I’ve been really lucky, having Boxers. Shedding isn’t much of an issue with short-haired dogs. Sure, I pick the odd dog hair off my sweaters, but it’s not like what my other dog friends go through.
Just as an example, my friend, Neila, who breeds Rottweilers, swears that every day, she sweeps up enough hair to build a litter of puppies, and this is from dogs that aren’t really known to shed all that much!
So I’ve never had to worry about dog deshedding brushes. Other people do, though, and since I’m all about dogs (or Simply for Dogs) I guess it wouldn’t hurt to talk about the best dog deshedding brushes.
5 Best Dog Deshedding Brushes On Amazon
Last update on 2024-04-07 at 22:31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Choosing the Best Deshedding Brushes for Dogs
When you bring a dog into your home, it’s because you want a soulmate – someone who will love you when nobody else does, someone who will cheer you up when you’re sad, play with you when you’re happy, and just generally be your best friend.
It works both ways, though. You have to look after your friend, and one of the ways of doing that is taking care of the loose hair that can cause him discomfort. In other words, you have to deal with shedding.
I’m really lucky, because pretty much all I have to do with my dogs is pet them. With a short-haired breed, you can just get rid of excess hair with daily loving and petting.
With medium-haired to long-haired dogs, though, more is needed. You might need a dog deshedding brush.
Before we get into that, though, let’s talk a bit about why dogs shed. I had a discussion about this with my sister, Colleen, a while ago, and she was just horrified when I told her that people shed, too! Skin flakes, mainly, that are eaten up by little mites on human skin.
Colleen was just repulsed – bugs on her skin? Yeah, well, sorry, it happens, and you’d be pretty uncomfortable if it didn’t. It’s normal and healthy.
Dog shedding is normal and healthy, too, but how much your dog is going to shed will depend on a number of factors.
Usually, a long-haired dog will shed more than a short-haired dog. Of course, with any type of dog, shedding is normal, and you shouldn’t worry about it unless the shedding seems to be excessive. Keep in mind, too, that some breeds will “shed out” a lot in the spring and the fall. This is normal.
That said, though, shedding can vary depending on whether your dog is stressed or has had changes in his diet. If you’re using one brand of dog food, for instance, and then you change over to another, your dog might begin to shed more than he might otherwise. If you think that the shedding has gotten to the point where it’s abnormal, you can always consult your veterinarian.
A pregnant dog might also shed more than usual due to hormonal changes. If you think that your dog is shedding out more than usual, you might want to help the process along with good dog deshedding brushes. Excessive hair buildup can be uncomfortable for your dog, and he can’t tell you that he’s feeling itchy or otherwise uncomfortable.
That’s why you might need grooming tools like dog deshedding brushes.
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What to Look For
Usually, dog deshedding brushes will consist of not just a brush, but a blade and rake as well. You’ll typically want to use them at least once a week to keep your dog’s hair in good shape, and also to prevent those awful clusters of hair that coagulate in the corners of your house.
The Process
Start by detangling your dog’s fur before you use a dog deshedding brush. This is so that you don’t cause your dog undue discomfort. While you’re brushing, check for bald spots, rashes, and other things that might indicate a problem with your dog’s coat or skin.
This is very important if you’re dealing with a pregnant female. You want to make sure that everything is okay in the area of the nipples, so that she can nurse the puppies properly.
Don’t Shave!
Often, when a dog’s hair mats up or becomes otherwise unmanageable, the first inclination is to simply shave the dog. This really isn’t a good idea. Dogs are meant to shed out, not to be shaved, and if you shave your dog you could run the risk of causing health issues as temperatures outside go up and down. Your dog’s coat regulates his temperature along with the environment, and shaving upsets this natural balance.
Make it a Good Thing
When you’re using a dog deshedding brush, remember that your best buddy is probably a bit apprehensive – so don’t just use the tool. Speak softly to him, give him treats, and Also, don’t overdo it. If you’re pulling on tangles, your dog is not going to like that. Proceed gently.
Now, the best dog deshedding brushes.
1. ZMG 2 in 1 Fur Deshedding Brush
The ZMG 2 in 1 Fur Deshedding Brush is one of the best tools you can buy. It has a sturdy handle, comes in three sizes, and holds fur like you wouldn’t believe, so you don’t have to worry about it getting all over your hands or your grooming area. It’s great for long- or medium-haired dogs.
2. FURminatordeShedding Tool for Dogs
The FURminator is one of the best dog deshedding brushes for large breeds, or for long-haired breeds. The bristles on the brush are long and sturdy. Keep in mind, though, that this tool is for desheddding, not for ordinary grooming. You’ll still need a comb and a regular grooming brush to finish up the job.
3. Self Cleaning Slicker Brush by Safari Pet Products
Safari’s Self Cleaning Slicker Brush is available in a range of sizes, so you can be assured of finding the brush that will cause the least discomfort to your dog. Groom gently, and you can be assured that this brush will get rid of excess hair without causing stress to your dog.
4. Oster Equine Care Series Curry Comb
Oster Equine Care Series Curry Comb brush is actually made with horses in mind, but it’s also one of the best dog deshedding brushes on the market. It’s best for short-haired dogs, since it’s very gentle and won’t harm your dog’s sensitive skin. It’s great for show, since it gives a wonderful shine to the coat.
5. MIU COLOR Pet Grooming Deshedding Tool
MIU COLOR Pet Grooming Deshedding Tool is one of the best dog deshedding brushes for use on small dogs – in fact, you can even use it on cats! It has no moving parts, so there’s no danger of it catching in your dog’s fur, and it’s great for use on even the most fidgety dogs.
5 Best Dog Deshedding Brushes On Amazon
Last update on 2024-04-07 at 22:31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Related Content:
Top 7 Tips for Dealing with Spring Shedding
7 More Ways to Prevent Your Dog’s Shedding
7 Tips for Dealing with Shedding
The Final Word
I still think I’m so fortunate – dealing with excess hair doesn’t usually mean much more than just petting Janice and Leroy. But if your dog sheds, and you don’t want to have to deal with loose hair all over your house, you might need dog deshedding brushes. I think these are five of the best.