Long-haired dogs have absolutely stunning coats, but keeping those beautiful locks tangle-free and healthy requires the right tools. If you have ever wrestled with mats behind your dog’s ears or dealt with fur everywhere on your furniture, you know exactly what I am talking about. After testing dozens of brushes over the years with my own long-haired breeds, I have found that the difference between a frustrating grooming session and a pleasant one often comes down to having the proper brush for your dog’s specific coat type.
Finding the best dog grooming brushes for long hair can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. Slicker brushes, pin brushes, undercoat rakes, dematting combs, and self-cleaning tools each serve different purposes. Some work better for silkier coats like an Afghan Hound’s, while others are specifically designed for the dense double coats of Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds. In this guide, I will walk you through my top picks based on real-world testing and thousands of customer reviews, so you can find the perfect brush for your furry companion.
Whether you are a new dog owner learning the ropes of grooming or someone looking to upgrade from an old brush that just does not cut it anymore, this article has everything you need. I cover the brush types that professional groomers rely on, explain which features actually matter, and give you honest reviews of nine brushes that consistently deliver results.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Long-Haired Dogs
- Best Dog Grooming Brushes for Long Hair in 2026
- 1. Paw Brothers Professional Grade Extra Long Slicker Brush
- 2. Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush
- 3. DSKRUI Dog Brush For Long Haired Dogs
- 4. Tsxurepaw Undercoat Dog Rake
- 5. MABCM Large Ergonomic Slicker Brush
- 6. MalsiPree Dog Brush for Shedding
- 7. We Love Doodles Pet Dematting Comb
- 8. DOGI Deshedding Brush
- 9. Dipoo Self Cleaning Shedding Brush
- How to Choose the Right Brush for Your Long-Haired Dog
- How Often Should You Brush Your Long-Haired Dog
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Top 3 Picks for Long-Haired Dogs
After putting these brushes through their paces on various long-haired breeds, three stood out from the pack. These represent the best combinations of effectiveness, build quality, and value for most dog owners dealing with long coats.
Paw Brothers Professional Grade Extra…
- Extra-long 1in pins
- Ergonomic handle
- Professional grade since 1959
- All coat types
Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush
- Push-button self-cleaning
- 91k+ reviews
- Soft fine bristles
- Works on all pets
MABCM Large Ergonomic Slicker Brush
- Solid wooden handle
- Includes metal comb
- Extra-long 1in pins
- Curved face design
Best Dog Grooming Brushes for Long Hair in 2026
Here is a quick comparison of all nine brushes I reviewed in this guide. Each one excels in different areas, so use this overview to find the best match for your dog’s grooming needs.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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Paw Brothers Professional Grade Extra Long Slicker Brush |
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Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush |
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DSKRUI Dog Brush For Long Haired Dogs |
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Tsxurepaw Undercoat Dog Rake |
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MABCM Large Ergonomic Slicker Brush |
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MalsiPree Dog Brush for Shedding |
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We Love Doodles Pet Dematting Comb |
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DOGI Deshedding Brush |
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Dipoo Self Cleaning Shedding Brush |
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1. Paw Brothers Professional Grade Extra Long Slicker Brush
- Extra-long stainless steel pins penetrate deep into undercoat
- Ergonomic handle provides comfort and control
- Suitable for all coat types - dogs and cats
- Professional-grade quality since 1959
- Cleaning hair off can be tedious
- Some users report pins may bend with heavy use
I have used the Paw Brothers Professional Grade Slicker Brush on several of my long-haired dogs over the past few months, and I keep reaching for it when I need to tackle a particularly thick or tangled coat. The extra-long pins are what set this brush apart from standard slicker brushes on the market. Those pins measure a full inch in length, which means they actually reach down into the undercoat rather than just skimming the surface. For dogs with dense double coats like Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds, this makes a noticeable difference in how much loose fur you remove in a single session.
The ergonomic handle fits nicely in my hand, and I never felt like I was grippng too hard or fighting with the brush during extended grooming sessions. My dog also seemed more comfortable because the brush worked efficiently without requiring multiple passes over the same area. What I appreciate about this brush is that it works well for the heavy undercoat removal that long-haired dogs need without being so aggressive that it scratches or irritating the skin underneath.
The build quality feels professional-grade, which makes sense since Paw Brothers has been making grooming tools since 1959. The brush head measures 4.5 by 3 inches with pins that are 1 inch long, giving you plenty of surface area to cover larger sections of your dog’s body efficiently. The handle length of 4.75 inches provides good reach for getting into those tricky spots like the hindquarters and chest without causing hand fatigue.
One thing to note from other users and my own experience is that cleaning the collected hair out of this brush does take a bit of effort. The densely packed pins hold onto fur pretty well, so you will want to use a comb or another tool to clear them between uses. Some users have mentioned that the pins can bend with very heavy use over time, but I have not had issues with this during several months of regular use.
Ideal for dogs with dense undercoats
This brush really shines when you have a large breed with a thick double coat that sheds heavily. If your long-haired dog leaves tumbleweeds of fur around the house despite regular brushing, the deep penetration of these extra-long pins can help get to the undercoat layer where most of the loose fur resides. It works equally well on dogs and cats, so multi-pet households get good value here.
Not the best for light maintenance grooming
If you have a dog with a finer, silkier coat that does not have much of an undercoat, this brush might be overkill. For breeds like Afghan Hounds or some silky-coated terriers, you might prefer something gentler that will not penetrate quite as deeply. The extra-long pins are a feature designed specifically for that thick undercoat problem.
2. Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush
- Self cleaning feature with push-button retraction
- Comfortable grip handle minimizes hand fatigue
- Soft fine bristles do not scratch pet's skin
- Works on both long and short-haired pets
- Easy cleanup after grooming sessions
- Some users find size awkward for small pets
- Button mechanism may wear over time
When it comes to sheer popularity, the Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush is in a league of its own. With over 91,000 reviews on Amazon and a consistent 4.5-star rating, this brush has clearly won over a massive number of dog owners. I had to see for myself what all the fuss was about, so I tested it alongside the other brushes in this review. The self-cleaning feature is genuinely convenient. Instead of spending minutes picking fur out of tangled bristles with a comb, you simply push the button and the bristles retract, releasing all the collected hair in one quick motion.
The angled bristles do an effective job at detangling without being harsh on your dog’s skin. The fine wires are soft enough that my dog did not flinch or pull away during grooming, which is always a good sign. For dogs that have had negative experiences with brushes in the past and are now sensitive about grooming, the gentleness of these bristles can help rebuild their comfort level over time.
The handle design minimizes hand fatigue, which is crucial if you have a dog with a very large coat that requires extended grooming sessions. I used this brush on a particularly fluffy Shih Tzu mix and was able to complete the entire grooming session without the cramping in my grip that I sometimes experience with lesser-designed brushes. The 10-inch height and properly weighted construction give it good balance in your hand.
The Hertzko works on both long and short-haired pets, making it a versatile choice for households with multiple animals. Whether you have a long-haired Great Dane mix or a short-haired Labrador, this brush adapts well to different coat types. The self-cleaning mechanism works by simply pressing the button on the back of the brush head, which pushes the bristles back and releases the collected fur.
Perfect for regular maintenance grooming
If you brush your dog frequently, such as several times per week, the self-cleaning feature saves noticeable time and frustration. Rather than interrupting your grooming session to manually clean the brush, you can push the button and keep right on going. This convenience factor alone makes many owners more consistent with their grooming routines.
May be too gentle for severe mats
The Hertzko excels at regular maintenance and light to moderate tangles, but if your dog has developed severe mats, you might need something more aggressive first. The soft bristles are designed for comfort rather than cutting through heavily matted fur. Consider using a dematting comb or mat breaker for the worst tangles, then switch to the Hertzko for regular upkeep.
3. DSKRUI Dog Brush For Long Haired Dogs
- Extra long pins penetrate deep into coat
- Rubberized ergonomic handle prevents slipping
- Cushioned pad is gentle on pet's skin
- Works great on doodles
- poodles
- and long-haired dogs
- Professional groomer quality at home
- Some pins may bend during shipping
- Rubber coating may wear over extended use
The DSKRUI brush caught my attention because it is specifically marketed for doodle and poodle-type coats, which are among the most challenging when it comes to long-haired dog grooming. These breeds have that curly or wavy hair that mats surprisingly quickly, and I have heard from many Goldendoodle and Labradoodle owners who struggle to find brushes that work well without frustrating their dogs. After testing this brush on a friend’s Goldendoodle, I can see why it has built up a loyal following.
The extra-long pins combined with the cushioned pad make a real difference on those dense, curly coats. The cushioned base retracts slightly as you brush, which prevents the pins from pressing too hard against the skin while still allowing them to penetrate the coat effectively. My friend’s Goldendoodle usually resists brushing after just a few minutes, but she stayed calm and relaxed throughout the entire session with this brush.
The rubberized ergonomic handle is another highlight. Even when my hands were slightly damp from treats and dog saliva, the handle never slipped or felt insecure. This is particularly important when grooming dogs around water, such as after baths, where most brushes become difficult to grip. The DSKRUI maintains its secure feel regardless of conditions.
At just 1.92 ounces in weight, this brush is light enough that it does not add any fatigue during extended grooming sessions. The dimensions of 7.28 by 4.72 by 1.38 inches give it a good balance between coverage area and maneuverability for getting around joints and into the feathered areas of your dog’s legs.
Best for poodle-type curly coats
If you have a Poodle, Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, or any dog with a similar curly or wavy coat texture, this brush was designed with your dog’s specific needs in mind. The combination of pin length, cushioning, and handle design all work together to tackle that dense, tight curl pattern without causing discomfort or frustration for either you or your dog.
Watch for shipping damage on pins
A few users have reported receiving brushes with bent pins, likely due to rough shipping handling. Before using the brush for the first time, inspect the pins carefully and contact the seller if you notice any bent or damaged pins. DSKRUI apparently has a replacement guarantee for technical issues, which provides some peace of mind with the purchase.
4. Tsxurepaw Undercoat Dog Rake
- Rounded pins are gentle on pet's skin
- Long steel teeth penetrate deep into undercoat
- Anti-slip handle provides optimal control
- Reduces shedding by up to 90%
- Durable and rust-resistant stainless steel
- May be too large for small dogs
- Some users report teeth tips feel slightly scratchy
Tsxurepaw takes a different approach with their grooming tool, opting for a rake design rather than a traditional slicker brush. Undercoat rakes are specifically designed to reach the dense undercoat layer that sits beneath the topcoat in double-coated breeds. If you have a German Shepherd, Husky, Golden Retriever, or similar breed, you know exactly what I am talking about when I mention the undercoat challenge. That soft, fuzzy layer under the longer guard hairs can become a matted mess if not regularly addressed.
The long steel teeth on this rake measure nearly a foot in length, giving them serious penetration capability. I tested this on a German Shepherd mix that was getting close to needing a professional grooming session due to the state of his undercoat. After just two sessions with the Tsxurepaw rake, we had already removed enough loose undercoat to noticeably reduce the matting and improve the coat’s overall appearance.
The rounded pin tips are an important feature for pet comfort. Even though these teeth are long and penetrate deeply, the rounded ends prevent the scratching and poking that can make grooming an unpleasant experience for your dog. The massaging action from the rake motion also seems to relax dogs rather than irritate them, which makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved.
The anti-slip handle with its rubber pad provides good control even during extended grooming sessions. At 5.9 by 1 by 5.3 inches and weighing 7.05 ounces, this rake has some heft to it, which actually helps when you are applying pressure to work through dense undercoat areas. The stainless steel construction is durable and rust-resistant, so this should last through years of regular use.
Excellent for heavy shedders
If your dog is a notorious shedder, the Tsxurepaw can dramatically reduce the amount of fur you find around your home. Users consistently report up to 90% reduction in shedding when using this rake regularly as part of their grooming routine. For large breeds with heavy double coats, this tool should definitely be in your grooming kit.
Too large for small dogs
The size and aggressive nature of this rake make it unsuitable for small dogs or toy breeds. The long teeth can be overwhelming for tiny dogs with less coat density. If you have both large and small dogs, you will need a gentler brush for the smaller members of your pack.
5. MABCM Large Ergonomic Slicker Brush
- Extra long pins reach deep into thick coats
- Solid wooden handle with anti-slip surface
- Retractable cushion pad protects pet's skin
- Includes 2-in-1 stainless steel comb
- Professional quality at home
- Not super easy to clean
- Handle may be too large for some users
The MABCM Large Ergonomic Slicker Brush caught my eye because of its distinctive solid wooden handle. In a market full of plastic and rubber grips, the wooden handle stands out both aesthetically and functionally. I appreciate how it feels in my hand, and several professional groomers I know have mentioned they prefer wooden-handled brushes because of the superior grip and reduced fatigue during long grooming sessions.
The extra-long one-inch pins combined with the curved face design give this brush exceptional coverage and effectiveness. The curved panel design increases the contact area with your dog’s coat, meaning fewer strokes to cover the same ground compared to brushes with flat or smaller heads. For dogs with large body areas to groom, this efficiency is appreciated by both groomer and dog alike.
What really sets this brush apart as a premium option is the inclusion of a 2-in-1 stainless steel comb. This is a genuine added value rather than a token inclusion. The comb has anti-static round teeth that work well for finishing work after you have brushed out the main tangles and loose fur. Having both tools available means you do not need to switch between different grooming implements as frequently.
The retractable cushion pad is gentle on your pet’s skin while still allowing the pins to do their job effectively. This feature prevents that harsh, scraping feeling that some slicker brushes can produce when used aggressively. My test dog has somewhat sensitive skin, and I did not notice any irritation or redness after using this brush, even in areas where I was applying more pressure.
Best for dedicated home groomers
If you take your dog’s grooming seriously and want professional-quality results at home, this MABCM brush plus comb combination delivers. The thoughtful design and quality materials justify the slightly higher price point, and you are essentially getting two professional-grade tools in one package.
Handle size may not suit everyone
The substantial wooden handle that I love might be too large for people with smaller hands. If you have issues with grip strength or smaller hand sizes, you may find this brush unwieldy compared to more compact options.
6. MalsiPree Dog Brush for Shedding
- 2-in-1 design works as deshedding brush and grooming rake
- Gentle on sensitive areas with smooth edges
- Sleek oblong shape fits comfortably in hand
- Works on both dogs and cats
- Effective on double-coated breeds
- May remove too much hair in single session for some dogs
- Some pets may initially be sensitive to the brush
The MalsiPree 2-in-1 design solves a common problem that many dog owners face: having to switch between different tools for different grooming tasks. This brush combines deshedding tool functionality with a grooming rake in a single implement, allowing you to tackle both jobs without putting down one brush and picking up another. I found this particularly useful when grooming my friend’s double-coated mix, who needed both undercoat removal and surface-level detangling.
The smooth edges on this brush deserve special mention. Many deshedding tools have sharp corners or edges that can catch and scratch if you are not extremely careful, especially in sensitive areas like the belly, armpits, and groin. The MalsiPree’s smooth, rounded edges allow you to groom these delicate areas with significantly less worry about causing discomfort or injury to your dog.
The oblong shape fits naturally in your hand, which reduces the strain that can build up during longer grooming sessions. At 7 by 4.6 by 2 inches and weighing just 6.67 ounces, it is well-balanced without being either too heavy or too light. The stainless steel construction ensures durability and resistance to rust, which is important since this brush will likely get wet during bath time grooming sessions.
With over 13,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this brush has proven itself to a large number of dog owners. Users particularly praise its effectiveness on German Shepherds, Goldendoodles, and huskies, which aligns with my testing experience. The dual functionality works well for the variety of coat textures found in these breeds.
Great for transitioning between seasons
Double-coated breeds blow their undercoat twice per year during seasonal transitions, and that is when the MalsiPree really proves its worth. The 2-in-1 design handles the heavy undercoat shedding that occurs during these periods without requiring multiple tools or multiple sessions. Keep this brush handy during spring and fall for the best results.
Easy to over-groom in sensitive dogs
Because this brush is so effective at removing loose hair, it is possible to overdo it in a single session, particularly with dogs that have thinner coats or who are anxious about grooming. Pay attention to your dog’s body language and take breaks if you notice any signs of discomfort or stress.
7. We Love Doodles Pet Dematting Comb
- Double sided design for versatility
- Rounded ends are gentle on pet's skin
- Wooden handle provides comfortable non-slip grip
- Effective on all hair types and sizes
- Great for doodles and thick curly coats
- Some dogs may still dislike brushing
- Sharpness may require careful handling
True to its name, the We Love Doodles Pet Dematting Comb is specifically designed for those challenging doodle and curly-coated breeds that many other brushes struggle with. The double-sided design offers two different tooth spacings or configurations, allowing you to adapt your grooming approach based on your dog’s specific coat condition and texture. I found this versatility particularly useful when dealing with a Goldendoodle who had some areas with light matting and others that were completely tangle-free.
The wooden handle provides a comfortable, non-slip grip that I really appreciated during extended grooming sessions. Wood has a natural warmth and texture that synthetic materials just cannot match, and it stays grippy even when your hands get sweaty or damp. The rounded ends on the stainless steel blades add a safety element that gives me confidence when grooming sensitive areas on my dogs.
At just 3 ounces in weight and with dimensions of 1.06 by 3.74 by 7.3 inches, this comb is compact and easy to maneuver. The lightweight construction means it does not add any fatigue during grooming sessions, even when you are working through a large dog’s entire coat. The double-sided configuration essentially gives you two combs in one, with different tooth spacings to handle everything from light detangling to serious mat removal.
The stainless steel blades are durable and rust-resistant, which is essential for a grooming tool that will inevitably get wet during use. The rounded ends prevent any sharp scraping sensations that could startle or irritate your dog, which is particularly important for dogs who are still building positive associations with grooming time.
Essential for doodle and doodle-mix owners
If you have any breed with a curly or wavy coat that is prone to matting, this comb should be a staple in your grooming kit. The design specifically addresses the challenges that doodle owners face, and the double-sided configuration gives you flexibility to handle both prevention and correction of mats and tangles.
Requires careful technique
The effectiveness of this comb depends somewhat on using proper technique. Work in small sections, hold the hair taut at the base to prevent any pulling sensation on your dog’s skin, and work through mats gradually rather than trying to force through them in a single pass.
8. DOGI Deshedding Brush
- Double row design removes up to 90% of loose hair
- Gentle experience without damaging coat
- Works on dogs
- cats
- rabbits
- and horses
- Promotes healthy skin and shiny coat
- Contouring non-slip handle
- May not reach deep undercoat on very thick fur
- Requires gentle technique for best results
The DOGI Deshedding Brush offers professional-quality grooming at a price that will not break the bank, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious dog owners who still want effective results. With over 4,000 reviews and a strong 4.5-star rating, this brush has proven itself as a reliable workhorse for regular shedding control. The double row of stainless steel pins does an impressive job of grabbing and removing loose fur from the undercoat layer without requiring aggressive brushing motions.
I tested this brush on several different breeds during my evaluation period, including some with surprisingly thick double coats. The results were consistently good, though I did notice that on the absolute thickest coats, I needed to work in smaller sections than with some of the more aggressive rakes. The trade-off is that the gentler action is much more comfortable for the dog, and it does not risk damaging the topcoat the way overzealous deshedding can sometimes do.
The contouring non-slip silicone handle fits the natural shape of your hand, which reduces fatigue during extended grooming sessions. Even during a full grooming session on a large dog, my hand remained comfortable and in control. The handle design also provides good grip even when the brush gets damp, which happens regularly during grooming sessions.
One of the best features of the DOGI brush is its versatility. It works on dogs, cats, rabbits, and horses, making it an excellent choice for multi-pet households. If you have several different animals with grooming needs, you can use the same brush on all of them rather than buying separate tools for each pet.
Best value for regular maintenance
If you are looking for an affordable brush that handles everyday grooming needs without fuss, the DOGI delivers solid performance at a wallet-friendly price. The 90% shedding reduction claim is backed up by consistent user reports, and the gentle action means it works well for frequent use without damaging your dog’s coat over time.
May need multiple passes on thick coats
For dogs with exceptionally dense undercoats, you might find that this brush requires more passes to achieve the same results as more aggressive tools. The trade-off for that gentleness is efficiency, so plan accordingly and do not expect to remove an entire season’s worth of undercoat in a single session.
9. Dipoo Self Cleaning Shedding Brush
- Self cleaning feature with press button
- Soft bristles do not scratch pet's skin
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Lightweight ergonomic TPR handle
- Efficient removal of loose fur
- May not work as well on extremely thick undercoats
- Self-cleaning mechanism may collect fur over time
The Dipoo Self Cleaning Shedding Brush rounds out this list with another solid self-cleaning option that focuses on skin-friendliness and ease of use. With over 6,500 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, this brush has earned its place as a popular choice among dog owners who prioritize comfort for their pets during grooming sessions. The soft plastic round head bristles are designed specifically to massage the skin gently while removing loose fur, rather than scraping or scratching.
I particularly appreciated the lightweight TPR handle during my testing. Thermoplastic rubber provides an excellent balance of grip and comfort, and it does not become tacky or uncomfortable over extended grooming sessions like some rubberized handles can. The self-cleaning mechanism uses a press button design that releases the collected fur with a single press, making cleanup quick and frustration-free.
The premium stainless steel metal and comfortable rubber construction gives this brush a sturdy feel without adding unnecessary weight. At just 5.29 ounces, it is light enough for anyone to use comfortably, and the balanced design means it does not tip or feel unwieldy during use. The 5.91 by 3.15 by 1.57-inch dimensions make it a good mid-size option that works well for most dog sizes.
The soft bristles are genuinely gentle. I tested this brush on a senior dog with somewhat thinning coat and more sensitive skin than she had when younger, and the Dipoo did not cause any irritation or discomfort. The round bristle tips glide over the skin rather than catching or poking, which is essential for dogs who have had negative grooming experiences in the past.
Best for sensitive-skinned dogs
If your dog has sensitive skin, tends to get irritated during grooming, or has any hot spots or skin issues that require gentle handling, the Dipoo’s skin-friendly design makes it an excellent choice. The massaging action is actually pleasant for many dogs rather than irritating.
Less effective on extremely thick coats
The gentleness that makes this brush great for sensitive dogs also means it is less effective on the thickest, most dense undercoats. If you have a breed with an exceptionally heavy double coat, you might want to use this brush for regular maintenance between sessions with a more aggressive deshedding tool.
How to Choose the Right Brush for Your Long-Haired Dog
Understanding the different brush types and what they are designed for is the first step toward effective grooming. Professional groomers typically use a combination of brushes depending on the dog’s coat condition and type. Here is what you need to know about matching the right brush to your dog’s specific needs.
Slicker brushes
Slicker brushes feature short, fine wires packed closely together on a flat or slightly curved base. They are designed for removing tangles and mats on long-haired and double-coated breeds. The fine wires reach down into the coat to grab loose fur and debris that accumulates near the skin. Slicker brushes come in various sizes and wire densities, with softer versions suited for sensitive-skinned dogs and more firm versions for thick, dense coats. The Paw Brothers, Hertzko, and MABCM brushes in my reviews are all slicker brush designs, each offering slightly different variations on this core concept.
Undercoat rakes
Undercoat rakes have longer, widely-spaced teeth designed specifically to penetrate deep into the undercoat layer without disturbing the topcoat. They are essential for double-coated breeds that have that soft, dense undercoat beneath longer guard hairs. The Tsxurepaw and DOGI brushes in my reviews are undercoat rake designs, and the MalsiPree combines rake functionality with deshedding tool features.
Dematting combs
Dematting combs and mat breakers are designed to cut through existing mats rather than just brushing them out. They typically have sharp blades or serrated edges that slice through tangled fur. The We Love Doodles comb in my reviews serves this purpose with its double-sided design offering both aggressive and gentler dematting options.
Consider your dog’s coat type
Not all long-haired dogs have the same coat type, and matching your brush to that specific coat type matters enormously. Silkier coats like those on Afghan Hounds or some setters need gentler brushes that will not strip the natural oils or damage the fine hair shafts. Dense double coats like those on German Shepherds, Huskies, and Golden Retrievers need aggressive undercoat removal tools. Curly and wavy coats like Poodles, Doodles, and Bichon Frises need brushes designed specifically for their texture to prevent mats while still being gentle enough for frequent use.
Handle comfort and grip
You will be holding this brush for potentially extended periods, so handle comfort genuinely matters. Some people prefer the warm feel of wood like the MABCM brush offers, while others like the grippy texture of rubber or silicone handles. Consider your own hand size and grip strength when choosing, and remember that brushes with larger handles are not necessarily better if they do not fit your hand comfortably.
Self-cleaning features save time
If you groom your dog frequently, the self-cleaning feature on brushes like the Hertzko and Dipoo is genuinely valuable. The time savings add up over multiple sessions, and many owners find they are more consistent with grooming when they do not have to struggle with cleaning traditional brushes between strokes.
How Often Should You Brush Your Long-Haired Dog
The frequency of brushing depends heavily on your dog’s specific coat type and condition, but most long-haired dogs benefit from at least two to three brushing sessions per week. Dogs with thicker double coats or curly coats that mat easily might need daily brushing, especially during seasonal coat-blowing periods when they are shedding their undercoat more heavily.
Professional groomers recommend establishing a consistent routine rather than waiting for mats to become severe. A few minutes every few days is much more effective than an hour-long struggle once a month when everything has become hopelessly tangled. Dogs also tend to be more receptive to grooming when it is a regular, predictable part of their routine rather than an occasional stressful event.
Watch for signs that your dog needs brushing more frequently, such as visible matting behind the ears, under the armpits, in the groin area, and on the chest. These areas are particularly prone to mats because they experience more friction and movement. If you start to see tangles forming between grooming sessions, increase your frequency until you find the right balance for your dog’s coat.
FAQ
What kind of brush is best for a long hair dog?
The best brush for your long-haired dog depends on their specific coat type. Slicker brushes like the Paw Brothers Professional work well for dense undercoats, while pin brushes suit silkier coats. Curly coats from doodles and poodles need brushes with cushioned pins like the DSKRUI. Undercoat rakes are essential for double-coated breeds. Most owners benefit from having at least two different brush types.
What brushes do professional dog groomers use?
Professional groomers typically use a combination of brushes including high-quality slicker brushes like the Chris Christensen Big G or Paw Brothers Professional, undercoat rakes for double-coated breeds, and finishing brushes for the topcoat. Many professionals also recommend having dematting combs on hand for severe mats. The specific tools vary based on the breed and coat condition they are working with.
What’s the hardest dog to groom?
Breeds with the most challenging coats for grooming include Afghan Hounds with their long, silky coats that tangle easily, Pulis with their corded coats that require meticulous maintenance, and double-coated breeds like Chow Chows and Samoyeds with their extremely dense undercoats. Doodle mixes can also be challenging due to their combination of curly and dense coat textures.
How do I prevent matting in my long-haired dog?
Preventing mats requires consistent brushing at least two to three times per week, focusing on areas prone to tangling like behind the ears, armpits, and groin. Use the appropriate brush for your dog’s coat type, work in sections, and always brush all the way down to the skin rather than just the surface coat. Regular bathing and thorough drying also help, as clean, conditioned fur is less likely to tangle than dry, dirty coat.
Conclusion
Finding the best dog grooming brushes for long hair comes down to understanding your dog’s specific coat type and grooming needs. Whether you have a dense-coated Golden Retriever, a curly Goldendoodle, or a silky-coated Afghan Hound, there is a brush on this list designed to address your particular challenges. The Paw Brothers Professional Grade Slicker Brush earns my top recommendation for its exceptional extra-long pins and professional-grade construction that handles even the thickest undercoats effectively.
For most dog owners, I recommend starting with a quality slicker brush like the Hertzko if you need something gentle and easy to use, or the Paw Brothers if your dog has a particularly dense coat. If your dog has a curly doodle-type coat, the DSKRUI or We Love Doodles comb will serve you better. And for heavy shedding seasons with double-coated breeds, keep an undercoat rake like the Tsxurepaw or MalsiPree in your grooming kit.
Consistent grooming keeps your long-haired dog comfortable, healthy, and looking their best. If you found this guide helpful, check out our reviews of the best dog toothbrush kits and best dog grooming tables to round out your home grooming setup. Your dog deserves the best care, and having the right tools makes all the difference.





