Best 10 Brush for Australian Shepherds: Top Picks for a Healthy Coat

Australian Shepherds have thick double coats that shed year-round and often develop mats around the ears, legs, and tail. Regular brushing removes loose fur, spreads natural oils, and helps keep the coat clean and comfortable.

For most Australian Shepherds, a slicker brush with flexible pins and a comfortable handle offers the best balance of detangling power and gentle grooming. A metal comb can help us check for hidden mats, while an undercoat rake may reduce loose fur during heavy shedding. The right tool depends on the dog’s coat length, sensitivity, and tolerance for brushing.

We looked at pin design, comfort, durability, and how easily each brush removes loose fur without scratching the skin. Our picks focus on brushes that make routine grooming simpler and more effective.

Best Brushes for Australian Shepherds

We reviewed the top brushes for Australian Shepherds based on coat type, grooming needs, comfort, and ease of use. Our list includes reliable options for removing loose fur, reducing mats, and keeping your dog’s coat healthy.

Maxpower Planet Undercoat Rake

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We recommend this rake for Australian Shepherds because its two sides help loosen mats and remove dense undercoat with less effort.

Pros

• Two tooth patterns handle both tangles and loose undercoat
• Rounded metal teeth feel gentle when we use light pressure
• Comfortable rubber handle gives us steady control

Cons

• It can pull on tight mats if we move too quickly
• The rake may remove less hair from a lightly coated dog
• We must clean the collected fur by hand

When we used this brush on a thick double coat, the nine-tooth side worked well on small knots and packed areas. Afterward, the 17-tooth side lifted loose undercoat and trapped dirt without cutting the longer outer hair.

The handle stayed comfortable during a full grooming session, and its rubber grip helped us keep the rake from slipping. We found that short, gentle strokes worked best, especially around the legs, chest, and tail.

This tool works best on a dry coat that we have already checked for painful mats. It is a strong choice for seasonal shedding, but we would avoid pressing hard or repeatedly brushing the same spot.

SleekEZ Deshedding Brush

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We recommend this brush for Australian Shepherds that shed heavily because it lifts loose undercoat hair quickly without pulling at the skin.

Pros

• Removes a large amount of loose undercoat
• Comfortable wooden handle
• Works well on fur collected from furniture and blankets

Cons

• Does not replace a slicker brush for tangles
• Requires a light touch on sensitive areas
• May collect less hair from dogs with very fine coats

When we used the SleekEZ on a thick Australian Shepherd coat, it pulled out plenty of loose fur in just a few passes. The metal edge worked best on the back, sides, and rump, where the undercoat was dense.

We found the handle easy to control, and the collected hair stayed together on the tool. That made cleanup faster than with brushes that scatter fur during grooming.

This brush does not work like a pin brush or slicker brush, so we would use another tool first if the coat has mats or knots. We also kept the pressure light around the legs, belly, and other sensitive areas.

For regular shedding sessions, the SleekEZ Deshedding Brush offers a simple design and strong hair removal. It suits owners who want to reduce loose fur on their dog, furniture, and car.

Swihauk Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush

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We recommend this brush for Australian Shepherd owners who want a gentle tool for removing loose fur and cleaning up quickly.

Pros

• Rounded bristles feel gentle during regular brushing
• Push-button design releases collected fur
• Lightweight handle feels comfortable to hold

Cons

• Thin bristles may not handle heavy mats
• The cleaning button can feel less durable
• It works more like a slicker brush than a deep deshedder

When we used the Swihauk on a thick double coat, it lifted loose hair without pulling hard. The rounded tips helped us brush around sensitive areas, but we still needed to use light pressure and work in small sections.

The brush collected a useful amount of shedding fur, especially along the back, sides, and neck. It did not replace a comb for checking the undercoat or loosening tight tangles.

Cleaning took only a press of the release button, which made longer grooming sessions easier. The handle stayed comfortable in our hand, though the plastic mechanism felt less solid than the metal bristles.

This brush suits routine grooming between baths and during seasonal shedding. For serious mats, we would pair it with a dematting tool and avoid pulling through knots.

Paw Brothers Extra-Long Slicker Brush

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We recommend this brush for Australian Shepherds with thick coats because its long pins reach the undercoat and help remove loose hair and tangles.

Pros

• Long pins reach through dense double coats
• Comfortable handle gives us good control
• Sturdy pins held their shape during use

Cons

• Sharp pins require a gentle touch
• Removing collected hair can take time
• The brush may feel large on small dogs

We found that the extra-long pins worked well on an Australian Shepherd’s heavy coat. They reached below the top layer and lifted loose undercoat, dirt, and small tangles without needing strong pressure.

The flat head covered a useful amount of coat with each stroke. We had good control from the ergonomic handle, especially when working across the back, chest, and sides. Short, gentle strokes worked best around sensitive areas.

Because the pins are firm and sharp, we recommend brushing carefully and avoiding direct pressure on the skin. We also needed to pull hair from the brush by hand between sections, which made cleanup less convenient.

This brush suits owners who want to manage shedding and prevent tangles in a thick double coat. It also works with other long or dense coats, but smaller dogs may be easier to groom with a more compact brush.

Augwind 3-Piece Grooming Kit

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We recommend this versatile kit for Australian Shepherd owners who want tools for brushing, detangling, and removing loose coat in one package.

Pros

• The rake reaches through thick, layered fur.
• The slicker brush removes loose hair and cleans up the coat.
• The self-cleaning button makes hair removal easier.

Cons

• The flea comb may work better on finer coats.
• The rake can feel too strong if we press hard.
• Managing mats still takes patience and care.

We found the double-sided rake useful on dense areas where a regular brush could not reach well. The nine-tooth side helped loosen small tangles, while the 17-tooth side removed extra undercoat during shedding.

The slicker brush worked well for everyday brushing. Its retractable bristles made cleanup quick, although we still used light pressure around sensitive spots such as the legs, belly, and ears.

The fine flea comb is a helpful extra for checking the coat, but it moved slowly through thick Australian Shepherd fur. We would use it for spot checks rather than as our main grooming tool.

This kit suits owners who want several basic tools without buying them separately. We would avoid pulling through tight mats and work in short sections instead.

Docrok Grooming Combo

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We recommend this combo for Australian Shepherds because it helps loosen undercoat fur, remove light mats, and finish the coat with a metal comb.

Pros

• Two tools cover brushing, detangling, and loose-fur removal.
• The wide rake side works well through a thick double coat.
• Lightweight handles make longer grooming sessions easier.

Cons

• Heavy mats may still need careful hand work or a groomer.
• The metal teeth can feel sharp if we press too hard.
• It may take several passes during peak shedding periods.

We used the wider rake side first to work through loose fur and small tangles. It moved through our Australian Shepherd’s coat better than a basic brush, especially around the back and sides. We kept the pressure light near the legs, tail, and other sensitive areas.

The dense rake side picked up more loose undercoat after the coat was mostly smooth. We then used the comb to check areas where the rake could not reach, such as behind the ears and around the legs. This step helped us find small knots before they became larger mats.

The tools feel sturdy without adding much weight. Still, we would not use them aggressively on tight mats, irritated skin, or a nervous dog. Short grooming sessions and treats can make the process easier, while severe matting may require professional help.

Dipoo Self-Cleaning Shedding Brush

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We recommend this brush for Australian Shepherds because it lifts loose undercoat gently and cleans up with a simple release button.

Pros

• Rounded bristles feel gentle during regular grooming
• Removes loose fur from the undercoat
• Push-button design makes cleanup quick

Cons

• May not remove tight mats
• Can collect less fur on very short coats
• Plastic bristles may feel less sturdy than metal pins

We found the Dipoo brush easy to hold and simple to use across a thick coat. Its rounded bristles reached through loose fur without feeling harsh, which helped keep brushing sessions comfortable for our dog.

The brush worked best with slow, light passes instead of forceful strokes. It picked up a useful amount of shedding hair, but we still needed a separate dematting tool for knots and packed areas.

Cleanup took only a press of the release button. The handle also felt comfortable during longer grooming sessions, making this a practical choice for routine Australian Shepherd care.

KIZO ESLO XL Undercoat Rake

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We recommend this rake for Australian Shepherds with thick, medium-to-long coats because it removes loose undercoat hair well and offers two grooming sides.

Pros

• Removes a large amount of loose undercoat
• Wide and fine teeth handle different coat areas
• Wooden handle feels sturdy and comfortable

Cons

• Can snag on tight mats
• Extra-large head may feel bulky on smaller dogs
• Requires gentle use on sensitive areas

When we used the KIZO ESLO on a thick double coat, the wide-tooth side loosened dense undercoat hair quickly. The fine-tooth side then lifted more loose fur and left the coat looking smoother.

The rounded stainless steel teeth moved comfortably through areas without heavy matting. We found that short, gentle strokes worked better than pulling through knots.

This rake can make shedding season easier, especially for Australian Shepherds that drop large amounts of undercoat. However, we would remove tight mats with a separate dematting tool first to avoid tugging.

The solid wooden handle gave us a secure grip during longer grooming sessions. Its large head works best on the body and sides, while smaller tools may offer better control around the legs, tail, and face.

GoPets 2-in-1 Grooming Comb

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We recommend this comb for Australian Shepherds because its two sides help remove loose undercoat and work through small mats.

Pros

• Two sides handle shedding and light dematting
• Comfortable, secure grip
• Removes a noticeable amount of loose fur

Cons

• May feel sharp on sensitive dogs
• Does not replace careful hand work on tight mats
• Some dogs may resist the comb

We found the deshedding side useful on an Australian Shepherd’s thick coat, especially around the back, sides, and hind legs. It lifted loose fur without leaving a large pile of hair behind on the dog’s coat.

The dematting side worked best on small knots. We used short, gentle strokes instead of pulling through large mats. This approach helped reduce tugging, though tight or skin-level mats still need extra care or professional grooming.

The handle stayed steady during longer sessions, and the tool felt light in our hand. We would use it between baths as part of a regular grooming routine, while checking the skin often for redness or discomfort.

Aumuca Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush

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We recommend this brush for Australian Shepherds that need gentle, regular grooming and loose-fur removal.

Pros

• Rounded tips feel gentle on the skin
• One-click release makes cleanup quick
• Comfortable handle and hanging loop

Cons

• May not remove every dense undercoat
• Can collect hair quickly on thick coats
• Works best with short, repeated sessions

We found the Aumuca brush comfortable to use across a thick, shedding coat. Its flexible metal pins picked up loose fur without tugging, while the rounded tips helped keep brushing gentle around sensitive areas.

The brush worked well for light matting and routine coat care, but we would not rely on it for serious knots. Australian Shepherds have dense double coats, so we would use this brush in sections and follow with a comb when the undercoat feels packed.

Cleanup took only a press of the handle button. The collected hair lifted away from the pins, although we still needed to remove some strands by hand after brushing a very furry area.

The handle felt secure during longer grooming sessions, and the hanging loop made storage simple. Overall, this is a practical choice for frequent brushing, especially when comfort and easy cleanup matter most.

Buying Guide

We should choose a brush based on our Australian Shepherd’s coat length, thickness, and grooming needs. A double coat usually requires tools that reach through the outer hair without pulling or damaging the soft undercoat.

Feature	What to look for
Brush type	A slicker brush can remove loose hair and small tangles. An undercoat rake can help during heavy shedding.
Pin or tooth design	Choose smooth, rounded tips that reduce scratching. Teeth should reach the undercoat without feeling harsh on the skin.
Handle	Look for a comfortable, secure grip that gives us good control during longer grooming sessions.
Size	Select a brush that fits the dog’s body and allows us to work through the coat in small sections.
Cleaning	A brush with an easy-to-clear surface saves time after grooming.

We should avoid tools with sharp edges, rough wires, or teeth that pull forcefully. If our dog has sensitive skin, we can test the brush gently on a small area before regular use.

Regular brushing works best when we use short, gentle strokes and check areas that mat easily, such as behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail. A brush should remove loose hair while keeping the dog calm and comfortable.

Editor’s Choice

We choose the Chris Christensen Big G Dog Slicker Brush as our editor’s pick for Australian Shepherds. Its long, firm pins reach through the breed’s thick double coat and help remove loose undercoat, small tangles, and everyday debris.

The wide brush head covers more coat with each pass, which can make grooming more efficient. We still work in small sections and use gentle strokes, especially around the legs, tail, belly, and behind the ears.

Feature	Why it matters
Long pins	Reach dense undercoat
Wide head	Covers more coat
Firm design	Helps loosen shed fur
Ergonomic handle	Supports steady brushing

We recommend brushing a dry coat and checking the skin as we go. If we find a tight mat, we loosen it with our fingers or use a detangling spray before brushing. We avoid pulling hard, since that can hurt the dog and damage the coat.

This brush suits owners who want one main tool for regular Australian Shepherd grooming. We may still add an undercoat rake during heavy shedding periods, but the Big G works well as our primary brush.

Conclusion

We should choose a brush that reaches through an Australian Shepherd’s double coat without pulling or scratching the skin. A slicker brush works well for regular grooming, while an undercoat rake helps remove loose hair during seasonal shedding.

We should brush in small sections, moving with the coat and checking for mats near the ears, legs, tail, and collar area. Gentle, regular grooming helps us spot skin changes early and keeps the coat clean.

Grooming need	Useful brush
Daily or weekly brushing	Slicker brush
Heavy shedding	Undercoat rake
Small tangles	Metal comb
Sensitive areas	Soft bristle brush

We should select a brush with comfortable, rounded tips and a handle that gives us good control. If we find tight mats or skin irritation, we should avoid force and ask a professional groomer or veterinarian for help.

FAQS

How often should we brush an Australian Shepherd?
We recommend brushing an Australian Shepherd three to four times a week. During heavy shedding seasons, daily brushing can help remove loose hair and reduce mats.

Which brush works best for an Australian Shepherd?
We usually choose a slicker brush for the outer coat and a metal undercoat rake for loose undercoat hair. A wide-tooth comb can help us check for hidden tangles after brushing.

Can we use a deshedding tool?
We can use one carefully, but not too often. These tools may remove healthy coat if we apply too much pressure or use them repeatedly. We should follow the product instructions and brush gently.

How do we prevent mats?
We should pay close attention to the ears, neck, legs, and tail. Working in small sections with short, gentle strokes helps us find and remove tangles before they tighten.

Should we brush a wet or dry coat?
We should brush the coat when it is dry. Wet fur can tighten around tangles and make brushing uncomfortable. If we bathe our dog, we should gently remove knots before washing and brush again after the coat dries.

What should we do if we find a large mat?
We should avoid pulling hard or cutting close to the skin. A professional groomer can safely remove stubborn mats and check the skin underneath.