Best Brushes for Shedding Dogs (UK Guide 2025)

The best brush for shedding dogs depends on your dog's coat type: rubber curry brushes for short coats, undercoat rakes plus de-shedding tools for double coats, and slicker brushes for finishing.

If your dog leaves hair everywhere, you're not alone. Shedding is natural, but the right brush makes a huge difference. UK dog owners face seasonal moulting peaks in spring and autumn, when many breeds "blow" their coats.

The key is matching your brush to your dog's coat type and brushing more frequently during these heavy shedding periods. Regular brushing removes loose hair before it mats and helps distribute skin oils. It also lets you spot skin issues early.

Why Dogs Shed – and Why Brushing Matters

Shedding is normal: dogs replace old hair with new growth. Many breeds shed year-round, while others shed more noticeably in spring and autumn as daylight and temperature change in the UK. This natural process helps dogs regulate their body temperature and maintain healthy coats.

Regular brushing removes loose hair before it mats and helps distribute skin oils throughout the coat. It also allows you to spot skin issues early, such as hot spots or parasites. If you notice bald patches, excessive scratching, or sudden changes in shedding patterns, speak to your vet promptly.

How Often Should You Brush in the UK?

Short-haired shedders (e.g., Labradors, Staffies): once or twice weekly, stepping up to daily during heavy moults. These breeds benefit from consistent brushing to remove loose undercoat. During peak shedding seasons, daily sessions prevent hair from accumulating around your home.

Double-coated/medium-long coats (e.g., Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, German Shepherds): several times per week; daily during spring/autumn moults. These breeds have both guard hairs and soft undercoat that requires different brushing techniques. The undercoat tends to mat easily when wet, so regular maintenance is crucial.

Low-shedding breeds (Poodles, Maltese): still benefit from regular brushing to prevent knots, especially after getting wet. While these breeds don't shed heavily, their hair continues growing and can become tangled. Regular brushing maintains coat health and prevents expensive professional de-matting.

Start grooming young and keep sessions short and positive with treats. If you prefer professional grooming, choose a kind, qualified groomer and keep up at-home maintenance between visits. Building positive associations with brushing early makes the process enjoyable for both you and your dog. For new pet owners just starting their grooming journey, our comprehensive guide on essential grooming tools for beginners covers everything you need to build a complete home grooming kit.

Pick the Right Brush for Your Dog's Coat

Below are groomer-approved tools we've used and trust. Always be gentle: let the brush do the work—no scraping. The wrong brush can damage your dog's coat or cause discomfort, so matching the tool to your dog's specific coat type is essential.

Short-haired Shedders (Smooth Coats)

KONG ZoomGroom — rubber curry that massages skin and lifts tons of loose hair. Brilliant during bath time too, as the rubber material works well when wet. The flexible rubber teeth are gentle on sensitive skin while effectively removing loose undercoat.

Pet Teezer Detangling/Grooming Brush — flexible teeth are comfortable; useful for gentle surface de-shedding. This brush works well for dogs who are sensitive to traditional brushes. The two-tiered teeth system captures loose hair without pulling or scratching.

Double-coated and Medium/Long Coats

Mikki Undercoat Rake — reaches the fluffy undercoat to remove dead hair without shredding guard hairs. The rotating teeth prevent pulling and make the brushing experience more comfortable. This tool is essential for breeds with thick undercoats that tend to mat.

FURminator deShedding Tool — use sparingly (1–2x/week in moult) on a fully dry, detangled coat; avoid sensitive areas. This tool can remove up to 90% of loose undercoat when used correctly. However, overuse can damage the guard hairs, so restraint is important.

Slicker Brush Finisher — Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker is great value; Chris Christensen Big G is a pro favourite for dense coats. These brushes have fine wire bristles that catch flyaway hairs and fluff the coat. The self-cleaning feature makes hair removal quick and easy.

Our Short List: Best Brushes for Shedding Dogs in the UK

• Best overall for short coats: KONG ZoomGroom — sheds removal + massage; great for bath-time de-shedding.
• Best budget all-rounder: Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker — effective on most coats; easy hair release button.
• Best for heavy shedders/double coats: Mikki Undercoat Rake — gets deep undercoat safely.
• Best targeted de-shed: FURminator deShedding Tool — excellent on moulting double-coats when used correctly.
• Best premium slicker (dense coats, fluff-drying): Chris Christensen Big G — professional-grade glide and reach.
• Best gentle everyday brush: Pet Teezer Detangling/Grooming Brush — comfortable daily upkeep.

How to Brush: Step-by-Step

1. Prep: Let your dog sniff the brush. Work when they're relaxed. Keep sessions 5–10 minutes at first to build positive associations.
2. Detangle (if applicable): For longer coats, finger-detangle or use a detangling spray before tools. This prevents painful pulling and makes the process more comfortable.
3. Work with the coat: Brush in the direction hair grows. On double coats, lift sections and use an undercoat rake first to reach the dense undercoat.
4. De-shed strategically: Use FURminator lightly on dry, detangled areas. Avoid ears, face, belly, tail, and any skin lesions to prevent irritation.
5. Finish: A slicker brush lifts remaining loose hair and fluffs the coat. Wipe the dog down or use a dryer to blow out any leftover hair if they're used to it.
6. Reward: Lots of praise and small treats. Stop before they get bored to maintain positive associations with grooming.

UK Shedding Calendar (Typical)

• Spring (Mar–May): Many dogs blow their winter undercoat; increase brushing frequency to daily if possible.
• Summer: Short coats benefit from frequent light brushing to remove insulating loose hair and keep dogs cool.
• Autumn (Sep–Nov): Second heavy moult for many breeds; resume intensive routine to prepare for winter coat growth.
• Winter: Maintenance brushing; check for matting after wet walks as damp fur mats more easily.

Every dog is different—watch your dog and adjust accordingly. Some breeds may shed more heavily due to indoor heating or individual genetics. Pay attention to your dog's specific patterns and adapt your brushing schedule to their needs.

Safety First: When Not to Brush

• Pain, redness, hot spots, or broken skin — get veterinary advice first before continuing any grooming routine.
• Severe matting — don't pull; consult a professional to avoid skin damage and pain.
• Anxiety or sensitivity — go slower, use high-value rewards, or book a calm professional grooming session.

Product Recommendations (UK Links)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Pressing too hard with de-shedding tools (can cause brush burn). Light pressure only—let the tool do the work.
• Using FURminator on wet or matted coats — always detangle and dry first to prevent damage.
• Ignoring seasonal moults — plan extra sessions in spring/autumn when shedding peaks.
• Skipping rewards — make brushing something your dog looks forward to with treats and praise.

Frequently Asked Questions