Quick Answer:
Shetland Sheepdog grooming costs $60-$90 every 6-8 weeks. Their beautiful double coat with distinctive mane sheds moderately year-round with heavy seasonal blows. Brush 2-3 times weekly.
Shetland Sheepdog Grooming Costs
Here's what to expect for professional Shetland Sheepdog grooming based on size and service type:
| Size | Weight | Basic Groom | Full Groom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shetland Sheepdog | 15-25 lbs | $60-$75 | $75-$90 |
Annual grooming costs: $480-$720 (based on grooming every 6-8 weeks).
For comparison with other breeds, see our complete dog grooming cost guide.
Shetland Sheepdog Coat Type & Care
Shelties have a long, straight, harsh outer coat and short, dense undercoat. They have a distinctive mane and frill around the neck. Colors include sable, black, and blue merle with white and tan markings.
| Coat Type | Double |
| Shedding | Moderate to Heavy (seasonal) |
| Grooming Frequency | Every 6-8 weeks |
| Brushing | 2-3 times weekly (daily during shedding) |
| Grooming Difficulty | Medium |
Popular Shetland Sheepdog Haircuts
Here are the most popular grooming styles for Shetland Sheepdogs:
Natural Coat Maintenance
Best for: Breed standard appearance
Maintaining natural coat with full mane, pants, and tail plume.
Maintenance: Medium-High - regular brushing
De-shedding Treatment
Best for: Managing seasonal shedding
Intensive undercoat removal during coat blow.
Maintenance: Reduces loose hair significantly
Sanitary and Tidy Trim
Best for: Hygiene and neatness
Light trimming around ears, paws, and rear for cleanliness.
Maintenance: Regular brushing
Shetland Sheepdog Grooming Schedule
Follow this schedule to keep your Shetland Sheepdog looking and feeling their best:
- Professional grooming: Every 6-8 weeks
- Brushing: 2-3 times weekly, daily when shedding
- Bathing: Every 6-8 weeks
- Nail trimming: Every 3-4 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Weekly
Puppy Grooming
Start grooming early. Puppy coat is softer and will transition to adult coat around 1 year.
Senior Dog Grooming
Older Shelties may have thinner coats. Be gentle and watch for skin issues.
Find a Shetland Sheepdog-experienced groomer
Search our directory for professional groomers experienced with Shetland Sheepdogs and similar breeds.
Find Groomers Near MeCommon Shetland Sheepdog Grooming Problems
Matting
Dense coat can mat, especially behind ears, under legs, and in pants.
Prevention: Regular thorough brushing to the skin.
Seasonal Shedding
Heavy shedding during coat blow periods.
Prevention: Daily brushing during shedding season and de-shedding treatments.
Ear Issues
Semi-erect ears can collect debris.
Prevention: Weekly ear cleaning and checking.
At-Home Shetland Sheepdog Grooming
Between professional grooms, here's what you need and how to maintain your Shetland Sheepdog's coat at home.
Essential Tools
- Pin brush
- Slicker brush
- Undercoat rake
- Wide-tooth comb
- De-shedding tool
- Ear cleaner
Grooming Tips
- Never shave a Sheltie
- Brush in layers to reach undercoat
- Pay extra attention to mane and pants
- Use line brushing technique
- Increase brushing during shedding season
Finding a Shetland Sheepdog-Experienced Groomer
Not all groomers are equally experienced with every breed. Here's what to look for when choosing a groomer for your Shetland Sheepdog:
- Find groomers experienced with herding breeds
- Verify understanding of double coat care
- Ask about de-shedding treatments
- Ensure they maintain natural breed outline
For more tips, see our Signs of a Good Dog Groomer guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Shetland Sheepdog grooming cost?▼
$60-$90 per session.
Do Shelties shed a lot?▼
Moderately year-round with heavy seasonal shedding twice yearly.
Can you shave a Sheltie?▼
No, never shave a double-coated breed. It damages the coat and temperature regulation.
How often should a Sheltie be groomed?▼
Every 6-8 weeks professionally with regular brushing at home.
Are Shelties hard to groom?▼
Moderate difficulty - manageable with consistent care.
What is a Sheltie's mane?▼
The longer fur around the neck and chest that gives them a lion-like appearance.
The Bottom Line
Shetland Sheepdog grooming requires professional appointments every 6-8 weeks, with costs ranging based on size and service level. Regular at-home maintenance between appointments keeps your Shetland Sheepdog looking and feeling their best.
Find a groomer experienced with Shetland Sheepdogs, establish a consistent grooming schedule, and maintain regular brushing at home. Your Shetland Sheepdog will thank you with a healthy, beautiful coat.
Related Breed Guides
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