Australian Shepherd

Question
Our Australian Shepherd (1 yr old and 60 pounds) is a house dog and sheds like CRAZY... Is it safe to have him shaved (not down to the skin) to get some of the hair off and keep him cooler by a professional groomer?? Will his hair grow back like it looks now??

Answer
Terrie,
I am sorry but I don't ever feel comfortable recommending that option- even tho it is one.
Why?
Australian Shepherds are not bred to be house dogs but outdoor working dogs.  You can shave the dog but the coat does lose it's texture and shine for about a year- about the amount of time until you will want to shave it down again next year so - unless you learn to groom him properly you will never have the correct coat. Washing and blowing the coat with an HV (high velocity) dryer monthly will loosen the dead hair and cut down on the shedding. Weekly brushing will also help. There are a myriad of tools just for these coats. Mars coat kings, shedding blades, large Universal slicker brushes, metal combs.
This is the time of year that they shed- it is natural, correct, and healthy. Shaving these dogs is an easy and unattractive option that embarrasses the dog, removes it's protective jacket and can promote unhealthy skin. When done by an unskilled person, there can be clipper burn, nicked skin and can cause serious anxiety for your dog.
Better you contact a Aussie Shepherd Club and  ask them what they recommend and get that dog out of the house and doing things that he is bred to do or you will have a very frustrated dog.
I don't mean to offend you in any way but it is from the group of breeds that are working dogs and they are a highly specialized and instinctual group of animals. They need a job to get the most out of their relationship with you. If he was in the world he was bred to be in that coat would protect him from the sun, the wind, the rain, the cold, all the elements. To shave it off is completely unnatural - but your decision. Talk with a knowledgeable groomer if you must do it and get one who is at least experienced in shave downs. In groomer parlance, it's know as a OAY- once a year dog.
good luck.