Best Brushes for Double Coated Dogs: Groomer-Approved Tools To Keep the Shed Under Control

Over the years, I’ve worked with hundreds of double-coated dogs—from shedding machines like Huskies and German Shepherds to fluff balls like Australian Shepherds and Bernese Mountain Dogs. These breeds have unique grooming needs due to their dual-layered coats: a soft, insulating undercoat and a coarser, protective topcoat. If you’ve ever wondered why your vacuum never rests, it’s because that undercoat doesn’t stop shedding, especially during spring and fall.

The good news? With the right brushes and consistent maintenance, you can drastically reduce loose hair in your home, prevent matting, and keep your dog’s coat and skin in optimal condition. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best tools for the job—ones we use and trust in the grooming salon every day—and share practical tips to help you get professional results at home.

Understanding the Double Coat

Double-coated breeds have two distinct layers of fur, each serving a specific and essential purpose for the dog’s health and comfort:

• Undercoat: This is the soft, dense layer closest to the skin. It functions as an insulating barrier that regulates the dog’s body temperature, keeping them warm in the winter and surprisingly cool in the summer by trapping air. Because it's so dense, it tends to trap loose fur, dirt, and dander—making it the primary culprit for shedding and matting if left unbrushed. Dogs like Siberian Huskies and Golden Retrievers have especially thick undercoats.

• Topcoat (Guard hairs): These longer, coarser hairs sit above the undercoat. Their job is to protect the dog from moisture, UV rays, and environmental debris like dust or burrs. Guard hairs are less prone to tangling, but they can become dull or brittle if not properly maintained.

Brushing both layers effectively is critical to coat health. The undercoat, in particular, requires tools that can reach through the top layer without breaking or damaging the guard hairs. These coats don’t just shed a little year-round—they go through intense seasonal changes known as "coat blow." Typically happening in the spring and fall, this is when your dog sheds their undercoat en masse to adapt to changing temperatures. If this hair isn’t removed, it becomes compacted against the skin, leading to mats that restrict airflow and create a breeding ground for bacteria.

Left unmanaged, this can escalate into painful hot spots, skin infections, and an overall decline in coat quality. That’s why understanding how to groom both the undercoat and topcoat is essential—not just for aesthetics, but for your dog’s overall well-being.

The Must-Have Brushes for Double-Coated Dogs

1. Slicker Brush

Best for: Daily maintenance, surface tangles, and fluffing.

Slicker brushes feature fine, densely packed wire bristles that are slightly angled. They’re ideal for brushing through the top layer and lightly penetrating the undercoat to pick up loose fur and dander.

Why it works: Slicker brushes are especially helpful after walks or playtime when debris can get trapped in the coat. They also stimulate the skin, promote circulation, and help distribute natural oils.

Groomer Tip: Use gentle, long strokes. Start at the rear and work your way forward. Always brush in the direction of hair growth to avoid scratching the skin. Light pressure is key.

2. Undercoat Rake

Best for: Reaching and removing loose undercoat fur.

This tool is essential during seasonal shedding (a.k.a. "coat blow"). Its long teeth penetrate the topcoat to grab and remove dead undercoat without damaging the outer layer.

Why it works: Undercoat rakes are designed to glide through dense fur without cutting it. They’re particularly effective around the neck, shoulders, hips, and tail—where undercoat buildup is common.

Groomer Tip: Use once or twice a week during peak shedding. Focus on high-shed areas like the rump, chest, and behind the ears. Don’t rush—work in sections to avoid missed spots.

3. De-Shedding Tool (e.g., FURminator)

Best for: Removing deep, loose undercoat fur with minimal effort.

These tools have a fine-toothed blade that safely removes undercoat hair that would otherwise end up on your couch. They’re highly effective but should be used sparingly to avoid thinning the topcoat.

Why it works: It collects the maximum amount of loose hair with each pass, which can dramatically reduce shedding when used consistently.

Groomer Tip: Use on a clean, dry coat. Avoid over-brushing the same area, and never use on wet fur. A few gentle passes go a long way.

4. Wide-Toothed Metal Comb

Best for: Finishing and detecting hidden mats.

After brushing, a metal comb helps you check for areas you may have missed—especially under the legs, behind the ears, and around the collar. It also fluffs and finishes the coat for a polished look.

Why it works: The spacing of the teeth lets you tackle larger tangles gently, while the finer side catches lingering knots. It's also a great way to lift the coat for a fuller finish.

Groomer Tip: Use the wide-tooth end first, then switch to fine teeth for detail work. Comb in short strokes to detect snags.

5. Rubber Curry Brush or Grooming Glove

Best for: Gentle daily touch-ups, deshedding during baths, and bonding time.

These tools don’t reach the undercoat, but they’re fantastic for collecting surface fur and massaging the skin. They’re great for dogs with sensitive skin or who dislike traditional brushes.

Why it works: The soft rubber bristles stimulate the skin and help pull away loose hair without any tugging or scratching.

Groomer Tip: Use in a circular motion during baths to help loosen dead fur. Follow up with a slicker brush while drying for best results.

6. High-Velocity Dryer

Best for: Blasting out loose undercoat after a bath and speeding up dry time.

The high-velocity dryer isn’t technically a brush, but it’s one of the most powerful tools for managing double-coated dogs. It uses concentrated streams of air to force loose undercoat out of the coat after bathing—before it becomes matted or sheds all over your home.

Why it works: Unlike standard blow dryers, this tool uses force rather than heat. It helps separate the coat, remove excess moisture, and reveal tangles or mats that need attention. It’s also a safer, faster, and more effective way to dry thick-coated breeds.

Groomer Tip: Always use on the lowest air setting first to gauge your dog’s comfort. Point the nozzle away from the face and ears, and direct airflow along the coat’s natural direction. For sensitive dogs, introduce the dryer gradually to build trust.

Pro Bonus: Use a slicker brush or undercoat rake while drying to lift even more dead hair out. This combination is one of the most efficient deshedding strategies in professional grooming.

Bonus Tips for Shedding Control

• Never shave a double-coated dog. It disrupts their natural insulation and can cause coat damage, sunburn, and improper regrowth.

• Invest in a high-velocity dryer. After baths, this tool blasts out loose undercoat and cuts drying time in half. It’s the secret weapon of every professional groomer.

• Use a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray. These reduce static and tangling, making brushing easier and more comfortable for your dog.

• Feed a high-quality diet with omega-3s. A healthy coat starts from within. Supplements like fish oil can improve coat texture and reduce excessive shedding.

Recommended Breeds for These Grooming Tools

These tools are especially effective for double-coated dog breeds, which tend to shed heavily and require routine maintenance to stay comfortable and healthy. Whether you’re brushing out the undercoat or detangling thick fur, these brushes are trusted by professional groomers for the following breeds:

If your dog falls into one of these categories or shows signs of excessive shedding, matting, or thick seasonal coat changes, these tools are the best defense. They’ll help maintain skin health, reduce shedding around your home, and make grooming a much more manageable task for both of you.

Final Thoughts

Managing a double-coated dog’s shedding isn’t about eliminating it—it’s about keeping it manageable and healthy. The right tools and a consistent brushing routine will help you control the fur storm, prevent painful mats, and keep your pup comfortable year-round. Your furniture (and your dog) will thank you.

If you’re just starting out, don’t feel overwhelmed. Pick one or two tools and build a routine that works for you. Even five minutes a day can make a world of difference over time.

Ready to upgrade your grooming kit? Look for ergonomic, comfort-grip handles and rust-resistant stainless-steel bristles for long-lasting tools that both you and your dog will love.

Because a well-brushed double coat isn’t just beautiful—it’s a sign of a happy, healthy dog.