If your Australian shepherd has either lost hair or been shaved, you might be worried about how it will regrow, if at all!
This article answers all your questions about how your Aussie’s coat will regrow after it’s been lost, for whatever reason. Let’s get into it!
In This Article:
➡️ Will your Aussie’s hair grow back?
➡️ How long will it take?
➡️ 5 Tips to help hair growth
➡️ Will the hair regrow after shaving?
➡️ What if your Aussie is losing hair?
➡️ Why owners MUST brush their Aussie during regrowth
Will Your Aussie’s Hair Grow Back
The good news is, yes, your Australian Shepherd’s hair will grow back in most situations. Aussies, like most dogs, experience natural shedding cycles and hair regrowth.
However, the speed and quality of hair growth can be influenced by various factors like genetics, diet, overall health, and how the hair was lost in the first place.
So, while it’s natural to worry when you notice your Aussie’s coat looking a bit thin, rest assured that, under normal circumstances, it will fill out again in time.
Important note: If your Aussie has lost their coat due to a chronic health condition, then it may not regrow at all. It may regrow after this issue is treated.
How Long Will It Take To Grow Back
The time it takes for your Aussie’s hair to grow back will vary. Typically, a dog’s hair grows back within 6 to 8 weeks after shedding or after being trimmed.
This range can be more extensive for Australian Shepherds due to their longer, double-coat fur. It can take up to a few months for an Aussie’s hair to regrow fully.
Remember, though, that this is a ballpark figure. Some factors, such as your dog’s overall health, age, diet, and genetic factors, may affect this timeframe. So don’t panic if your Aussie’s hair seems to be taking a little longer to grow back.
5 Tips To Help Aussie Hair Growth
Let’s run through the best ways to ensure your Aussie’s hair regrows as it should. Following these tips will also make sure their coat is healthy, strong and in excellent condition.
✅ Quality Diet
Your Aussie’s diet plays a crucial role in the health of their coat. Make sure your pup gets high-quality dog food packed with the right balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Vitamins and minerals, like Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A and B, are essential for a healthy, shiny coat.
✅ Regular Grooming
Regular brushing not only keeps your Aussie’s coat looking good, but it also stimulates blood flow to the skin, promoting hair growth. It helps to distribute natural oils evenly across their coat, further aiding in a healthy sheen.
✅ Hydration
Water is crucial to your dog’s overall health and, by extension, their coat health. Make sure your Aussie has a constant supply of fresh water.
✅ Avoid Stress
Chronic stress can lead to hair loss in dogs. Make sure your Aussie has a calm, stable environment, regular exercise, and plenty of your loving attention.
✅ Check-ups
Regular vet check-ups can help spot potential health issues that might be affecting your dog’s coat. If you’re concerned about hair loss or slow regrowth, your vet can provide professional advice and possible treatment options.
Will Your Aussie’s Hair Regrow After Being Shaved?
Yes, an Aussie’s hair will regrow after being shaved.
However, it’s essential to note that shaving is not recommended for this breed. Australian Shepherds have a double coat: a denser undercoat and a longer outer coat.
This dual-layer coat provides protection from both heat and cold, and shaving it can disrupt this natural insulation system.
In some cases, shaving may cause the coat to grow back unevenly, with the undercoat growing faster than the overcoat, resulting in a patchy appearance.
Moreover, shaved skin can be more prone to sunburn and other skin issues. So unless medically necessary, it’s better to avoid shaving your Aussie’s beautiful coat.
What If Your Aussie Is Losing Hair?
Hair loss beyond normal shedding might be a sign of an underlying health issue.
If your Aussie’s hair loss seems excessive, it’s important to consult a vet.
Parasites, allergies, hormonal imbalances, or skin infections could be behind unusual hair loss. Your vet will be able to diagnose and treat these conditions to help your Aussie regain a healthy, full coat.
Why Owners MUST Brush Their Aussie During The Regrowth
The undercoat of an Aussie tends to regrow faster than their topcoat. This can cause problems during the regrowth. If not adequately groomed, this can lead to various issues such as matting, tangling, and a somewhat unkempt or patchy appearance.
Matting, in particular, can become a severe problem. Tight mats can pull on your Aussie’s skin, causing discomfort or even pain. If left unattended, mats can lead to skin infections beneath them, which can be a serious health concern.
Moreover, a thick undercoat without a corresponding topcoat can hinder the coat’s overall functionality. The longer guard hairs of the topcoat are designed to repel water and debris, while the undercoat provides insulation. When the undercoat grows unchecked, your Aussie may overheat, or their skin may become more vulnerable to injuries and the sun’s harmful rays.
Regular brushing is the solution to avoid these problems. Brushing helps to keep the undercoat in check while stimulating the growth of the topcoat. A good brushing routine will help ensure that both layers of your Aussie’s coat grow back healthily and at a similar pace.
Last Thoughts
A healthy, shiny coat is a sign of a happy and healthy Aussie. Though it may be concerning to see them shed, remember that it’s a natural process, and their hair will typically grow back in time.
By following the tips in this article, you can help support your Aussie’s hair growth and overall health.
However, if you’re concerned about excessive hair loss or slow regrowth, it’s always best to consult with a vet. Remember, your Australian Shepherd’s well-being is worth every strand of hair.