How to Brush a German Shepherd the Right Way

If you live with a German Shepherd, you already know one thing: the fur never stops coming. This loyal and intelligent breed is famous for its thick double coat—and while it keeps them comfortable in all kinds of weather, it also means their shedding can feel endless.

Brushing isn’t just about keeping the hair tumbleweeds under control. It’s about maintaining skin health, reducing mats, and strengthening the bond you share with your dog. With the right tools and brushing routine, you can make your German Shepherd look and feel their best while keeping shedding manageable.

Understanding the German Shepherd Coat

German Shepherds have what’s known as a double coat:

• Outer coat (guard hairs): longer, coarser hairs that repel dirt and water.

• Undercoat: soft, dense, and insulating, designed to regulate temperature in both hot and cold climates.

This combination makes them weather-resistant but also heavy shedders. Twice a year—in spring and fall—they “blow coat,” releasing massive amounts of undercoat fur all at once. Without regular brushing, the coat can mat, skin can get irritated, and loose hair will take over your home.

The Best Brushes for a German Shepherd

Having the right tools in your grooming kit makes brushing not just easier, but more effective. Here are the ones every German Shepherd owner should have:

• Slicker Brush – The daily go-to for surface tangles and dirt. It smooths the topcoat and prevents mats from starting.

• Undercoat Rake – Essential for reaching deep into the undercoat and removing dead hair trapped beneath the guard coat.

• De-shedding Tool (like a FURminator) – Works wonders during shedding season, pulling out undercoat fur before it ends up on your furniture.

• Metal Comb – Great for finishing work around the ears, tail, and behind the legs where mats often form.

• Bonus Tools: Rubber curry brushes or grooming gloves are excellent for quick daily upkeep or for dogs who are sensitive to traditional brushes.

How Often Should You Brush a German Shepherd?

• Everyday touch-ups: 5–10 minutes with a slicker brush keeps the coat tidy.

• Thorough sessions: 3–4 times per week, working down to the undercoat.

• During shedding season: daily brushing is best to control coat blow and prevent fur buildup.

Regularity is more important than length—short, frequent sessions are far more effective than waiting a week and trying to tackle the entire coat at once.

Step-by-Step: Brushing a German Shepherd the Right Way

1. Start with the Slicker Brush

   • Work in the direction of hair growth.

   • Begin at the neck and shoulders, moving down the back and sides.

2. Switch to the Undercoat Rake

   • Use gentle, long strokes to pull out loose undercoat fur.

   • Focus on heavy-shed areas like the chest, rump, and hind legs.

3. Use the De-shedding Tool

   • Especially helpful during seasonal coat blows.

   • Keep your strokes light—let the tool do the work to avoid skin irritation.

4. Detail with the Metal Comb

   • Run the comb through feathering on the legs, around the ears, and through the tail to catch hidden mats.

5. Check Skin and Coat Health

   • Brushing time doubles as inspection time. Look for hot spots, dry patches, or fleas/ticks.

6. Make It Positive

   • Praise, treats, and calm handling turn brushing into bonding instead of a battle.

Tired of German Shepherd fur taking over your home? 🐾 Check out German Shepherd Coat Care: Shedding, Brushing, and Professional Grooming Tips

Pro Groomer Tips for Shedding Season

• Velocity Dryer Blow-Outs – A high-powered dryer blasts loose undercoat out before it hits your floors.

• De-shedding Shampoo and Conditioner – These loosen dead fur and make brushing more effective.

• Always Brush Before and After a Bath – Wet fur can tighten mats if brushed after bathing alone.

• Keep Sessions Manageable – Multiple short sessions are less stressful than one marathon grooming session.

Brushing Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Never shave a German Shepherd. Their coat is their natural insulation and shaving can permanently damage regrowth.

• ❌ Don’t just skim the surface. Always reach the undercoat.

• ❌ Avoid brushing against the grain. This can cause breakage and irritate the skin.

• ❌ Don’t wait until mats form. Prevention is always easier than correction.

Conclusion

Brushing your German Shepherd the right way isn’t just about controlling the shed. It’s about caring for their skin, maintaining a healthy double coat, and making sure your pup feels comfortable year-round. With the right brushes, a steady routine, and a little patience, you’ll not only cut down on fur around the house but also strengthen the bond with your dog.

At Riverview Grooming, we see firsthand how a consistent brushing routine makes every grooming appointment easier and every dog happier.