Best Dog Deshedding Tools by Coat & Size (Undercoat vs Brush)

If your dog leaves a coat’s worth of hair on the couch every week, the right tool makes a big difference. Deshedding tools reach the loose undercoat that a regular brush skims over. The best one depends on your dog’s coat: short or long, single or double, smooth or prone to mats.

This guide covers the main tool types, how to match them to your dog’s coat and size, and four tools owners buy most.

Short version: The FURminator undercoat tool, in the long-hair or short-hair version, is the classic for double-coated dogs. SleekEZ is the low-cost blade-style brush that works on all coat types. The Maxpower Planet rake is the pick for thick coats with mats and tangles.

Undercoat Tool vs. Brush vs. Rake

Undercoat deshedding tools, like FURminator, have a fine steel edge that reaches through the topcoat to pull out loose undercoat. FURminator makes separate long- and short-hair versions in different sizes. Blade-style brushes, like SleekEZ, grab loose hair at the tips and work across coat types. Undercoat rakes, like Maxpower Planet, have rows of teeth that work through mats and dense double coats.

Match the Tool to Your Dog

Pick the FURminator version for your dog’s hair length and size; the medium models here are for dogs 25 to 50 pounds, and other sizes are sold separately. For mats, start with a rake before a fine undercoat tool. For short, smooth coats, a blade-style brush like SleekEZ is often enough. Brush outdoors or on a towel during heavy shedding, and see our shedding control guide for the rest of the house.

The Picks, Up Close

FURminator Undercoat deShedding Tool, Medium, Long Hair

FURminator Long Hair — Check price on Amazon

For medium dogs of 25 to 50 pounds with long hair. A stainless steel deShedding edge reaches through the topcoat to remove loose hair and undercoat, which FURminator says is done without damaging the topcoat or cutting skin. A curved skin guard and a FURejector button release hair easily.

Best for: Long-haired, double-coated medium dogs.

FURminator Undercoat deShedding Tool, Medium, Short Hair

FURminator Short Hair — Check price on Amazon

The short-hair version for dogs of 25 to 50 pounds. It reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat without cutting skin or damaging the topcoat when used as directed, with a FURejector button and ergonomic handle. FURminator offers a money-back guarantee; see the label for details.

Best for: Short-coated shedders like Labs.

SleekEZ Deshedding Dog Brush

SleekEZ — Check price on Amazon

A patented blade-style brush that SleekEZ says grabs the tips of loose hair without painful tugging and works on all fur types and lengths. It also works as a hair rake for couches, cars, blankets and beds.

Best for: Budget everyday deshedding and furniture hair.

Maxpower Planet Undercoat Rake

Maxpower Planet Rake — Check price on Amazon

A dual-sided rake with a 9-tooth side for mats and tangles and a 17-tooth side to thin and deshed. The teeth are sharpened but rounded at the tips, and it has a non-slip rubber grip. It is sold for dogs and cats with thick fur or dense double coats.

Best for: Thick double coats and mats.

FAQ

How often should I deshed my dog?

FURminator’s listing says to use it weekly; you may brush more often in shedding season. Follow the tool maker’s directions and your groomer’s advice.

Can I use a deshedding tool on a short-haired dog?

Yes. Choose a short-hair version like the FURminator Short Hair, or a brush like SleekEZ.

Which FURminator size do I need?

The medium models are for dogs 25 to 50 pounds. Check the listing for small and large sizes.

What else helps with dog hair?

See our dog grooming tools and vacuums for pet hair guides.

Final Take

Choose the FURminator that matches your dog’s hair length and size, SleekEZ for an easy all-coat brush, and the Maxpower rake for mats and thick coats. Go gently, brush regularly in shedding season, and your couch will thank you.