The Best Dog Deshedding Tools
One of the downsides to having a dog is that there always seems to be hair everywhere. But there is a relatively easy and affordable way to prevent most of the shedding: use a de-shedding tool. A de-shedding tool is a comb of sorts that removes hair before your dog can shed it, ensuring that it ends up in the trash and not all over your furniture and clothes. A good de-shedding tool is designed to be sharp enough to remove hair from your dog's undercoat but safe enough to avoid hurting your best buddy. We found the best tools out there to get the job done, so read on to check out our favorite options.
What to Look For
The best dog de-shedders shouldn’t just remove hair effectively, but should also do so as painlessly as possible for both you and your pooch. That means the tool should be gentle on your dog’s fur and skin, as well as comfortable for you to hold while you use it. It’s no wonder, then, that one of our favorite models is the one from Pet Neat, which features an ergonomic handle and an efficient comb that together helps you remove hair quickly and easily. For a novel alternative to a traditional grooming brush, check out the SeekEZ tool, which boasts a patented design that is meant to be gentler on your pup’s skin and coat than other options. Read on to discover more of our favorite dog de-shedding tools and to find one that’s right for your best friend.
Pet Neat Grooming Brush
Shave and save
Owning a pet costs a lot of money, but you probably already knew that. That’s why when we come across an effective pet grooming tool that doesn’t break the bank, we jump for joy. This inexpensive option costs about as much like a pizza, but it offers years and years of effective de-shedding action. The short stainless steel teeth are the perfect size for removing dog hair in only a few strokes. Better yet, the quick-release button actually works to clear the comb of hair and prep it for another round.
Pros:
- We were impressed by its performance, especially at this price point.
- The non-slip grip works well with squirmy dogs.
- We found that this brush worked especially well with short to moderately long dog hair.
Cons:
- This brush may not work as well with longer-haired breeds.
SleekEZ Deshedding Grooming Tool
Easy and painless
This unique de-shedding tool from SleekEZ has a patented design that works wonders on your dog’s loose hair. Instead of a comb comprised of long teeth, this tool has very small teeth positioned in a wave pattern. These little teeth pull the tips of hairs without irritating your dog. Better yet, the hairs don’t stay in the brush, so you don’t have to clean hair from the brush manually. After brushing them off your dog, the hairs drop to the ground, and you can easily sweep or vacuum them up.
Pros:
- The SleekEZ removes excess hair with little to no snaring.
- More sensitive dogs seem to be less agitated by this grooming tool.
- We like that it has a smooth grip — it’s very comfortable to hold.
Cons:
- This won’t be the ideal choice for dogs with thin hair.
Hertzko Deshedding Tool Blade
A novel approach
This cleverly designed tool from Hertzko takes a different approach to de-shedding. Rather than utilizing a comb-style de-shedding edge, this one uses a flexible blade with fine teeth. The blade can slide in and out of the handle to whatever length you desire, and you can lock it in at the length by setting the safety guard in place. The blade can be configured in two ways: you can keep it straight or bend the far end back into the handle to create a looped blade. Why would you want to do that, you might ask? This flexibility allows you to tailor the tool to the needs of your dog’s mane to ensure you do the best job possible.
Pros:
- Dogs of all shapes and sizes seem to prefer Hertzko when compared to more traditional grooming tools.
- The adjustable blade works well for all dogs, but we found this to be a remarkably helpful grooming tool for long-haired breeds.
Cons:
- There aren’t any instructions included, so there is a bit of a learning curve.
The Pet Portal Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
Coats of all sizes
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, so some need more attention than others. This handy de-shedding tool can tackle just about any length of coat, including those long-haired Spaniels and sheepdogs. The key is in the quick-release mechanism, which lets you clear the fine metal teeth of the brush with the simple press of a button. Of course, extra hairy dogs will require more passes, but this brush is up to the task.
Pros:
- The grippy handle is comfortable enough for longer grooming sessions.
- The brush’s bristles are versatile enough for any hair length.
- If you have a particularly bushy breed, you will love the self-cleaning option. With the push of a button, the bristles retract, leaving you with a hair-free brush.
Cons:
- Depending on the hair’s thickness, the quick-release button may not clear the teeth completely.
Furminator Deshedding Tool for Large Dogs
Large and in charge
If you have a big dog, you already know that means more fur. Therefore, it’s even more important that you use a de-shedding tool to help mitigate this before your entire home is covered in a thin layer of dog hair. Produced by a brand name known for making top-tier pet accessories, this tool from Furminator can get the job done no matter how big Buster is. Thanks to the high-quality stainless steel de-shedding edge and the nifty “Furejector” quick-release button, this tool provides excellent results reliably, and it’ll last you a long time.
Pros:
- If you’re tired of all-in-on brushes, this de-shedder is for you. It’s available in two configurations: short hair and long hair.
- This brush is built to last, so if you own more than one dog or plan to be a dog owner for years to come, the Furminator is a good pick.
Cons:
- It’s a bit pricey compared to the competition, but that’s because it’s very well-made.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a de-shedding tool be used for other pets?
Yes, de-shedding tools can be used for other pets. The most common other pet that sheds are cats, and you can definitely use these tools for cats. Some of these tools can even be used on horses, as well.
What size tool should I get?
Some de-shedding tools come in different sizes for different size dogs, as well as different sizes for different hair lengths. Other de-shedding tools come in one size fits all. It’s best to read the product page and choose the size that best fits your dog.
What’s the difference between a de-shedding tool and a grooming rake?
Although some models look similar, de-shedding tools and grooming rakes are not the same. De-shedding tools remove hair from your dog’s undercoat so that they don’t shed. Grooming rakes remove tangles and matted hair so that your dog’s fur looks smooth and groomed.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
DogTime is a leading resource for dog owners & pet lovers. Our goal is to give every dog & pet a happy, healthy home by providing the best advice to owners.