Can you shave an Australian Terrier?

Yes, you can shave an Australian Terrier, but it’s not recommended because their double coat serves important protective functions. Their coat helps regulate body temperature, offers protection from the sun, and shields the skin from environmental elements. Shaving can impair these functions, making your pup more susceptible to temperature extremes, sunburn, and skin irritation. Shaving can also alter the texture of the coat. When it grows back, the coat may be softer and less effective at providing the protection it once did. The new growth may also become more prone to matting and tangling.

Grooming practices such as brushing, occasional trimming, and hand-stripping are better alternatives for managing their coat. If shaving is considered necessary for medical reasons, speak with your veterinarian or a professional groomer for guidance.