How to Thin a Sheltie's Undercoat

Shetland sheepdogs, also referred to as Shelties, are a longhaired breed descending from the Scotland Border Collie. Shelties are historically intelligent, loyal and conforming, which makes them ideal farm herders or home watchdogs. The Sheltie's defining characteristic is its long, thick coat, typically a combination of black, white, tan and brown fur. Like other longhaired breeds, consistent grooming is required to keep the underlying skin, undercoat and top coat healthy.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic spray bottle
  • Detangling solution (optional)
  • Undercoat rake
  • Pin brush
  • Slicker brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Part the coat just behind the Sheltie's neck so that you can see the underlying skin. Locate the undercoat, which consists of thick, wooly fur just above the skin.

    • 2

      Spray water or a detangling solution onto the undercoat to simplify the thinning process.

    • 3

      Brush the undercoat using straight outward passes with your undercoat rake. For consistency, start each pass from the center of the part. Spray more water or detangling solution onto the fur as needed. Empty the teeth of your rake of fur as it fills up.

    • 4

      Begin a new part and repeat the above steps until you have thinned the entire undercoat. Cover both the top and side of your Sheltie's body. For best results, begin each new part no less than 2 inches from the previous one.

    • 5

      Groom the underside of your Sheltie using your undercoat rake. Brush in the direction of the fur, paying special attention to the armpit and groin regions.

    • 6

      Finish by brushing your Sheltie's entire coat with a pin brush to remove any tangles and matting from the top coat. Distribute the coat's natural oils for a glossy sheen by following with a slicker brush.