If tumbleweeds of fur roll across your floor every spring and fall, you're not alone. Most dogs shed, and double-coated breeds like Huskies, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds and Corgis "blow" their undercoat seasonally. The good news is that a regular deshedding routine at home keeps the fur in the brush and off your couch.
1. Know your dog's coat
Single coats (Poodles, many terriers) shed lightly and tangle more easily. Double coats have a dense, soft undercoat under longer guard hairs, and that undercoat is where most of the shedding happens. The tools you need depend on which coat your dog has.
2. Start with a slicker brush
A slicker brush has fine, closely spaced pins that lift loose hair and small tangles from the top layers. Brush in the direction the hair grows, in short, gentle strokes. A self-cleaning slicker brush saves time, because one press clears the fur from the pins so you can keep going.
3. Reach the undercoat with a rake or comb
For double-coated dogs, follow the slicker with an undercoat rake. Its longer teeth reach down to the loose undercoat that a slicker can't get to. Our TwinTooth undercoat comb pairs long and short teeth, with a release button for easy clean-up. Work section by section and never force the comb through a mat. Tease mats apart with your fingers first, and ask a professional groomer about any that are tight or close to the skin.
4. Use a little moisture
Brushing a bone-dry coat can create static and flyaways. A light mist helps. A spray grooming brush with a built-in water tank dampens the coat as you go.
5. Bath day, done right
A bath loosens a lot of dead undercoat. Wet the coat thoroughly, then work the shampoo in with a dog bath brush with a shampoo dispenser so it reaches the skin. Rinse very well, towel dry, and brush again once your dog is dry. You'll be amazed how much more comes out.
6. Make it a happy routine
Keep sessions short, five to ten minutes, and finish before your dog gets fidgety. A lick mat stuck to the wall or tub with a smear of peanut butter (xylitol-free) is a great distraction during brushing and baths.
How often should you deshed?
For most dogs, brushing two or three times a week is plenty. During heavy shedding season, a quick daily session keeps things manageable. If you notice skin redness, bald patches or sudden heavy shedding, check in with your vet.