German shepherd owners are all too familiar with the challenges of trying to find the right brush for their furry friend. With so many types, brands, and prices on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. Do you need a slicker brush or a pin brush?
And is it worth spending extra on a name-brand brush? To complicate matters further, German shepherds can come in different coat types – from short and smooth to long and thick – so what works for one dog may not be suitable for another.
That’s why our reviews and buyer’s guide are here to help. We’ll take you through all the different types of brushes available and help you find the best one for your dog.
We’ll also give you some tips on what to look for when choosing a brush and how to use it effectively. So whether you’re looking for a de-shedding tool, a slicker brush, or something else entirely, we’ve got you covered.
Our Top Picks for The Best Brushes for German Shepherds
- FURminator Undercoat deShedding Tool – Best De-Shedding
- Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush – Best Slicker Brush
- GoPets Dematting Comb – Best De-Matting Comb
- KONG – Zoom Groom Dog Brush – Best for Bathing
- Chris Christensen Natural Boar Bristles Brush – Best Bristle
- Handson Pet Grooming Gloves – Best Grooming Gloves
- Soft Bristle Pet Brush by Hertzko – Best Soft Brush
- Chris Christensen Oval Pin Brush – Best Pin Brush
- KylePet Double-Sided Brush – Best Double-Sided
- Complete Professional Pet Grooming Kit – Best All-in-One
15 Best Brushes for German Shepherds Reviewed
1. FURminator Undercoat deShedding Tool ( Best De-Shedding)
Have you ever looked at your German shepherd and thought, “My goodness, what a hairy beast!” Well, you’re not alone. German shepherds are notorious for their thick, double-layered coats, which can shed heavily year-round.
Fortunately, there’s a tool that can help to reduce shedding and keep your dog’s coat healthy and lustrous: the FURminator Undercoat deShedding Tool.
This tool is designed specifically for large dogs such as German shepherds, and it safely removes loose undercoat hair without cutting the skin or damaging the topcoat.
The Furminator is easy to use, as it doesn’t require any special expertise or technique. You simply brush your shepherd’s coat in the direction of hair growth, and the tool does the rest.
The Furminator is a great tool, but it can be easily destroyed if your dog is a strong chewer. But again, all brushes won’t stand up to large dogs like German shepherds, so this isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker.
Just keep in mind that you may need to replace the Furminator after a few months (or sooner) if your dog is particularly hard on his toys and tools.
Pros:
- Reduce shedding by up to 90%.
- Curve design follows the natural shape of the pet’s body.
- Remove loose undercoat hair without damaging the topcoat.
- Easy to use.
- Ergonomic handle.
Cons:
- Can be easily destroyed by strong chewers.
2. Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush (Best Slicker Brush)
The Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush is the best slicker brush for German Shepherds, and it’s not even close. Over two million of these brushes have been sold, making it the clear choice for German Shepherd owners everywhere.
The Hertzko brush is the perfect tool to get all those nasty mats out of your Shepherd’s fur – and trust me, there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing a big pile of dog hair after a good brushing session.
The bristles are fine bent wires that are able to groom the undercoat well without scratching your shepherd’s skin, making this brush ideal for sensitive dogs. Plus, the self-cleaning feature means that you’ll never have to deal with a hairy brush again.
The downside was that some dog parents wished that the plastic on the stress point of the handle was stronger. If the handle were made of more durable material, it would be less likely to break.
Pros:
- Fine bent wires remove mats and tangles without scratching the skin.
- An anti-slip handle makes it easy to use.
- The self-cleaning feature keeps the bristles clean and free of hair.
Cons:
- The handle was made of plastic, which might not be as durable as some dog parents would like.
3. GoPets Dematting Comb (Best De-Matting Comb)
The GoPets Dematting Comb is the best de-matting comb for German shepherds for a number of reasons.
First, it is double-sided, with a lower density side that is perfect for removing knots and tangles, and a higher density side that is ideal for raking through the undercoat.
Second, the comb is made from high-quality materials with sharp stainless steel teeth that are able to penetrate even the thickest of coats. But don’t worry – the tips of the teeth are blunted so they won’t scratch your shepherd’s skin.
And third, the handle is ergonomically designed to reduce hand and wrist fatigue during long grooming sessions.
The only downside to this comb is that the plastic tip on the opposite end of the handle can break easily. But you can simply super glue it back on, and it will be as good as new.
Pros:
- Dual-sided comb with different tooth densities for different coat types.
- Sharp stainless steel teeth penetrate even the thickest of coats.
- An ergonomic handle reduces hand and wrist fatigue.
Cons:
- The plastic tip on the handle can break easily.
4. KONG – Zoom Groom Dog Brush (Best for Bathing)
There’s no question that the KONG – Zoom Groom Dog Brush is one of the best brushes for bathing German shepherds. Customers rave about how well it works on their dogs, and they love that it also does a great job on their furniture.
The secret to its success? Two words: rubber bristles. Rubber bristles are superior to other types of bristles because they are able to massage the dog’s skin and loosen up dirt and debris at the same time.
Plus, they are gentle enough to use on a daily basis without irritating the dog’s skin. And since German shepherds have particularly sensitive skin, this is an important consideration.
While the rubber bristles were a major selling point of the KONG – Zoom Groom Dog Brush, some dog parents said that the hair did not “stick” to the brush, but rather stays loose on their dog’s back.
This can be a bit of a nuisance since you have to brush away the loose hair before you can move on to the next area.
Pros:
- Best for washing due to rubber bristles.
- Bristles are gentle enough for pups or senior dogs.
- Works well on furniture too.
Cons:
- The hair did not stick to the brush but rather stayed loose on the dog’s back.
5. Chris Christensen Natural Boar Bristles Brush (Best Bristle)
When it comes to choosing the best brush for German shepherds, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. However, the Chris Christensen Natural Boar Bristles Brush is definitely a great option for many German shepherd parents.
Unlike other brushes that can damage the coat or irritate the skin, this brush is designed to be gentle and effective.
The natural boar bristles help to distribute the dog’s natural oils back into the coat, promoting a healthy shine. In addition, the bristles stimulate the skin follicles, promoting growth and encouraging a healthy coat.
And not forget to mention that the handle fits comfortably in the hand, making it easy to use.
While the Chris Christensen Natural Boar Bristles Brush was a great option for many German shepherd parents, some dog parents felt this was too soft for their dogs. They prefer a brush with stiffer bristles that could penetrate the coat more deeply.
The best way to determine if this brush is right for you and your dog is to try it out and see if it works for your individual dog’s coat and skin type.
Pros:
- Help to distribute the dog’s natural oils back into the coat.
- Stimulates the skin follicles, promoting growth and encouraging a healthy coat.
- Fits comfortably in the hand.
Cons:
- Some dog parents felt this was too soft for their dogs.
6. Handson Pet Grooming Gloves (Best Grooming Gloves)
If you’re looking for the best grooming gloves for German shepherds, you’ll want to get your hands on a pair of Handson Pet Grooming Gloves. These gloves boast a five-finger design that allows for a versatile grooming experience from head to tail.
These gloves not only keep your hands and fingernails clean from dirt and oil, but they also help to massage your dog’s coat and promote healthy circulation due to the nonabrasive flexible rubber tips.
And if you’re worried about how to clean these gloves, don’t be! To clean, simply rinse the gloves off with water and allow them to air dry, or use your washing machine on a gentle cycle.
The downside to using these gloves frequently is that they may not be too durable. They may tear or rip if they are used too often. This is often experienced by professional groomers who have to use these gloves multiple times a day.
If you’re just an ordinary dog owner, though, this probably won’t be an issue for you.
Pros:
- Keeps your hands and fingernails clean from dirt and oil.
- A wide range of grooming functions (de-shedding, bathing, or massaging)
- Can be used on wet or dry coats.
- Gives a relaxing massage while grooming.
Cons:
- Not the best option if you use it multiple times a day.
7. Soft Bristle Pet Brush by Hertzko (Best Soft Brush)
Looking for a soft brush that’s gentle and safe for your German shepherd? Look no further than the Hertzko Soft Bristle Pet Brush. This brush is specifically designed to be gentle on your dog’s coat, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.
The soft bristles help to remove loose hair, dirt, and debris without damaging the coat or irritating the skin. In addition, the bristles are also great for massaging the skin and promoting circulation.
The ergonomic design of the handle makes it comfortable to hold, plus, Hertzko offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
While the brush was able to remove loose hair and eliminate tangles, dander, and trapped dirt, some dog parents found that it did not work as well on thicker coats. Therefore, we only recommend this brush for German shepherd puppies or those with shorter hair.
Pros:
- Easy to hold.
- Lightweight.
- Easy to use.
- Gentle on the skin.
Cons:
- Not as effective on thicker coats.
8. Chris Christensen Oval Pin Brush (Best Pin Brush)
If you’re looking for a top-quality pin brush for German shepherds, the Chris Christensen Oval Pin Brush is the way to go. This brush is specifically designed to be gentle on delicate and fragile coats, making it ideal for German shepherds.
Made with high-quality stainless steel pins, this brush penetrates deep into the coat to remove dirt and debris. With 30% more pins than the traditional pin brush, this brush gives a thorough and effective grooming experience.
Plus, the ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip, even when your dog is wriggling around. So why settle for anything less than the best?
The downside to using this brush was that some dog parents found that it had a quality control issue. Some batches of the brush came with a missing pin in the cushion.
Pros:
- Gentle on delicate and fragile coats.
- More pins than the traditional pin brush.
- Ergonomic handle for a comfortable grip.
- High-quality stainless steel pins.
Cons:
- Some quality control issues.
9. KylePet Double-Sided Brush (Best Double-Sided)
The KylePet Double-Sided Brush is our top pick for the best double-sided brush for German shepherds. This brush has two different types of bristles on either side to help you tackle any grooming job.
Its unique 2-in-1 design combines the bristle side and the pin side into one brush, making it the perfect tool for keeping your dog’s coat healthy and lustrous. The bristles help to remove loose hair and dirt, while the pins provide deep cleaning and grooming.
Made from high-quality bamboo materials, this brush is eco-friendly. In addition, the bamboo is also antimicrobial and resists mold and mildew so it will last for years. It’s also comfortable to hold, thanks to its ergonomic design.
The downside to using the KylePet Double-Sided Brush was that some dog parents found it to be too small. They wished it was bigger so that it would be easier to use on larger dogs. Nonetheless, this brush is still a great option for average-sized German shepherds.
Pros:
- Bristle and pin brush in one.
- Eco-friendly bamboo construction.
- Comfortable to hold.
- Easy to clean.
Cons:
- Some dog parents found it to be too small.
10. Complete Professional Pet Grooming Kit (Best All-in-One)
So you’ve just adopted your very first German shepherd. Congratulations! These beautiful dogs are loyal, protective, and full of energy. They’re also known for being shedding machines.
Without proper grooming, your home will quickly be covered in a layer of fur. That’s why you need the Complete Professional Pet Grooming Kit. This all-in-one kit includes everything you need to keep your German shepherd looking and feeling great.
The self-cleaning slicker brush is perfect for removing loose hair, while the de-shedding grooming brush helps to reduce shedding by up to 95%. And if you want to give them a little extra TLC, the pair of grooming gloves will let you do just that
While this kit was a great starter set, some dog parents found that as their dog grew, this kit no longer met their needs.
For example, the de-shedding tool might not be as effective on larger dogs. And the slicker brush might not be able to reach all the way down to the skin of a taller dog.
Nonetheless, this set is still a great way to get started with grooming your German shepherd.
Pros:
- All-in-one grooming kit.
- Decent quality for the price.
- Easy to clean.
Cons:
- Might not be suitable once your dog grows.
11. Maxpower Planet Pet Grooming Brush
If you own a German shepherd, then you know that grooming can be a bit of a challenge. Their thick fur is prone to matting, and they shed a lot. The Maxpower Planet Pet Grooming Brush is a great option to consider for grooming German shepherds.
It has a dual-sided design that includes a de-matting brush and an undercoat rake. The de-matting brush is great for removing tangles and mats from the fur while the undercoat rake helps to loosen and remove dead hair from the undercoat.
Moreover, the ergonomic design of the brush makes it comfortable to hold, and the non-slip grip ensures that you won’t lose your grip while brushing.
However, some dog parents warned that you needed to be very careful using this brush, as it could easily remove a lot of furs – both dead and alive.
Pros:
- Dual-sided design.
- Lightweight and comfortable to hold.
- Comes in 7 attractive colors.
Cons:
- Can remove too much fur if you’re not careful.
12. DakPets Pet Grooming Brush
The DakPets Pet Grooming Brush is the result of years of research by pet grooming experts. They knew that there was a need for a brush that would be gentle on pets’ skin and coats, while also being effective at removing loose hair.
To that end, they developed a brush made from non-irritation materials that are safe for even the most sensitive pets. The result is a brush that you see before you.
It’s suitable for pets with both single and double coats, making it a handy tool regardless of whether your dog has a single coat or double coat.
The best part is that it comes with a money-back satisfaction guarantee, so you can always return it if you’re not happy with it.
While this brush was a great option for German shepherds, some dog parents complained that the blade protector was cheaply made and easily felt off if hit unexpectedly.
Pros:
- Gently removes loose hair.
- Safe for even the most sensitive pets.
- Durable rubber handle.
Cons:
- Cheap blade protector.
13. SleekEZ Original Undercoat Brush
The SleekEZ Original Undercoat Brush has won recognition as an effective de-shedding tool for Dogs, Cats & Horses. It’s made with its own patented design and is said to work like a ‘magic wand’ when it comes to dealing with shedding animals.
Not only will it help reduce the amount of hair your dog sheds by up to 95%, but you can also say goodbye to painful brushing sessions. Thanks to its Patented Wave Pattern Blade, the SleekEZ will glide through your dog’s fur effortlessly.
And if you’re still not sure you can read many positive reviews from happy customers that have used this product on their own shedding animals.
The SleekEZ Original Undercoat Brush did a great job of reducing shedding, but some large dog owners said it was nearly impossible to use in the neck and chest areas. The blade was too short to reach those areas.
Pros:
- Effortlessly removes loose hair.
- Easy to clean.
- Works as well furniture, pet beds, etc.
Cons:
- Too short to reach some areas on large dogs.
14. Solid Pet Slicker Brush
This brush is designed to stop shedding at the source, and it does a great job of getting all of the loose hair out of your dog’s coat. They work well on both short-haired and long-haired dogs.
The bristles are non-buffered and have rounded tips, so they are gentle on your dog’s skin. The ergonomic design of the brush makes it easy to hold, and the simple clean button makes it easy to remove the hair from the bristles.
However, some dog parents warned that this brush was only good for dogs with thick undercoats. If you have a small dog or a dog with a short coat, this brush may not be the best option for you.
Pros:
- Penetrates deep into the coat while being gentle on the skin.
- Easy to use clean button.
- Ergonomic handle.
Cons:
- Only good for dogs with thick undercoats.
15. Ruff ‘N Ruffus Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
The Ruff ‘N Ruffus Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush is the ultimate pet grooming tool. It comes with a slicker de-matting brush and a heavy-duty pet nail clipper.
The metal bristles are capped with plastic to protect delicate skin. The self-cleaning feature means that you’ll never have to deal with a messy brush again – simply push the button and the bristles will retract into the handle, leaving the brush clean and ready to use.
The clippers are sturdy and easy to grasp, they are large enough to trim any small animal’s nails, so you can use them on your dog, cat, rabbit, or ferret with no problem. No more overgrown nails sharpening themselves on your furniture or floors
The only downside to this product was that some dog parents felt the brush was too bulky for their dogs. Depending on the size of your dog, this may not be an issue.
Pros:
- You get a nail clipper as a bonus.
- The self-cleaning feature keeps the brush clean.
- The large nail clippers are easy to use.
Cons:
- Too bulky for some dogs.
Best Brushes for German Shepherds Buying Guide, Tips, and FAQ
In the following sections, we’ll cover what you should look for when choosing a brush for your German shepherd. We’ll also answer some of the most frequently asked questions about brushing German shepherds.
What To Look For When Buying A Brush For Your German Shepherd
When choosing a brush for your German shepherd, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
Type of hair
The first thing to consider is the type of hair your German shepherd has. German shepherds can have either long or short hair. Long-haired German shepherds will need a different type of brush than short-haired German shepherds.
Type of brush
The next thing to consider is the type of brush. There are several different types of brushes available, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages.
For example, slicker brushes are perfect for removing tangles and mats, while pin brushes are ideal for distributing natural oils throughout the coat.
In addition, bristle brushes can help to remove dead hair and promote healthy growth. Ultimately, the best brush for your German Shepherd will depend on their individual needs.
Durability
German shepherds are known for being tough on their toys, and a brush is no exception. You’ll want to choose a brush that can stand up to heavy chewing and regular use.
Safety
The next thing to consider is safety. You’ll want to make sure the brush you choose won’t scratch or injure your German shepherd’s skin. Look for brushes with rounded tips that have some protection features such as a tip guard.
Comfort
Comfort is also important. You’ll want to make sure the brush you choose is comfortable for both you and your German shepherd. Look for a brush with an ergonomic handle that will fit comfortably in your hand. In addition, make sure the bristles are soft enough to be gentle on your dog’s skin.
Ease of use
Finally, you’ll want to make sure the brush you choose is easy to use. Look for a brush with detachable parts that can be easily cleaned or self-cleaning features.
What Type Of Hair Does Your German Shepherd Have?
Most German shepherds have double coats, which means they have a dense, furry outer coat and a softer undercoat. The outer coat is called the guard coat, and it’s what you see when you look at a German shepherd. The undercoat is called the down coat, and it’s what provides insulation and protection from the elements.
Most German shepherds have short hair, but some have long hair. Long-haired German shepherds have a gene mutation that gives them an extended growth cycle. This means that their hair keeps growing and doesn’t shed as often as it does in short-haired German shepherds.
Why Is My German Shepherd Shedding So Much?
As mentioned before, most German shepherds have a double coat of fur. This type of coat helps to protect the dog from both hot and cold weather. However, it also means that German Shepherds shed more than dogs with a single coat of fur.
They shed all year round, but they shed the most in the spring and fall. In the spring, they shed their winter coats in preparation for the warmer weather. And in the fall, they shed their summer coats to grow their thicker winter coats.
This makes German shepherds one of the heaviest shedding dog breeds. If you’re struggling to keep up with the shedding, investing in a good brush can help.
How Often Should I Brush My German Shepherd?
Brushing your German Shepherd three to four times a week is a good general rule of thumb, but the exact frequency will depend on your dog’s individual coat type.
For example, if your German Shepherd has a dense, double coat, you may need to brush them more often during shedding season to help remove loose hair.
In addition to regular brushing, you should also give your German Shepherd a bath every few months (or as needed) using dog-specific shampoo and conditioner.
Tips To Reduce Excessive Shedding In German Shepherds
Next, we’ll share a few tips to help reduce excessive shedding in German shepherds.
1. Feed them a healthy diet
One of the most important things you can do for your German Shepherd (and all dogs, really) is to feed them a healthy diet.
A nutritious diet will help to keep their coat healthy and will promote healthy skin. Omega-3 fatty acids are particularly beneficial for German Shepherds, so look for foods that are rich in these nutrients
2. Use a de-shedding shampoo and conditioner
Another way to reduce shedding is to use a de-shedding shampoo and conditioner when you bathe your German shepherd.
These products are designed to help break down the bond between the hair shaft and the follicle, making it easier to remove loose hair.
In addition, de-shedding shampoos and conditioners often contain ingredients that help to moisturize the skin and coat, which can also help to reduce shedding.
3. Brush them regularly
As we mentioned before, regular brushing is essential for reducing shedding. Be sure to brush your German shepherd three to four times a week, using a brush that’s specifically designed for their coat type.
4. Get them groomed regularly
If you’re struggling to keep up with the shedding, consider getting your German shepherd groomed on a regular basis. A professional groomer can help to remove loose hair and keep your dog’s coat healthy.
Conclusion
No matter what type of coat your German Shepherd has, we have the perfect brush for you. Our list includes brushes that are gentle enough for sensitive skin, as well as brushes that can penetrate deep into the coat to remove loose hair.
We’ve also included self-cleaning brushes and double-sided brushes to make your grooming experience easier than ever. So what are you waiting for? Get started on finding the perfect brush for your pup today!
Why Trust Us?
We’ve been researching, testing, and writing about German Shepherds for years. We know the ins and outs of this breed and what products work best for them.
When it comes to brushes, we only recommend products that we believe are the best for German Shepherds. We’ve tested dozens of brushes ourselves and consulted with experts to find the best of the best.
You can be confident that any brush on this list is a great choice for your German Shepherd.
Hi my name is Gloria, I have a German Shepard nome Zoe. She has mites and dandruff, I took her to the vet, which did not do much for Zoe. So I am tray to cure her with natural home remedies. I am treating her for two months and she is better but not cure, I am very frustrated and sorry for Zoe. Do you know anything I could use on her? Please
Hi Gloria, thank you for reaching out. One of my friends actually had the same case with her German shepherd one year ago. It seems that Zoe has chronic mites case due to a suppressed or weak immune system. Unfortunately, cases like this will need long-term treatment. It may take a year or so before Zoe can recover completely.
Back then, the first thing that we did was move my friend’s dog to another place. We tried to make sure whether the infection was caused by external factors or not, but the condition was still the same. So we did everything that we could to boost her immune system like feeding her raw diet and supplying her with vitamins and minerals. It’s slow recovery but finally, after months my friend’s dog was completely cured. Hope this helps.