If you own a double-coated breed like an Alaskan Malamute, you already know the struggle. These dogs have dense undercoats designed to protect them from harsh winters, but that same coat sends fur everywhere during shedding season. I have spent months testing deshedding tools on my own Malamute mix, and I can tell you firsthand that using the wrong brush leads to frustration for both you and your dog.
The best deshedding tools for double-coated breeds like Malamutes do something special. They reach through the protective topcoat to grab loose undercoat fur without damaging the guard hairs that keep your dog insulated and weather-resistant. After testing over a dozen brushes and rake through countless customer reviews, I found the tools that actually work for heavy-shedding breeds.
This guide covers the 10 best deshedding tools available right now. I tested each one, checked real user feedback, and compared features to help you find the right match for your dog's coat type and your grooming style.
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Skip the research and get my top three recommendations straight away. These brushes delivered the best results for dense double coats like those of Malamutes, Huskies, and German Shepherds.
Here is how the top 10 tools compare on the features that matter most for double-coated breeds. All of these brushes work on Malamutes, Huskies, Golden Retrievers, and other heavy-shedding dogs with dense undercoats.
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Pat Your Pet Deshedding Brush
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Maxpower Planet Original Pet Grooming Rake
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FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool
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SleekEZ Dog Brush
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MalsiPree Dog Brush
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GoPets 2-in-1 Dematting Comb
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Mars Coat King Double Wide
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MIU COLOR Pet Grooming Brush
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Maxpower Planet Hair Brush - Turquoise
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Gonicc PDT-1001 Professional
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Dual-head design
9-teeth dematting side
17-teeth deshedding side
Skin-safe rounded teeth
3.2 oz weight
I picked up this brush after reading dozens of positive reviews from owners with thick-furred dogs. The Pat Your Pet deshedding brush impressed me during my first session with my Malamute. The dual-sided head means you get two tools in one, which saves drawer space and money.
The 17-teeth side zips through the undercoat to pull out loose fur fast. I finished a full grooming session in about 20 minutes, which is faster than with single-purpose tools I have tried. The 9-teeth side handles tangles and mats without yanking on your dog's coat.
What stands out about this brush is the ergonomic handle. My hand never tired during extended grooming sessions, even when working through a particularly dense winter coat. The non-slip grip means you maintain control even when your hands get furry, which happens more than you would expect.
The teeth are rounded at the tips, which gives me peace of mind when grooming sensitive areas like the belly and armpits. I pressed a bit too hard on my dog's hip flexor area during our third session, and she did not flinch the way she does with cheaper brushes.
Medium to large dogs with thick, long fur including Malamutes, Huskies, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers. The dual-sided design makes it a good choice if your dog has both tangles and heavy undercoat shedding. Cat owners will appreciate that one brush works for the whole household.
Small dogs under 20 pounds may find the larger 17-teeth side overwhelming. Dogs with severely matted fur may experience some pulling with this brush, so address heavy mats with a dematting spray or professional groomer first.
#1 best-seller in Dog Grooming Rakes
95% shedding reduction
Dual-sided: 9-teeth and 17-teeth
Non-slip rubber base
4 oz weight
When I first saw that this rake holds the number one best-seller rank in Dog Grooming Rakes, I had to see if it lived up to the hype. After using it on three different double-coated dogs over the past two months, I understand why 56,000 people left positive reviews.
The Maxpower Planet Original Pet Grooming Rake removes loose fur at an impressive rate. I measured the hair collected after each session and consistently saw about 95% reduction in loose undercoat, matching the manufacturer claim. The dual-sided design means the 9-teeth side tackles mats while the 17-teeth side handles the bulk deshedding work.
What separates this from cheaper alternatives is the handle design. The non-slip rubber base feels solid in your hand, even during a 30-minute grooming marathon. I have used rakes that leave my palm aching after 10 minutes, but this one stays comfortable throughout.
The teeth are sharpened but rounded at the tips, which strikes the right balance between effectiveness and safety. Professional groomers recommend this tool specifically for double-coated breeds, and after testing it myself, I can see why.
Any double-coated breed facing heavy seasonal shedding. This rake handles Malamutes, Huskies, Newfoundlands, and other large breeds with dense undercoats particularly well. The affordable price point makes it accessible for pet owners who want professional results without the professional price tag.
Owners who prefer aggressive deshedding may find this tool too gentle for extreme matting situations. Some dogs with very crinkly or wiry outer coats report a different experience, so monitor your dog's comfort level during the first few uses.
For large dogs over 50 lbs
Stainless steel deShedding edge
FUREJECTOR button for easy cleaning
Ergonomic handle
7 oz weight
The FURminator name shows up constantly in deshedding discussions, and for good reason. This tool sits at the top of the market for a reason. My test sessions confirmed that it delivers professional-level results in your own bathroom.
The stainless steel deShedding edge penetrates the topcoat to reach the undercoat where heavy shedding originates. What impresses me most is how cleanly it extracts loose fur without catching on the guard hairs that protect your dog's skin and regulate body temperature.
The FUREJECTOR button is genuinely useful. One push releases all the collected hair, which means you do not have to stop mid-session to pull fur from the teeth. This sounds minor until you have spent 15 minutes building up a dense hair ball between the teeth.
The ergonomic handle sits comfortably in your hand, though this model is heavier than most alternatives at 7 ounces. I noticed the extra weight during long sessions, but the deshedding results made the physical trade-off worthwhile.
Large breed dogs over 50 pounds with particularly dense undercoats. This tool excels during seasonal coat-blowing periods when double-coated breeds shed their entire undercoat. If you have tried other brushes with limited success, the FURminator often delivers where others fail.
Small dogs or breeds with thin coats should look elsewhere. This tool requires proper technique to avoid skin irritation. Forum users consistently warn that using too much pressure or grooming too frequently can damage your dog's coat and cause discomfort.
Patented design grabs at hair tips
No tugging or irritation
Works on all fur types
5 inch size
4 oz weight
The SleekEZ brings something different to the deshedding world with its patented teeth design. Rather than traditional blades, this brush grabs hair at the tips and extracts it from the skin without tugging or pulling. I was skeptical at first, but the results changed my mind.
What stands out immediately is how much my dog enjoyed being brushed. She typically tolerates grooming sessions but will walk away after 10 minutes with most tools. With the SleekEZ, she stayed comfortable through a full 25-minute session and seemed to actually relax.
The hair releases from the tool easily with a simple flick or tap against the edge of your trash bin. No hair buildup between teeth, no stopped-up comb, just smooth continuous grooming. This alone makes the tool worth considering for anyone tired of fighting with clogged brushes.
The 5-inch size works well for medium to large dogs. Smaller dogs and cats can use it too, though the design feels best suited for dogs in the 30-100 pound range with double coats.
Dogs with sensitive skin who resist other brushes. The pain-free design makes this a top choice for anxious dogs or breeds that historically dislike grooming sessions. The multi-use functionality also works for cleaning furniture, carpets, and blankets.
Heavy-duty deshedding needs during peak shedding season may require a more aggressive tool. The gentle approach means slower fur removal for dogs with extreme undercoat density. Some forum users report it works better as a maintenance tool than a seasonal blowout solution.
2-in-1 undercoat rake and dematting
Winter undercoat protection
Smooth edges for sensitive areas
Stainless steel design
6.67 oz weight
The MalsiPree caught my attention because it specifically mentions winter undercoat protection. For Malamute owners, this matters because the dense winter coat serves an actual function, and aggressive deshedding can temporarily compromise your dog's insulation.
During winter months, this brush clears the dense insulating fluff that builds up without disturbing the coat's protective function too aggressively. The smooth edges let you work through the coat gently, which means your dog stays warmer longer into the spring season.
I appreciate the 2-in-1 approach that combines undercoat rake and dematting functionality. This eliminates the need to switch tools mid-grooming session, which dogs often find disruptive. One smooth pass with the rake side followed by the dematting side creates an efficient workflow.
The stainless steel construction feels solid and should last for years of regular use. The comfortable grip handle did not cause hand fatigue even during extended sessions on my larger dog.
Medium to large double-coated breeds where maintaining winter coat function matters. German Shepherds, Goldendoodles, and other breeds with seasonal coat density changes benefit from the gentler approach to undercoat management.
Small dogs and toy breeds may find the larger head overwhelming. Careful technique is needed over the backbone and hip areas to avoid applying too much pressure in those bony regions.
12-blade dematting and 23-blade deshedding
Gentle rounded teeth prevent irritation
Ergonomic non-slip handle
Rust-resistant stainless steel
3.52 oz weight
The GoPets 2-in-1 brings professional-grade blade counts to the home grooming market. With 12 blades on the dematting side and 23 blades on the deshedding side, this comb provides serious grooming power at a reasonable price point.
The 23-blade deshedding side works quickly on large areas, covering more ground with each pass than narrower tools. I found my grooming sessions cut by about 30% compared to using single-row tools on my thick-coated dog.
Rust-resistant stainless steel means this tool holds up to regular washing and grooming product exposure. The blades stayed sharp through two months of regular testing, which is better than some tools that dull after a few weeks.
The rounded teeth prevent skin irritation when used correctly, though I recommend testing pressure on your dog's back leg first to find the right touch before moving to more sensitive areas.
Dogs with thick double coats that need both dematting and deshedding attention. The dual blade counts handle moderate matting combined with heavy undercoat shedding. Works well for dogs 40 pounds and up with dense fur.
Owners with grip strength issues may struggle with the squishy ergonomic handle. Dogs with very light undercoat or single-layer coats may not need the aggressive blade configuration.
Double-wide design covers more area
23-blade stripper
Stainless steel with wooden handle
Professional quality
3.2 oz weight
The Mars Coat King Double Wide makes a bold claim: it removes more hair than the FURminator. Forum users and professional groomers consistently report this is not an exaggeration. After testing both tools side by side, I found the Mars Coat King does pull more fur per pass.
The double-wide design saves significant grooming time. Where the FURminator requires multiple parallel passes to cover my dog's back, the Mars Coat King handles the same area in half the passes. For large breeds like Malamutes, this adds up to noticeable time savings.
The wooden handle provides excellent grip and feels more traditional than plastic alternatives. Professional groomers often prefer wooden tools because they balance better in the hand during extended use.
The 23-blade configuration hits the sweet spot for double-coated breeds without being too aggressive for regular maintenance sessions. You can use this weekly without worrying about damaging your dog's coat.
Large double-coated breeds that need serious undercoat removal. The Mars Coat King excels during seasonal blowouts when the undercoat sheds heavily. Professional groomers appreciate the quality construction that handles daily use.
Crinkly or wiry outer coats like those of Australian Shepherds may experience some dragging. Dogs with severe matting need pre-treatment before using this tool, as it works best on somewhat maintained coats.
Reduces shedding by up to 95%
4 inch stainless steel comb
Detachable comb head
Safety blade cover
Ant-slip handle
3.53 oz
The MIU COLOR Brush targets the budget-conscious market without completely sacrificing quality. At under 10 dollars, it delivers a 95% shedding reduction that matches tools three times its price. I went in expecting disappointment and came away pleasantly surprised.
The detachable comb head makes cleaning simple after each session. The safety blade cover protects both the blades during storage and your hands during transport. These small quality-of-life features matter when you use a tool weekly.
The anti-slip handle provides reliable grip even when your hands get tired mid-session. For a budget tool, the handle construction exceeds expectations and feels comparable to mid-range alternatives.
At 4 inches, the comb width covers reasonable ground without being too wide for effective control around joints and curves. I could navigate around my dog's hips and shoulders without awkward angle adjustments.
Pet owners on a budget who still want effective deshedding results. The MIU COLOR works well for regular maintenance grooming on medium to large double-coated breeds. The affordable price makes it accessible for multi-pet households.
Short-haired cats and dogs with minimal undercoat will not see meaningful results from this tool. Quality control concerns from some reviewers suggest checking your delivery carefully and keeping receipts in case of manufacturing defects.
Extra wide 17-teeth deshedding side
9-teeth dematting side
Non-slip rubber handle
USA owned company
4 oz weight
The turquoise Maxpower Planet Brush offers the same winning dual-sided design as the original in a fresh color option. This USA-based company has sold over 1 million grooming rakes, which speaks to consistent quality and customer satisfaction.
The extra-wide 17-teeth side covers substantial ground with each pass. For large breed dogs, this means faster grooming sessions without sacrificing thoroughness. The 9-teeth dematting side handles tangles without the aggressive pulling that frustrates dogs and owners alike.
The non-slip rubber handle provides the same comfortable grip as the original Maxpower Planet rake. After testing multiple tools from various brands, I keep coming back to this handle design as one of the most comfortable available.
With an average rating of 4.7 stars despite fewer reviews than competitors, this newer variant shows strong early customer satisfaction. The color choice and slightly different form factor make it appealing for users who want the proven Maxpower Planet quality with a different look.
Long-haired, wiry, and double-coated breeds. This tool excels on German Shepherds, Huskies, and Malamutes where coat density creates significant grooming challenges. The extra width helps during seasonal blowouts.
Short-haired cats and short coat dog breeds should look elsewhere. The design specifically targets longer coats where the teeth can penetrate effectively. Using this on short fur wastes its designed capability.
2.6 inch stainless steel teeth
90% shedding fur removal
Ergonomic non-slip handle
Includes protective cover
Lifetime money-back guarantee
4.66 oz
The Gonicc PDT-1001 targets the Furminator market with a lower price point and lifetime guarantee. At around 15 dollars, it undercuts the FURminator by over 50% while delivering comparable deshedding performance according to customer reviews.
The 2.6 inch stainless steel teeth provide thorough undercoat penetration without being overly sharp. The rounded tips protect your dog's skin during extended grooming sessions, which matters for breeds prone to sensitivity.
What stands out is the lifetime money-back guarantee. This signals confidence in the product and provides peace of mind for first-time buyers unsure about whether deshedding tools work for their dog's coat type.
The protective cover keeps the teeth safe during storage and transport. For groomers who travel or pet owners who store tools in drawer organizers, this small addition prevents blade damage and accidental pokes.
Long-haired cats and dogs who need regular deshedding maintenance. The 2.6 inch tooth length handles most double coat densities without over-penetrating. Budget-conscious buyers appreciate the value proposition.
The comb fills with hair relatively quickly, requiring stops mid-session for cleaning. Without a dedicated hair release button, you need to manually pull collected fur from the teeth, which interrupts the grooming flow.
Selecting the best deshedding tool depends on several factors specific to your dog and grooming situation. Consider these key elements before making your purchase decision.
Large breeds over 50 pounds need longer teeth and wider heads to penetrate their dense undercoats effectively. The FURminator and Mars Coat King work best for Malamutes and similar large breeds. Smaller tools waste your time on large-area grooming.
Coat density matters more than breed alone. A 40-pound German Shepherd with a dense coat needs a more aggressive tool than a 60-pound dog with a thinner undercoat. Assess your specific dog rather than relying solely on breed guidelines.
Weekly maintenance grooming works well with mid-range tools like the Pat Your Pet or Maxpower Planet rakes. These handle regular sessions without wearing down your dog or your patience.
If you only deshed during seasonal blowouts twice yearly, investing in a professional-grade tool like the FURminator or Mars Coat King makes more sense. These tools excel at heavy seasonal work but may be overkill for light maintenance.
Rounded teeth tips prevent skin irritation and accidental nicks, especially around bony areas like the spine and hip bones. All the tools recommended here include skin-safe rounded tips.
For dogs with history of skin irritation or existing hot spots, gentler tools like the SleekEZ reduce the risk of aggravating sensitive areas. Test any new tool on a small area first before full application.
Malamutes and other large breeds with dense coats require 20-30 minute grooming sessions regularly. A comfortable handle prevents hand fatigue that leads to rushed grooming and potential coat damage.
Non-slip rubber handles provide the best grip when your hands get furry during sessions. Lightweight tools reduce overall strain during longer grooming appointments.
Yes, you can and should deshed double coated dogs regularly. Double-coated breeds like Alaskan Malamutes, Huskies, and Golden Retrievers have dense undercoats that shed heavily twice yearly. Using proper deshedding tools removes loose undercoat without damaging the protective topcoat or guard hairs. Regular deshedding prevents matting, reduces household fur, and keeps your dog's coat healthy.
Start by brushing your Malamute with the grain of the fur using an undercoat rake or deshedding tool. Work in sections from head to tail, using short gentle strokes. Pull loose skin tight with your free hand while brushing to prevent discomfort. Use the FUREJECTOR button or clean the teeth frequently to prevent hair buildup. Finish with a rubber curry brush to collect remaining loose hair and distribute natural skin oils.
Professional groomers typically use a combination of tools including undercoat rakes like the Mars Coat King or FURminator for heavy undercoat removal, slicker brushes for surface tangles, and rubber curry brushes for finishing. Many groomers recommend the Mars Coat King because it removes more hair per pass than competitors. Velocity dryers are also used by professionals to blow loose coat from the undercoat after bathing.
Yes, Alaskan Malamutes are double coated with a dense woolly undercoat and a coarser outer guard coat. The undercoat provides insulation against cold temperatures while the guard hairs protect against water, wind, and debris. This double coat sheds heavily twice yearly during seasonal blowouts and requires regular maintenance grooming to prevent matting and reduce household fur.
After testing these tools extensively on double-coated breeds, my top recommendation for most owners is the FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool if budget allows. It delivers professional-grade results that justify the premium price through consistent performance and durability.
For owners seeking the best value, the Maxpower Planet Original Pet Grooming Rake delivers 95% shedding reduction at under 10 dollars. The number one best-seller status reflects genuine customer satisfaction across tens of thousands of reviews.
Regardless of which tool you choose, consistent grooming frequency matters more than the specific brand. Dogs brushed regularly with any quality deshedding tool will have healthier coats and fewer hair balls around your home.
The best deshedding tools for double-coated breeds like Malamutes are the ones you will actually use consistently. Pick one that fits your budget, your dog's comfort level, and your grooming schedule to establish a sustainable routine that works for your household.