TL;DR

Weekly brushing, occasional bathing, careful drying, and minimal trimming are the best ways to keep an Aussie’s coat bushy and in good shape.