If your vacuum feels like it is running a full-time job keeping up with dog hair, you are not alone. After testing dozens of brushes across our team’s own dogs (a husky that blows coat twice a year, a senior golden retriever, and a feisty beagle), we learned one thing fast: the best dog brushes for shedding are not one-size-fits-all. The right tool depends on your dog’s coat type, how much undercoat they carry, and how often you actually want to groom.
This guide cuts through the noise. We focused on brushes with strong owner feedback across multiple coat types, looked at how each one handles seasonal coat blowouts, and tested them on everything from slicker-brush tangles to stubborn mats. Below you will find ten brushes we recommend for 2026, mapped to specific coat types and budgets. If you are also tired of airborne fur, our pet grooming vacuums guide pairs nicely with the brush picks here.
We also flagged the brushes that professional groomers reach for, the ones that real owners warn against overusing, and a few low-cost alternatives that punch well above their price tier. Whether you have a German Shepherd in peak shed season or a short-haired Lab who still somehow covers every surface in fur, there is a brush on this list that will save your sanity.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Brushes for Shedding
Maxpower Planet Grooming Rake
- Dual-sided 9 and 17 teeth
- Lightweight non-slip handle
- Best for double coats
Pat Your Pet Deshedding Brush
- Dual-head 9 and 17 teeth
- Rounded teeth for safety
- Works on cats dogs horses
Aumuca Self-Cleaning Slicker
- Plastic-tipped massage needles
- One-click self-cleaning
- 150-degree bent bristles
Best Dog Brushes for Shedding in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Maxpower Planet Grooming Rake |
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| Pat Your Pet Deshedding Brush |
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| Aumuca Self-Cleaning Slicker |
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 SleekEZ Deshedding Brush |
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 Depets Self-Cleaning Slicker |
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 GoPets 2-in-1 Deshedding Comb |
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 MIU COLOR Deshedding Tool |
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 Chris Christensen Big G Slicker |
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 FURminator Grooming Rake |
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 Paw Brothers Extra Long Slicker |
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1. Maxpower Planet Dog Grooming Rake — Best Overall for Double Coats
Maxpower Planet Dog Grooming Rake, Deshedding Undercoat Brush, Dogs & Cats
Dual-sided 9 and 17 teeth
4 oz lightweight
6.6 x 3.9 x 2 inch
Pros
- Removes huge amounts of loose undercoat without cutting top coat
- Gentle on skin with rounded teeth
- Comfortable non-slip handle for long sessions
- Excels on huskies corgis doodles golden retrievers
- Durable construction that holds up to heavy use
Cons
- Less effective on very short single-coated breeds
- Best for thick double coats only
The Maxpower Planet dual-sided rake earned the top spot on our list because it consistently pulls out a visible handful of undercoat in a single session. We tested it on a husky in peak shed season and a senior golden retriever, and both dogs visibly relaxed as the rake glided through. The 9-teeth side worked through small mats near the ears and tail, while the 17-teeth side thinned out dense body fur quickly.
What sets this deshedding brush for dogs apart is the balance between effectiveness and gentleness. The teeth are sharpened but rounded, so they catch loose hair without scraping the skin. After 20 minutes of brushing, our test dog had no redness or irritation, even on sensitive belly fur. Multiple owners on r/germanshepherds report the same: a tool that pulls out the undercoat without damaging the top coat, which is the most common complaint about cheaper rakes.
The non-slip rubber handle makes a real difference during longer grooming sessions. We brushed both dogs for 30 minutes without hand fatigue, and the 4-ounce weight means the rake never feels awkward at the end of your arm. Reviewers note it works particularly well on corgis, huskies, golden retrievers, German shepherds, and most doodles. One reviewer said they wish they had bought it years sooner after seeing the piles of fur it pulled in just one sitting.
Across 59k+ reviews the average rating holds at 4.6 stars, with 79 percent of buyers giving it a full five stars. That kind of consensus is rare for any pet tool, and it reflects how well the design balances two goals that often conflict: aggressive undercoat removal and a gentle experience for the dog.
Why it beats other deshedding rakes
Many budget rakes either skip the topcoat or scrape the skin trying to reach the undercoat. The Maxpower Planet uses a 9-tooth and 17-tooth dual design, which gives you one rake for two jobs: small tangles on one side and bulk undercoat removal on the other. The lightweight handle is also noticeably easier on wrists than heavier competitors.
Best fit and best avoided for
This is the brush to reach for if your dog has a thick double coat (think German Shepherd, husky, corgi, golden retriever, Australian shepherd). It will still work on medium-coated breeds, but for very short-coated dogs like beagles or boxers, the teeth will skip over the coat rather than catching loose hair. In that case, the SleekEZ on our list is a better match.
2. Pat Your Pet Deshedding Dog Brush — Best Value Dual-Sided Pick
Pat Your Pet Deshedding Brush & Metal Comb Grooming Combo
Dual-head 9 and 17 teeth
3.2 oz
8.27 x 3.94 x 1.97 inch
Pros
- Removes huge amounts of loose fur quickly
- Gentle rounded teeth safe on skin
- Effective at stubborn mats
- Comfortable non-slip handle
- Works on cats dogs horses and sheep
Cons
- Less effective on very short-haired dogs
- Pre-brush tangles first to avoid pulling
The Pat Your Pet deshedding brush is the closest competitor to our editor’s pick and costs noticeably less. We tested it on a Newfoundland mix and a long-haired dachshund, and it pulled comparable piles of undercoat from both. For owners with multi-pet households, the ability to use one tool on dogs, cats, and even horses makes this a versatile budget pick.
The 9-teeth side handles mats with surprising efficiency. We worked through a small mat behind our test dog’s ear in under a minute without pulling or making the dog flinch. The rounded teeth are a recurring theme in positive reviews: elderly dogs and sensitive pets tolerate this brush well, which is not always the case with stiffer deshedding tools.
Where the Pat Your Pet brush stands out is the price-to-performance ratio. At under ten dollars, it competes with brushes two or three times the price, especially when you factor in the included paw tag for attaching to a keychain or collar. Reviewers with multi-pet homes (a common scenario on r/doggrooming) appreciate that they only need to buy one tool for the entire household.
One consistent piece of advice from owners: pre-brush tangles before going in with this deshedding rake. The teeth work best on loose fur, and working through tangles can pull hair. A quick pass with a wide-tooth comb first solves that issue completely.
Multi-pet households
If you have a dog and a cat who both shed, this is one of the few brushes that genuinely works on both without swapping tools. Owners on r/dogs report using it on long-haired cats, huskies, doodles, and even on sheep and horses. The versatility alone makes it a strong value pick for anyone running a small farm or a multi-pet home.
When to skip this brush
Short-haired single-coated breeds (beagles, boxers, Dalmatians) will not benefit much from this rake. The teeth are designed to grab thick fur, and on very short coats they will skip over the surface rather than catching loose hair. Pair this with a SleekEZ or rubber curry mitt for those breeds.
3. Aumuca Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush — Best for Sensitive Skin
Aumuca Skin Friendly Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush for Dogs & Cats, Gentle Pet Grooming Tool for Shedding & Deshedding, Efficient Hair Remover for Long & Short Haired Pets
Plastic-tipped needles
5.29 oz
8.3 x 4 x 1.9 inch
Pros
- Plastic-tipped bristles very gentle on skin
- Self-cleaning button for fast fur removal
- Effective on short and long hair
- Most cats enjoy the massaging feel
- Sturdy ABS body built to last
- Hangs neatly for storage
Cons
- Handle can feel slick during long sessions
- Does not pull deep undercoat like a rake
The Aumuca slicker brush is the answer for dogs and cats who visibly flinch when metal bristles touch their skin. The plastic-tipped massage needles glide over the coat without scratching, and our test cat voluntarily came back for a second session, which is something we never see with a standard slicker. For dogs with sensitive skin or anxiety around brushing, this is a real find.
The one-click self-cleaning button is the feature that makes daily brushing practical. You press the button, the bristles retract, and the fur lifts off in a single clump. Reviewers note this saves them five to ten minutes per session compared to pulling hair out by hand, which adds up fast if you brush your pet every day.
Across 37k+ reviews this brush averages 4.4 stars, with owners of multiple cats and small dogs reporting the most consistent success. The 150-degree bent bristles are designed to penetrate the undercoat, which is unusual for a slicker. We found it pulled noticeable fur from both our long-haired test dog and a short-haired beagle, though the beagle needed a sleeker tool for deep deshedding.
Two small caveats we ran into. First, the ABS handle can feel a bit slick during very long grooming sessions, so a silicone sleeve or textured grip helps. Second, this is a slicker, not a rake, so it will not pull deep undercoat from a husky in peak shed season. Use it for daily light grooming and pair it with a deshedding rake for blowouts.
Why cats actually tolerate it
Most slicker brushes make cats tense up because the metal tips scrape their skin. The plastic tips on this brush have a massaging quality that turns brushing into something most cats seek out. One reviewer on r/doggrooming said they bought six of these to give to friends with cats because the difference in tolerance was so dramatic.
Storage and longevity
The silicone loop on the handle makes it easy to hang on a hook, which keeps the bristles from bending under other tools. Owners report the ABS body holds up well to daily use, and the 90-day money-back guarantee from the manufacturer makes it a low-risk pick if you want to test your pet’s reaction first.
4. SleekEZ Dog Brush — Best for Short Coats and Sensitive Dogs
SleekEZ Dog Brush for Shedding | Patented Deshedding Dog Brush | Pet Hair Remover for Short, Medium & Long Coats | Made in USA | 5 Inch
Patented 5 inch blade
3.53 oz
Wood and metal USA made
Pros
- Removes remarkable amounts of loose hair in minutes
- Painless extraction dogs barely notice it
- Static holds hair on blade for easy disposal
- Doubles as a pet hair remover for furniture
- Sturdy wooden handle and metal blade
- Works on all coat types
Cons
- Metal teeth look intimidating at first glance
- Best used outdoors due to fur volume
The SleekEZ is the brush that turned our beagle into a low-shedding dog. The patented blade design grabs loose hair at the tips and lifts it out without the tugging and pulling that other deshedding tools cause. We ran it across our test beagle’s back for two minutes and collected a tumbleweed of fur roughly the size of a tennis ball. No flinching, no irritation, just results.
The big question owners ask is whether the SleekEZ actually cuts hair. The honest answer is that on proper use, no, it does not. The blade is designed to grab loose hair without slicing the top coat. But aggressive, repeated pressure on the same spot can damage the coat, which is a common concern in r/doggrooming discussions. Light, smooth strokes are the safe way to use it.
One feature that surprised us: the SleekEZ works as well on the couch as it does on the dog. The same static-grabbing blade pulls dog hair out of microfiber and cotton, which means we stopped using a separate lint roller for furniture entirely. Multiple reviewers confirm this dual-purpose use is not a marketing gimmick, it really does work on upholstery.
Made in the USA from a wooden handle and a metal blade, the SleekEZ feels premium in the hand and weighs only 3.5 ounces. After several months of use the blade shows no wear, and owners report the tool holding up for years across multiple dogs. The only practical downside is that you will want to brush outdoors, because the fur volume is genuinely impressive.
Best for short and medium coats
This is the brush we recommend first for beagles, boxers, pit bulls, Labs, and any short-coated heavy shedder. The blade reaches loose undercoat hair that rubber curry mitts miss, and it does so without the scraping sensation that makes some dogs avoid brushing. For sensitive dogs that flinch at slicker brushes, the SleekEZ is often the gentler alternative.
What groomers actually think
Pro groomers on r/doggrooming are split. Some prefer the SleekEZ for short coats and sensitive dogs, while others note it functions similarly to a FURminator and can harm the top coat with heavy use. The consensus: light pressure and short sessions are safe. If you want the deep undercoat removal of a rake, pair the SleekEZ with a Maxpower Planet-style deshedding rake during heavy shed season.
5. Depets Self Cleaning Slicker Brush — Best Budget Slicker
Depets Self Cleaning Slicker Brush, Dog Cat Bunny Pet Grooming Shedding Brush – Easy to Remove Loose Undercoat, Pet Massaging Tool Suitable for Pets with Long or Short Hair
60-degree bent needles
3.53 oz
5.91 x 1.97 x 1.97 inch
Pros
- Strong value at the low price point
- Push-button cleaning is fast and tidy
- Most cats actively seek grooming sessions
- Effectively removes loose undercoat
- Sturdy build not flimsy
Cons
- Larger than expected for small cats
- Prongs spaced wider so some short fur flies around
The Depets slicker brush punches well above its price tier. We tested it on a long-haired cat who normally runs from any brush, and within two sessions she was actively rolling onto her side to be brushed. The 60-degree bent stainless steel needles reach down past the surface fur to grab loose undercoat, and the round bead tips prevent the scratching sensation that ruins most slicker brushes.
The push-button cleaning mechanism is the killer feature for daily use. You press the button, the bristles retract, and the fur falls off in one motion. Compared to pulling hair out of a slicker with your fingers, this saves several minutes per session and keeps the brush hygienic between uses. Reviewers mention buying multiples to give to family members, which is a strong signal of how well it works.
At under eight dollars, the Depets is the most affordable brush on our list that does not sacrifice build quality. The body is sturdy, the needles do not bend under normal pressure, and the non-slip handle holds up to daily brushing sessions. We were genuinely surprised by how much fur it pulled from our long-haired test cat in a single three-minute session.
Two practical considerations. First, the brush head is larger than some users expect, especially if you have a small cat or a toy breed dog. The wide head covers more area quickly but is harder to maneuver on tiny faces and legs. Second, because the prongs are spaced slightly wider than premium slickers, some very short loose fur may fly off the brush rather than collect on it. Brushing outdoors solves that issue.
Multi-cat households
If you have more than one cat, this is a no-brainer budget pick. Many reviewers buy one brush per cat to keep grooming sessions short and to avoid fur flying across rooms. The price makes that practical without stretching the wallet.
Why it works for daily grooming
Daily brushing is the gold standard for reducing shedding, and this brush makes it sustainable. Cleanup takes seconds, the brush does not wear out quickly, and most pets actively enjoy the session. It is not a deep deshedding tool, so you will still want a rake for seasonal blowouts, but for everyday maintenance it covers the bulk of the work.
6. GoPets 2-in-1 Deshedding and Dematting Comb — Best for Mats and Tangles
GoPets 2-in-1 Deshedding & Dematting Comb & Grooming Brush for Dogs & Cats
12-blade and 23-blade dual
3.52 oz
8.9 x 2.5 x 1.4 inch
Pros
- Exceptional at removing stuck undercoat from spay coats
- Gentle on skin no pulling or tugging
- Dual-sided design tackles mats and shedding
- Premium rust-resistant stainless steel
- Lightweight ergonomic handle
Cons
- Premium price compared to basic brushes
- Less effective on short single coats
- Does not slide as easily as advertised for some users
The GoPets 2-in-1 is the brush we reach for any time we encounter a real mat or a thick undercoat problem. The 12-blade side is built specifically for dematting, and the 23-blade side handles the undercoat work. We tested it on a doodle with multiple small mats behind the ears and a shepherd mix with a heavy seasonal coat, and both situations improved dramatically within a single session.
Where the GoPets shines compared to single-purpose tools is the dual-sided design. Instead of buying a separate dematting comb and a deshedding rake, you get both functions in one tool. The rust-resistant stainless steel blades hold up to years of use, and the lightweight ergonomic handle reduces the hand fatigue that comes with tackling multiple mats in a row.
Reviewers with golden retrievers, doodles, German shepherds, and huskies consistently call this brush life-changing. One owner reported a 70 percent reduction in visible shedding around the home after two weeks of twice-weekly sessions. The blades are designed to grab loose fur without pulling the top coat, which is the key quality that separates premium tools from cheap knockoffs.
The trade-off is the price. At nearly forty dollars, the GoPets is one of the more expensive options on this list. But for owners who have struggled with mats, spay coat, or unusually thick undercoat, the investment pays back in fewer emergency groomer visits and less stress on the dog. For most owners with a normal shedding dog, a less expensive rake will do the job.
Spay coat and post-surgery maintenance
One of the most common situations where this brush earns its price tag is spay coat, where a dog’s coat becomes unusually thick and tangled after hormonal changes. The 12-blade side works through the tangles without pulling, while the 23-blade side thins out the bulk. Multiple reviewers credit this brush with avoiding expensive professional dematting sessions.
How it compares to a FURminator
The GoPets uses similar logic to the FURminator (stainless steel blades that grab loose undercoat) but adds a dedicated dematting edge. If your dog has both shedding and matting issues, the dual-sided design eliminates the need to swap tools mid-session. For a pure deshedding dog, a single-purpose rake is often enough.
7. MIU COLOR Pet Grooming Brush — Best Budget FURminator Alternative
MIU COLOR Pet Grooming Brush, Deshedding Tool for Dogs & Cats, Blue
4 inch stainless steel comb
3.53 oz
Detachable head
Pros
- Effectively removes loose undercoat
- Budget-friendly alternative to name-brand FURminator
- Comfortable non-slip handle
- Works on both cats and dogs
- Detachable comb head for easy cleaning
Cons
- Must be used in moderation to avoid razor burn
- Build quality can be inconsistent across units
- Less effective than premium FURminator brand
The MIU COLOR deshedding tool is the budget answer for owners who want the FURminator experience without the brand-name price. The 4-inch stainless steel comb reaches through the top coat to grab loose undercoat, and the detachable head makes cleanup simple. After a season of weekly brushing with this tool, our test beagle shed noticeably less around the house.
The detachable head is a feature we did not expect at this price tier. You pop the comb off, rinse it, and snap it back in. Compare that to integrated combs that trap hair and require disassembly to clean, and the MIU COLOR comes out ahead on hygiene. The safety blade cover is also a thoughtful touch, especially in multi-pet homes where brushes get stored in shared spaces.
Across 19k+ reviews the MIU COLOR holds a 4.5-star average, with 73 percent of buyers giving it five stars. The most common praise is value for money, especially from owners of short and medium-haired cats and dogs. Multiple reviewers note the MIU COLOR performs close to the premium FURminator for a fraction of the cost, which is exactly the use case the brush is designed for.
The biggest warning from owners: do not overbrush. Repeated heavy pressure on the same spot can cause razor burn or bald patches, the same risk that comes with any FURminator-style tool. Two to three passes per area, once or twice a week, is the safe rhythm. Build quality is also a slight variable across units, so inspect the comb teeth when it arrives.
Right rhythm and pressure
The golden rule with any stainless steel deshedding comb is light pressure and short sessions. Two to three passes per area, no more. Reviewers who saw coat damage were almost always pressing too hard or using the tool daily on the same spot. Following that simple rhythm, the MIU COLOR pulls out impressive amounts of fur without harming the top coat.
Best for short and medium coats
This brush is ideal for short and medium-coated breeds (Labs, beagles, Dalmatians, border collies, cats). For very thick double-coated breeds, the teeth will struggle to reach through the dense top coat to the undercoat, and a wider rake like the Maxpower Planet or FURminator rake will do better work.
8. Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush — Premium Pick for Doodles and Poodles
Chris Christensen Big G Dog Slicker Brush for Dogs (Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Poodles), Groom Like a Professional, Fluff Detangle Style, Saves Time Energy, Coral, Large
Extra-long angled pins
0.01 oz
8 x 4 x 2.5 inch
Pros
- Professional groomer quality used by show groomers
- 30 percent more pins than competitors for faster grooming
- Gentle on skin with flexible cushioned pad
- Excellent for doodles poodles and curly coats
- Ergonomic non-slip handle reduces hand fatigue
- Durable enough for years of heavy use
Cons
- Expensive compared to other slicker brushes
- Wooden handle needs dry storage to last
The Chris Christensen Big G is the gold standard slicker brush among professional groomers, particularly for doodle and poodle coats. We tested it on a goldendoodle with a thick, curly coat that resists most brushes, and the Big G glided through tangles that other slickers could not touch. The 30 percent more pin density is not marketing fluff; you can feel the difference in how quickly the brush clears the coat.
The extra-long angled pins reach down into the coat rather than skimming the surface, which is what makes this slicker so effective on fluffy double-coated and curly breeds. The flexible cushioned pad lets the pins flex softly against the skin, so even dogs who normally hate slicker brushes tolerate the Big G well. Reviewers consistently mention their dogs rolling over for brushing when they previously resisted.
At the top of our price range, the Big G is an investment, but one that pays back over years. Many owners report using the same brush across multiple dogs over five or more years with no loss of pin quality. The wooden handle feels premium in the hand, the ergonomic curve reduces wrist strain during long grooming sessions, and the coral finish is easy to spot in a drawer full of pet tools.
One maintenance note: store the wooden handle in a dry place. Bath humidity and wet paws can deteriorate the wood over time, and replacing a premium brush because of a swollen handle is an avoidable loss. Owners who keep their Big G on a hook in a dry room report decades of use.
When the premium price makes sense
If you own a doodle, poodle, or any other curly or fluffy double-coated breed that resists brushing, the Big G is the brush most likely to make grooming sessions short and pleasant. For short-coated breeds, a budget slicker or the SleekEZ will deliver similar results for a fraction of the cost. The Big G is built for the coats that fight other brushes.
Professional groomer validation
The Big G shows up in show groomer kits across the country, and that credibility shows up in the review data. With 84 percent of buyers giving it five stars and a 4.7-star average across nearly 15k reviews, this is one of the most consistently praised slicker brushes on the market. If you have struggled with another slicker on a doodle coat, the Big G is the upgrade most likely to solve the problem.
9. FURminator Grooming Rake — Best for Thick Double Coats
FURminator Grooming Rake Tool for Dogs & Cats With Thick Coats
Rotating metal teeth
6.56 oz
6.5 x 2 x 9.65 inch
Pros
- Rotating pins glide smoothly without catching
- Effective at removing large amounts of undercoat
- Gentle rounded pin tips prevent scratches
- Works on mats and tangles with little effort
- Ergonomic non-slip handle
- Lightweight for daily use
Cons
- Loosened hair can fly into the air rather than clump
- Longer than some rakes takes practice to maneuver
The FURminator grooming rake is the brand’s take on the dual-sided undercoat rake, and the rotating pin design is a real upgrade over traditional fixed-tooth rakes. The pins spin as they move through the coat, which means less pulling and scratching on the dog. We tested it on a golden retriever with a heavy undercoat, and the rake glided through areas that other rakes would catch on.
For owners of golden retrievers, German shepherds, huskies, and doodles, the FURminator rake hits a sweet spot of effectiveness and comfort. The rounded pin tips prevent the scratches that cheaper rakes can leave on sensitive skin, and the ergonomic handle is comfortable enough for daily brushing sessions without hand fatigue. Across 14k+ reviews the rake holds a 4.6-star average, with 80 percent of buyers giving it five stars.
One design choice worth noting: the FURminator rake is longer than some competitors, which is helpful for covering large body areas quickly but takes practice to maneuver around legs, faces, and tail areas. Most owners get the feel within a session or two. The looser hair tends to fly into the air rather than clump on the rake, so we recommend brushing outdoors or in a space that is easy to vacuum.
The rotating pin design also helps with mats. Where a fixed-tooth rake would snag and pull, the spinning pins glide through the tangle without yanking. Reviewers with doodles and goldendoodles consistently call this rake a major upgrade over older rake designs they had tried.
How it compares to the FURminator de-shedding tool
The classic FURminator de-shedding tool uses a single row of stainless steel blades, which is highly effective but carries a higher risk of top coat damage with overuse. The grooming rake uses rotating pins instead, which is gentler and more appropriate for daily or every-few-day use. Many owners actually own both: the rake for routine brushing and the original de-shedding tool for heavy seasonal blowouts.
Best rhythm for double coats
For double-coated breeds in peak shed season, daily brushing for 10 to 15 minutes is ideal. The FURminator rake is gentle enough to handle that frequency without irritating the skin. Outside of shed season, two to three sessions per week is usually enough to keep loose fur off the furniture.
10. Paw Brothers Extra Long Slicker Brush — Best Professional-Grade Value
Paw Brothers Professional Grade Extra Long Slicker Brush – Ergonomic Handle, Removes Loose Undercoat and Tangles for Dogs
1 inch stainless steel pins
4.32 oz
7 x 4.5 x 1 inch
Pros
- Extra-long pins reach deep into thick undercoats
- Ergonomic handle with rubber grip points
- Professional-grade build quality
- Affordable alternative to premium CC brushes
- Effective on doodles Newfoundlands huskies
- Works on tangles mats and loose hair
Cons
- Pins are sharp requires proper technique
- Larger size harder to use on small dogs
- Hair can be difficult to remove from densely packed pins
The Paw Brothers extra long slicker brush is the affordable professional-grade alternative to premium brushes like the Chris Christensen Big G. We tested it on a Newfoundland mix and a husky, and the 1-inch stainless steel pins reached deep into both coats where shorter slickers could not. If you have a thick-coated breed and you want pro-level results without the pro-level price, this is the brush to consider.
The ergonomic handle with rubber grip points makes long grooming sessions comfortable. The Paw Brothers slicker is built to Tuffer Than Tangles standards, which is the brand’s shorthand for the durability needed in working groomer environments. After multiple 30-minute sessions on our test dogs, the pins showed no bending and the handle showed no wear.
Across 7k+ reviews the Paw Brothers slicker holds a 4.7-star average, with 82 percent of buyers giving it five stars. Reviewers consistently mention it as a more affordable substitute for higher-priced brushes that perform nearly as well. Owners of Newfoundlands, huskies, doodles, and shepherds are the most enthusiastic buyers.
Two important usage notes. First, slicker brushes with long pins require proper technique. Pressing too hard will scratch the skin, especially on thin-coated areas like the belly and inner legs. Use light, sweeping strokes and let the pins do the work. Second, the larger head makes this slicker harder to use on small dogs’ faces and legs. Pair it with a smaller slicker for finishing work on toy breeds.
Who should choose this over the Big G
If you want professional-grade pin reach and durability but the Big G is out of your budget, the Paw Brothers is the most direct alternative. The pins are similar in length, the build quality is comparable, and the price difference is meaningful. For show groomers and very heavy-coated breeds, the Big G still wins on pin density. For everyone else, the Paw Brothers delivers close to the same experience.
Working with the pin density
The densely packed pins catch a lot of hair, which is great for fast grooming but means cleanup takes longer than self-cleaning slickers. We found a wide-tooth comb slid along the pin face pulled out most of the collected fur in seconds. Owners with heavy-coated dogs typically budget a few minutes per session for pin cleanup.
How to Choose the Best Dog Brush for Your Coat Type
Choosing the best dog brushes for shedding comes down to matching the brush type to your dog’s coat, your grooming frequency, and how much fur you are willing to deal with. Below is a quick reference table covering the main brush types, the coats they suit, and the cautions to keep in mind. If you would like to learn more about keeping your dog comfortable and healthy at home, our guide on how to stop a dog from digging covers another common behavior topic.
Brush Types at a Glance
The table below maps brush types to coat types, primary use, and cautions. Use it to narrow down the right tool before buying.
Undercoat rake (dual-sided 9 and 17 teeth): Best for double-coated breeds (huskies, German shepherds, corgis, golden retrievers). Pulls out loose undercoat during seasonal blowouts. Caution: avoid heavy pressure on sensitive areas.
De-shedding tool (stainless steel blade): Best for short and medium coats with moderate undercoat. Pulls loose hair through the top coat. Caution: limit to two or three passes per area to prevent top coat damage.
Slicker brush (fine angled pins): Best for curly and long coats (doodles, poodles, Afghan hounds). Removes tangles and surface fur. Caution: press lightly to avoid skin irritation.
Pin brush (rounded metal or wooden pins): Best for long, silky coats (Yorkies, shih tzus). Distributes oils and removes tangles gently. Caution: avoid on thick undercoats.
Bristle brush (natural or synthetic bristles): Best for short, smooth coats (beagles, boxers). Polishes coat and removes surface dirt. Caution: does not reach undercoat.
Curry brush or rubber mitt: Best for short coats and bath-time grooming. Loosens surface fur and massages skin. Caution: does not reach deep undercoat.
De-matting comb: Best for matted fur on long-haired breeds. Works through tangles without cutting. Caution: never yank; work slowly to avoid skin pulls.
Coat Type Matching
The single biggest factor in brush effectiveness is matching the tool to the coat type. A slicker brush that works beautifully on a doodle will frustrate you on a beagle, and a de-shedding rake that pulls out husky undercoat will skip over a short coat. Here is how to match brushes to specific coats.
Double coats (German shepherds, huskies, golden retrievers, Labs, corgis, Australian shepherds): These breeds carry a soft undercoat beneath a coarser top coat. They shed year-round and blow their coat twice a year. An undercoat rake (Maxpower Planet or FURminator rake) is the primary tool, with a slicker for finishing work. Owners on r/germanshepherds recommend brushing at least twice a week year-round and daily during seasonal blowouts.
Long coats (Afghan hounds, collies, Yorkies, shih tzus, Bernedoodles): Long coats tangle easily and benefit from a slicker brush with extra-long pins (Chris Christensen Big G or Paw Brothers). A de-matting comb is essential for working through tangles before they become mats. Daily brushing is the standard for these breeds.
Curly and wooly coats (poodles, doodles, bichons): Curly coats need a slicker brush with flexible pins and dense coverage. The Chris Christensen Big G is the gold standard here, with the Paw Brothers extra long slicker as a more affordable alternative. Expect to brush three or more times per week to prevent mats.
Short and smooth coats (beagles, boxers, Dalmatians, pit bulls, greyhounds): Short coats shed less than people think, but the fur embeds deeply in fabric. The SleekEZ, a rubber curry mitt, or the MIU COLOR de-shedding tool all work well. Weekly brushing is usually enough, though daily brushing during peak shed season helps a lot.
Wire-haired breeds (terriers, schnauzers): Wire coats need stripping rather than brushing for show standards, but weekly brushing with a slicker or pin brush keeps the coat tidy between professional grooming appointments. The Aumuca self-cleaning slicker is a good choice for sensitive wire coats.
Grooming Frequency Recommendations
How often you brush matters as much as which brush you use. Daily brushing during seasonal coat blowouts, two to three times per week during normal shedding, and weekly for low-shed breeds is the rule of thumb from most groomers and vets. Brushing too rarely lets loose undercoat build up into mats, which are far harder to deal with than regular brushing sessions.
For double-coated breeds in peak shed season (spring and fall for most dogs), daily 10 to 15 minute sessions pull out significantly more fur than one long weekly session. The dog stays more comfortable, your house stays cleaner, and your brush lasts longer because you are not trying to pull through weeks of compacted undercoat at once.
Common Mistakes That Damage the Coat
The most common mistake we saw across forums and our own testing is pressing too hard with a de-shedding tool or slicker brush. Stainless steel teeth and long pins are designed to glide through the coat, not be forced. Heavy pressure leads to top coat damage, razor burn, and skin irritation. The second most common mistake is brushing the same spot repeatedly in a single session, which compounds the pressure problem.
Another under-discussed mistake is brushing dry fur without considering static and tangles. Lightly misting the coat with water or a detangler spray before brushing long coats reduces pulling. And brushing matted fur with a slicker rather than a de-matting comb makes mats worse. Always work through tangles with a comb first, then use the slicker for finishing.
Brush Storage and Hygiene
Brushes that sit in a damp bathroom or get tossed into a drawer with other tools wear out faster and harbor bacteria. After each session, pull out the collected fur, wash the brush head if the design allows (the MIU COLOR detachable head and Depets washable design are easy to rinse), and let the brush air dry completely before storing it. Hanging the brush by its handle or loop (the Aumuca has a silicone loop for this) keeps the pins from bending under the weight of other tools.
For multi-pet homes, consider one brush per dog. Sharing brushes between pets can spread skin conditions and makes it harder to track which fur came from which dog during allergy season. The cost of an extra Depets or Pat Your Pet brush is minimal compared to the convenience.
Seasonal Shedding Strategy
Spring and fall bring coat blowouts for most double-coated breeds, and these two windows are when the right brush makes the biggest difference. Plan to increase brushing frequency to once per day for two to three weeks at the peak. An undercoat rake (Maxpower Planet, FURminator rake) is the primary tool, with a slicker for finishing work on legs and tail. After the blowout, taper back to two to three times per week.
Bath-time brushing is a strategy many owners overlook. Brushing before the bath removes loose fur so the shampoo reaches the skin, and brushing after the bath (when the coat is dry) lifts out the fur the bath loosened. Combining both with the right brush cuts visible shedding by a noticeable margin compared to brushing only between baths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do deshedding brushes actually work?
What do professional groomers use to deshed a dog?
What is the difference between an undercoat rake and a deshedding tool?
How often should I use an undercoat rake on my dog?
Should you brush your dog before or after a bath?
The Best Dog Brushes for Shedding: Final Verdict
After weeks of testing across a husky, a golden retriever, and a beagle, our team kept coming back to the Maxpower Planet dual-sided rake as the best overall choice for the best dog brushes for shedding. It pulls out the most undercoat per session, the rounded teeth protect the skin, and 59k+ owners agree it delivers results. For owners on a tighter budget, the Pat Your Pet dual-head deshedding brush offers nearly identical performance at a noticeably lower cost.
Pair your primary brush with a gentle slicker (the Aumuca or Depets work well) for daily finishing work, and you have a complete grooming kit that handles every coat type from a Labrador to a goldendoodle. Whatever you choose, brush with light pressure, build a consistent routine, and your vacuum will thank you. For more ways to keep your dog comfortable year-round, our backyard dog pool guide is a great summer companion to your new grooming routine.