How to Manage German Shepherd Hair

Similar to dog breeds such as collies, Siberian huskies and akitas, the German shepherd has a double coating of fur. The undercoat of the German shepherd generally stays intact and keeps the dog warm in colder climates and winter weather. The top coat serves as a protective covering for the dog, is shed constantly in the summer months and requires frequent attention. Managing German shepherd hair properly will keep its coat clean, healthy and free of mats.

Things You'll Need

  • Slicker brush
  • Fine-toothed or deshedding comb
  • Scissors
  • Mat rake (optional)
  • Dog shampoo
  • Dog conditioner (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Brush the dog at least twice a week ̵2; more for longer-haired varieties of German shepherds ̵2; using a slicker brush to remove surface debris, small mats and loose hair from the coat. Brush the coat in the general direction of growth.

    • 2

      Use a fine-toothed comb, such as deshedding comb, to reach into the undercoat and remove mats that could not be removed using the slicker brush. Consider using a mat rake for especially stubborn hair clumps, or use scissors and cut the clump away. Hold the mat by the teeth of the comb and cut the fur just beneath the surface of the comb.

    • 3

      Bathe your German shepherd a few times per year with a specially designed dog shampoo. Put the dog in a tub and run lukewarm water in it; it is better to put the dog in the tub before the water is run to keep it from panicking. Lather the dog's coat all over, using caution around the face and eyes, and rinse well with warm water. Use a dog conditioner if your German shepherd's coat feels coarse or dry. Towel dry the dog thoroughly.

    • 4

      Use scissors to trim any extraneous hairs that you see on the surface of its coat. Trim the hairs around the base of the tail, if necessary; in general, you shouldn't need to use electric clippers on your German shepherd's coat unless you are going for a specific look.

    • 5

      Brush the dog one more time after bathing and trimming.