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Personality: The Australian shepherd is a breed of superlatives. It is considered one of the smartest dogs around, with the most energy. It can be intensely loyal and devoted to its owners and very wary of strangers.A well-trained Australian shepherd can be an incredibly loving addition to many families. In fact, the Australian shepherd is nicknamed a "velcro" dog in canine-centric circles because of its intense attachment to its owners.
Grooming: While the coat of an Australian shepherd can vary in density, all should receive a weekly brushing with a slicker brush, followed by a rake brush. Be especially considerate of spots on the dog that are prime for matting problems: the legs, front and back, and behind the ears. Aussies tend to shed heavily once a year, usually in late spring or early summer, due to increased sunlight. (This is one reason why Aussies should not be kept as indoor dogs; the unnatural, indoor light will screw up their natural shedding schedules.)
