Getting the Right Fit for Your Aussie
Australian Shepherds are indeed lanky, and while they're medium-to-large dogs, their paws might be smaller than you'd expect for a 60-pounder. Before committing, measure your dog's paw width at the widest point across the pad. The Large MudBuster is 4.75 inches wide, and you need enough clearance so the paw doesn't jam against the bristles or bottom. One reviewer mentioned that tight fits create a lot of resistance and make the twisting action harder, which defeats the purpose of the tool. If you're between sizes, the product recommendation is to size up rather than down, so if your Aussie's paw is close to 3.5 inches, the Large is the safer choice. You can always use it with slightly more water to create more cushioning space.
The Twist-and-Clean Action With Larger Paws
The MudBuster works by filling it with water, inserting the paw, and twisting the cup to let the soft silicone bristles agitate away dirt and mud. For a larger dog like an Aussie Shepherd, this motion is generally effective, though one reviewer with a Husky noted that the hard plastic construction doesn't compress, which can make insertion feel resistant if the fit is snug. The good news is that the bristles themselves are soft and flexible, so even with a bigger paw, they won't hurt your dog. The twist action works well for removing caked-on mud from between the toes and pads, which is exactly what you need after outdoor adventures. Just expect the process to take a bit longer with four large paws to clean, though most people report the whole job takes under five minutes once your dog gets used to it.
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Real-World Use With Active, Muddy Dogs
One owner who's used the MudBuster for five years with a dog that initially resisted paw handling reported that even a paw-sensitive dog eventually accepts it, especially when treats are involved. For an active Aussie Shepherd that spends time outdoors, this tool genuinely keeps dirt off your floors and car. The portable design means you can rinse paws right after park visits or hikes before your dog jumps into the vehicle. It's also useful for quick spot-cleaning between baths when your Aussie steps in something particularly nasty. The silicone bristles are removable and the whole thing disassembles into three pieces, so cleanup is straightforward - just a quick rinse with hot water usually does it.
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For your lanky Aussie, the Large MudBuster should work well as long as you verify the paw fit beforehand. It's a practical tool that actually delivers on keeping the mess contained, and at $13.49, it's worth trying if your dog spends significant time outdoors.
