10 Most Outstanding Dog Brushes for Shedding in 2021

Almost all dogs shed to some degree, but some of them really shed. If you own such a dog, you will have to get a pet hair vacuum so that you do not find yourself surrounded by an ocean of dog fur. Most importantly, though, you will need a trustworthy shedding brush, and in this article, we will be discussing the 10 most outstanding dog brushes for shedding in 2021

Introduction to Dog Brushes on Shedding:

Almost all dogs shed to some degree, but some of them really shed. If you own such a dog, you will have to get a pet hair vacuum so that you do not find yourself surrounded by an ocean of dog fur. Most importantly, though, you will need a trustworthy shedding brush, and in this article, we will be discussing the 10 most outstanding dog brushes for shedding in 2021. These brushes are tailor-made for dogs that shed regularly or dogs that blow their coats on a seasonal basis.

What Causes Shedding and How Can A Shedding Brush Help?

A healthy dog uses shedding to rid itself of any damaged, old, or unwanted hair from its undercoat. Several breeds develop thicker coats during the winter and then get rid of them during the spring in order to regulate their body temperatures more efficiently.

Remember that shedding is healthy as long as it is happening in a uniform fashion throughout the body, and is not leading to any missing fur patches. As we mentioned, the spring is the most common time for a dog to shed, since that is the period when it starts to rid itself of all the extra insulation developed during the winter. The fall or autumn is another common shedding time, as the new undercoat starts to develop and removes the older hair to keep them protected from the approaching cold weather.

Often, excessive shedding might be caused by food sensitivities, or if your dog is not getting the nutrients needed for a healthy coat. According to DVM Roy Cruzen on PetMD.com, “The number one reason for excessive shedding is a poor diet. People go to stores, buy a 40-pound bag of cheap food, and then see their pets’ shedding increase. Even though the food meets the minimum quality requirements, it may not have enough animal protein or minerals to maintain your dog’s health.” So, as a dog owner, you need to ensure that you are using the kind of foods that sit well with your pet and fulfill all vitamin and mineral requirements. Dehydration is another cause of excessive shedding, so you also need to make sure that your dog is getting ample amounts of clean and fresh water.

If your female dog is expecting, they might be lacking certain minerals or vitamins needed for a healthy coat. In pregnancies, dogs can not only shed excessively but also shed during midseason and in the days and weeks after giving birth.

At times, excessive shedding can be a sign of a medical issue. Sunburn, stress, fungal infections, or parasites are some of the most common problems that might cause excessive hair loss in your dog. Additionally, if there is a thyroid imbalance, it can cause hormonal issues that might lead to brittle hair and inflamed skin. Also, if your dog has any kind of skin allergies, the chronic condition might cause inflammation and loss of hair and itchiness. The more the scratching, the higher the quantity of hair that your dog will pull from its coat. So, if you find that your dog is shedding an abnormal amount of hair or if the hair is being lost in patches, you should take your best friend for a complete medical checkup.

When you use a shedding brush regularly, you are ensuring that any loose hair finds their way to the brush, instead of scattering across your furniture or floor. Even though there are numerous types of shedding brushes for dogs available, the best ones are rectangular in shape and contain thin metal bristles. This kind of brushes can reach deep into your dog’s undercoat and securely filter out any unneeded or dead hair. Almost all of these shedding dog brushes can be used on a variety of coats, which is highly beneficial if you have multiple dogs.

Types of Shedding Brushes:

You might feel that the only way to effectively perform your dog’s shedding is through complicated tools – let us assure you, that is not the case. In fact, according to Barbara Bird, who is a certified groomer with a practice in Arizona, “Professional groomers are using the same grooming tools as owners.” Here are three of the most common types of shedding brushes:

1. Wide-toothed combs: As the name suggests, wide-toothed combs are those that contain teeth that are widely separated. These combs are usually made of metal or plastic.
2. Blade-on-a-handle metal comb: This type of comb is usually part of the newer de-shedding tools, like the Furminator or the FurBuster.
3. Brushes:
4. Bristle brushes: These brushes appear familiar, and have bristles that are either natural or synthetic. A bristle brush is used on dogs that smooth and short coats (more on this later). The tightly-packed clusters of natural bristles help remove dead hair and lead to skin stimulation.
5. Pin brushes: This brush is shaped pretty much like a bristle brush, but contains metal or wooden pins rather than bristles. Even though this type of brush might help to grab loose hair or provide finishing for a brushed coat, it will not be much beneficial for your dog.
6. Rubber brushes: Available in multiple shapes; every rubber brush contains rubber tines. This brush type is specifically suitable for short-haired pups with significant shedding. The rubber functions like a magnet and attracts all the loose hair, while the soft pins massage the skin, increasing blood flow and spreading the healthy oils.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Shedding Brush for Dogs:

1) The type of coat:

Perhaps the first thing you need to consider before starting your search for a shedding brush, is the kind of coat and hair that your dog possesses. Hair and coat type varies from breed to breed, which means that every breed will require different grooming ways and tools.

Remember that there is no dog in the world that does not shed. The only difference lies in the amount of hair that is produced. While some dogs shed more than others, a dog that does not shed at all is simply a myth.

So, if you own a dog that has a short and smooth coat – like a Husky or a Golden Retriever – they will probably not shed as much as a German Shepherd. Nevertheless, you should still brush the coat, as it will help distribute the natural oils, eliminate thorns and brambles, and ensure healthy skin.

Dogs possessing short and smooth – and even medium – will not require much more than a simple bristle brush. As a rule of thumb, the more coarse the hair, the more stiff your brush will have to be.

If you own an Afghan Hound, Irish Setter, a Yorkshire terrier, or any other breed with long hair, you will need a slicker or wire-pin brush alongside the regular bristle brush discussed above. These brushes will reach down to the undercoat that such breeds have along with their longer top coats.

2) Material:

Make sure that the de-shedder has the kind of teeth, body, and handle that will not wear out with frequent use. Like with all products, a high-quality brush is more likely to last longer than its cheaper, poor-quality counterparts. Although these premium shedding brushes and tools might feel expensive at the time of purchase, their durability will make them a better investment in the long run.

You also need to check the material and ensure that it will not damage your pet’s coat or skin. The best options are chew-proof, hardwearing materials – such as pet-safe plastics – along with handles that are slip-proof. For the bristles or teeth of the brush, you should consider going with stainless steel.

3) Design:

While you do not want to compromise on durability, you also need to make sure that your de-shedder tool has an ergonomic and a lightweight handle so that you can hold and use it comfortably and not strain your wrist or arms.

4) Size:

The de-shedder should not be too big or too small for your dog and the type of fur that it possesses. The brush should be sufficiently large so that it can penetrate the fur, but at the same time it should also be small enough to be used efficiently and quickly throughout your pooch’s body.

5) Ease of usage:

This factor is particularly important if you are owner to a dog that is grooming-adverse. Not only should you be able to hold and use the de-shedder with ease, but, once you are done using it, it should also be easily cleanable so that you can rid it of every last bit of dirt and hair. Find de-shedding tools that clean bristles or teeth, alongside redactable teeth that will deposit the loose hair and dirt on your hand so that you can immediately dispose of it.

10 Most Outstanding Dog Brushes for Shedding in 2021:

1) Pet Grooming Tool – 2-Sided Undercoat Rake for Dogs and Cats:

The dual head means that you can use the side with nine teeth for mats, while the 17 teeth side can be utilized for de-shedding and thinning.

You can use safely use this shedding brush for your dog – the outside teeth are no-scratch rounded and will massage your pet’s skin in a soft and gentle manner. In fact, you will not have to worry about shedding in the first place if you use this brush regularly on your dog to get rid of any dead undercoat.

With skin massage, your pup will benefit from better blood circulation and a glittering, healthy coat. This pet grooming tool works equally well on long- and medium-haired pets, and is as effective for double-layer coats as it is for single-layered ones. Thanks to its removable coat, the brush can endure even the toughest of coats without causing any pain or discomfort to your pup.

This brush comes with an ergonomic grip that is soft and anti-slip, which means that you can frequently comb your dog’s hair without any sort of inconvenience. Moreover, with the rust-free stainless steel, you can be assured of durability and easy cleaning.

Pros

2-in-1 head; can be used for shedding and mat cleaning.

Safe for pets.

Easy and comfortable to use.

Cons

The knot might be hard to move in some cases.

2) SleekEZ Original Grooming Tool for Dogs, Cats, and Horses:

This patented SleekEZ product is considered to be world’s top de-shedding tool for dogs and other animals. This Wave Pattern Blade has been designed to dirt, fur, and dander in a gentle manner.

If you think that regular de-shedding is a real headache, you are in for a pleasant surprise once you start using the SleekEZ de-shedding brush for dogs. The brush contains tiny teeth that are configured in a distinctive wave and tooth pattern. The product operates by taking hold of the hair tips and extracting them from the skin without causing any kind of pain or discomfort to your pet. In other words, your pet is going to love the SleekEZ.

Since the hair are collected in neat rows along the teeth blades, they fall to the ground in neat piles and allow for easy cleanup once you are done. This means that you will not have to go through the hassle of pulling hair from the brush.

The SleekEZ brush is highly versatile, and will also work effectively on carpeting, cars, saddle pads, pet bedding, and furniture. Hence, it is safe to say that this SleekEZ tool will be solving more than just one problem for you, making it a really worthwhile investment.

Pros

One of the top de-shedding tools across the world.

Makes de-shedding easy and painless.

Ergonomic handle and easy cleaning.

Versatile; has a wide range of applications.

Cons

Some users have complained that the brush does not pick enough fur.

3) GoPets Dematting Comb for Cats and Dogs:

A quality and professional de-matting and grooming tool, this GoPets product can help your dogs attained a professionally groomed appearance within minutes.

This dual-sided pet comb has a lower intensity side, which can be used to remove rake from stubborn tangles and mats. The high intensity side, meanwhile, is the one you will be using on your pet to get rid of any loose hairs and keep their de-shedding in check.

Also, this grooming tool is not only effective as an undercoat comb or a de-shedder, but it is also usable as matt cutter and comber.

Armed with sharp teeth, this pet grooming tool makes sure that the hair is not pulled, leading to a pleasant shedding experience for both you and your pet. Moreover, the rounded ends mean that it will not irritate, scratch, or damage sensitive skin when used as a brush for undercoats. The handle is made up of silicone gel and is completely non-slip, allowing for a comfortable grip regardless of how you hold it.

Pros

Professional tool.

Can be used for multiple purposes.

Makes shedding pleasant and comfortable.

Cons

Some people claim that there is little or no difference between the two rake sides.

4) WAHL Premium for Sensitive Skins:

The unique pin design comprising of dual levels is perfect for safely eliminating top, mid, and low-level fur, while ensuring that your dog’s delicate skin remains undamaged. Thanks to the large size of the head, you can cover substantial amounts of hair in one go.

Not only will routine brushing help in keeping your pet’s hair tidy and free of tangles, but it will also lead to healthier skin through the stimulation of blood flow, distribution of natural oils, and the removal of dead hair. You can also get rid of dirt or dust that could cause infections or irritation.

The clipper, shampoo, and trimmer which accompany this brush are perfect for your pet’s grooming, and, with the help of these products, you can take care of your pet’s grooming all by yourself.

Pros

Pin design for delicate skins.

Helps improve skin health.

Comes with additional grooming products.

Cons

The cleaning of bristles might be a bit complicated.

5) DakPets Pet Grooming Brush:

This product has been designed and developed by grooming experts specializing in animal care. As a result, the DakPets brush is capable of reducing shedding in cats and dogs of any age, by as much as95%. In other words, you can stop worrying about unsightly fur or hair sprayed throughout your home, beds, and vehicles. This significant reduction in shedding will lead to a reduction in grooming tool purchases and veterinarian visits, which will ultimately save you hundreds of dollars in the long run.

The DakPets brushes are available in multiple colors (pink, yellow, and blue), but more importantly, they are accompanied by a 60-day warranty. This means that, in case you are unhappy with the product, you can return it to the company and get a replacement or a refund without having to answer any questions.

The brush has been designed using stainless steel that is completely irritation-free, and contains a safe blade that helps prolong the blades’ useful life. Hence, you will not only be keeping your pet’s coat from being irritated, but you will also be promoting smoother, softer, shinier, and stronger coat and skin. The robust stem-handle is as hard to break as it is easy to grip. Furthermore, the DakPets shedding brush can be used for dogs and cats of all sizes, and, with regular use, you can prevent shedding in the first place and make sure that your house does not become a pool of hair and dirt.

Pros

Designed by animal grooming experts.

Made from irritation-free products.

Easy to grip.

60-day, no questions asked warranty.

Cons

Might not work well on young German Shepherds.

6) FURminator De-shedding Tool for Dogs:

FURminator is one of the most popular brands when it comes to pet grooming products. This particular de-shedding tool has been made using stainless steel, and the de-shedding edge effectively makes its way through your pets’ topcoats and eliminates any loose hair.

This de-shedder is a special FURrejector button, which you can press as soon as you want to release hair. This button makes it easy to get rid of any unwanted hair. As long as you are using the tool according to directions, you can rest assured that your pet will not suffer a damaged skin or coat.

The handle is robust yet soft, which means that you can grip it any way you want without having to worry about breakage.

All in all, the FURminator de-shedding tool is an ideal choice for large-sized dogs (weighing between 51 and 90 pounds) that possess long hair.

Pros

A renowned brand.

Stainless steel edge for removing loose hair.

FURrejector button for hair releasing.

Good for larger dogs.

Cons

Will not work well with small or medium dogs.

7) Bonve Pet Grooming Brush and De-shedding Tool for Dogs and Cats:

This de-shedding tool is effective and quick at getting rid of substantial amounts of dead hair, loose hair, dander, and dirt, that often settle in the deepest layers of animal coats. In other words, this tool is perfect for your furry buddy during their shedding periods.

The smooth teeth and sufficient thickness ensure that this Bonve product will not damage your pet’s coat or skin in any way. Additionally, stainless steel is highly durable, giving this grooming tool a lengthy useful life.

The ergonomic handle has been designed using environmentally friendly silicone, and will allow a firm yet comfortable grip without the possibility of slipping. This means that you can grip the tool every which way you want to ensure effective and comprehensive de-shedding. You also do not need to fret about the cleaning – once you are done with the grooming, simply grab a cloth and a tiny brush (even a toothbrush will do) and clean it. You can even detach the blade and store it.

Pros

Reduces shedding up to 95%.

Safe and durable.

Ergonomic and robust handle.

Easy to clean.

Cons

Some dogs might feel uncomfortable with this tool.

8) Oster ShedMonster De-Shedding Tool:

This tool has been designed by some of the top experts in the pet grooming arena, and, unsurprisingly, this product is capable of reducing shedding by as much as 90%. It sheds a large amount of fur and hair in an extremely short time, and is capable of getting rid of tangles and any loose fur. These features make it the ideal choice for dogs with medium or long coats.

Designed with smooth edges, your pup will love getting de-shredded with tool, since it is highly comfortable and will not irritate your pet’s skin. This means that you will not have to beg your dog to stay still while you brush them – the gentle and light strokes will be all too welcoming for your pet. The smoothness of this brush even makes some pets get comfortable enough to fall asleep, which means that you can perform your brushing and de-shedding work in peace.

The handle is extremely ergonomic and non-slip, and has been designed to ensure greater comfort and control.

Pros

Reduces shedding by 90%.

Eliminates tangles and loose fur.

The edges are smooth and cause no skin irritation.

Ergonomic and strong handle.

Cons

Not suitable for German Shepherds.

9) PetCraft Supply Brush Tool:

Designed using stainless steel, the brush is immune to rusting, while the blade cover will ensure a lengthy lifespan for the blade.

This highly efficient grooming and shedding tool can remove up to 95% loose and dead hair from your pet’s coat, in a mere few minutes. As a result, your dog or cat can enjoy a coat and skin that is smooth and soft.

The self-cleaning feature is one of the standout points about the PetCraft Supply tool. All you need to do is press a button, and see the bristles go back into the brush, leading to easy hair removal.

The handle is extremely ergonomic, bragging a comfortable grip and a surface that is anti-slip, which means that you can hold and use the brush conveniently and make sure that you target the precise regions on your pet’s coat and skin. When you use it according to directions, you will be able to remove the topcoat and loose hair without causing any damage like cutting the skin or damaging the coat.

This highly versatile brush tool is suitable for all kinds of pets – be it dogs or cats, long hair or short hair, thin coats or thick coats, and even pets with sensitive skins. It is also available in two distinct sizes (small and large), and you can purchase the size that best suits your dog or cat.

Pros

Durable.

Gets rid of up to 95% of loose hair within minutes.

Capable of self-cleaning.

Safe for pets.

Versatile – can be used for dogs and cats of all types.

Cons

Some users have had problems with the cleaning feature.

10) FURminator Curry Comb with Rubber Teeth:

FURminator is a company that prides itself on being an innovator in the pet grooming industry, enabling it to understand the entire cycle and importance of shedding. This product is highly effective at getting rid of loose hair and dirt from your pet’s skin and coat.

Moreover, the teeth made of molded rubber have been especially designed to trigger the production of natural oils and improve coat health. Generally, dogs tolerate this brush really well and this product can be used on a wide variety of dogs, such as Labradors, Chihuahuas, Beagles, and Dachshunds. This FURminator brush is particularly good for dogs having medium or short coats.

The handle is ergonomic, and will feel comfortable and secure in your grip. This means that you can hold it any way you want and make sure that you perform the perfect de-shedding job for your pets.

Pros

Eliminates loose hair and dust.

Molded rubber teeth for promoting the production of natural oils.

Ergonomic, safe, and secure handle.

Ideal for pets with medium or short coats.

Cons

The strap is not adjustable.

FAQs About Dog Brushes for Shedding:

Q1) How do I use a dog brush for shedding?

You start by making sure that the angle of the brush’s teeth is aligned with the direction of your dog’s coat. To put it differently, you need to start from the head and go towards the tail. The next step is using long but gentle strokes for eliminating hair from the teeth. You should use the brush in a uniform manner, but also make sure that you are particularly gentle when targeting sensitive areas like the legs, stomach, ears, and the genital region.

Q2) Can you use the brush daily or only when there is matting?

Yes, you can use the brush every day – in fact, it is recommended. When you brush the coat frequently, it helps you manage the shedding in a more effective manner. On the other hand, if you only use the brush during matting, you will have to deal with a substantial amount of loose and dead hair, as well as fur and dirt. Hence, you should ideally brush your dog daily, or at least on alternate days.

Q3) Would I need the short hair tool or the long hair tool for a full-blooded lab?

If you have a pure-bred lab, we suggest that you go with a tool designed for short hair. This is because the broad majority of pure-bred labs have coats that are short and dense. The Labrador’s hair are also usually straight and short, thus further warranting the need for short hair tools. Also, if you own a dog with short coats, you should make sure of regular brushing with the use of a hound mitt, a bristle brush, or even a glove that has bristles attached to it. You should start by loosening the hair – you can do this by moving the brush in the direction of the hair growth, before brushing the other way to get rid of the hair.

Q4) Do any of the brushes come with an area to empty the hair?

Yes, some of the brushes discussed in this guide do come with an area to empty the hair. For more details, you can visit the links that we have provided and go through the product features.

Q5) Do rake type brushes need change of blades?

Rake brushes are brushes that penetrate a dog’s coat and eliminate the dead undercoat or any tangles present close to the dog’s skin. In shape, they are similar to a shaving razor, and comprise of a row or a couple of rows of pins that are tightly spaced. Whether a rake brush will require a change of blade will depend upon several factors, including the dog breed, coat thickness, and how frequently you take your dog outdoors.

Tips for Dog Shedding:

1. Make sure to brush regularly: As we have mentioned repeatedly, the best way to manage and control your pets’ shedding is through regular brushing. Try and dedicate a bit of time every day to your dog’s grooming.
2. Prevent brush burn: Your pretty pup requires gentle care. Make sure that you are not pressing the bristles of the brush against the tender skin of your pet, and you should also not tug any tangles or knots. So, during grooming, pay attention to – and steer clear – of any whiskers, bumps, lumps, moles, or warts that your dog might have. Brushing should be an enjoyable experience for both you and your dog.
3. Regular bathing: If your dog often finds itself in icky situations, you might want to make sure that it gets a warm bath at least once a week. Regular bathing helps with the loosening of extra fur.
4. Ease the coat: For grooming sessions that involve either a cat or a dog, you should consider using a coat spray that can mitigate the static cling and soften the coat. A leave-in conditioner should probably work nicely. All you need to do is mist lightly and then stroke the misted region. The more the misting and stroking, the more the hair in the overcoat will ease up, enabling the fuzzy undercoat to slip out.
5. Feed them healthy food: As we have previously stressed, a poor diet is one of the leading causes of excessive shedding in dogs. Your pup needs substantial nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to remain healthy inside and out.
6. Use olive oil with their food: Olive oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids which can help with skin and coat conditioning. With a healthier coat, your dog will not produce as much fur and you will be able to keep the shedding in check.
7. Use an air purifier: The air purifier will help get rid of allergens and dust while your dog is asleep. An air purifier is as beneficial for you as it is for your dog, especially if you or your family members suffer from allergies.

 

Using This Guide to Buy A Shedding Brush:

The purpose of this guide was to provide essential information to dog owners who are looking for a shedding brush for their pets. The first thing that we addressed in this guide was the reasons behind shedding and how can a shedding brush help.

This was followed by a brief discussion on the various types of shedding combs and brushes, and the circumstances in which each of them will prove most useful. This section intended to help dog owners identify the type of brush or comb that they should look for, thereby narrowing the search.

The next section talked about the factors that one should consider before purchasing a shedding brush. These factors included the type of coat, the material (should be durable yet comfortable), design (ergonomic and easy to use), and size (should not be too small or too large for your dog).

After that, we came to the crux of the blog, where we reviewed ten of the best dog shedding brushes or tools available on the market. A description for each product was given, followed a list pros and cons, with the objective of helping our readers pick out the product that they feel would be best suited for them and their pet(s).

Next, we addressed the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to shedding tools. These FAQs addressed things like the method of using a shedding brush, the frequency with which it should be used, and if a short- or long-haired tool will work best for a Labrador.

We also added a section containing the most essential tips related to shredding, and how pet owners can get the best out of it. The tips included regular brushing, preventing brush burns, and taking steps to ease your pet’s coating.

All in all, we expect that with the help of this comprehensive guide, you will find it immensely hard to go wrong while looking for shedding tools for your pets.

Final Word:

This brings us to the end of this guide, where we would like to stress on a few points made throughout the blog, the first of which is that it is crucial to identify the type of shedding brush or tool that will be the best fit for you and your dog. Secondly, just like any other device or tool, the shedding brushes discussed here are only as good as their owner – hence, you need to make sure that you follow the instructions on the product as well as the tips we have discussed in order to get the most out of your purchase. Lastly, we would like to wish you the very best of luck on your quest to finding the beset shredding brush for dogs. We hope that you are able to get a shedding tool that matches your requirements to a T and will prove to be beneficial for you and your dog for a long time.