The short answer: to use an undercoat rake for double coated dogs, start on a dry, tangle-free coat, part the fur into small sections and draw the rake gently in the direction the hair grows, with light pressure, until it brings up only a little loose undercoat. Stop at mats, pink skin or any sign of discomfort, and finish with a slicker brush.
Double-coated dogs have a protective outer coat and a softer undercoat. During heavier shedding periods, loose undercoat can collect close to the skin even when the top of the coat looks tidy.
The goal is not to remove as much fur as possible in one session. The goal is to loosen shed coat without scraping skin, breaking healthy hair or pulling through mats.
Check the skin first
Use your hands to feel for tight areas, burrs, damp spots or skin irritation. Part the coat in several places so you can see the skin.
Do not use a deshedding tool over wounds, inflamed skin or an area your dog guards. Tight mats close to the skin should go to a professional groomer.
Work on a dry coat
Unless a tool specifically says otherwise, start with a dry, clean coat. Use short sessions in a well-lit place.
A fine mist can help with light surface grooming between baths. The Steam Brush Pro is made to mist and collect loose fur, but it does not replace a coat-specific undercoat tool for dense shedding.
Brush in sections
Start in an easy area such as the shoulder. Separate a small section of coat and brush in the direction it grows. Move gradually rather than repeatedly scraping the same spot.
Use light pressure. If the tool catches, stop and inspect the section instead of pulling harder.
Choosing an undercoat rake for double coated dogs
The Undercoat Pro combines surfaces for dematting, deshedding and detangling. Choose the surface that matches the task. Rounded teeth and a wide head do not remove the need for a gentle hand.
For Labradors, Huskies and other double coats that need several tools, a Labrador grooming kit like our Complete 7-in-1 Kit includes a deshedding brush, slicker and comb. Use one tool at a time and check the skin between passes.
High-friction areas need extra care
Loose coat and tangles often collect behind the ears, under the collar, in the armpits, around the back legs and near the tail. These areas can be sensitive. Use smaller sections and shorter strokes.
Know when the session is over
Stop when:
- The brush begins to drag
- The skin looks pink or irritated
- Your dog repeatedly moves away, turns toward the tool or shows discomfort
- You find a tight mat or tender area
- Your own hand is tired enough that your pressure is no longer consistent
Remove collected fur from the tool and wash or wipe it according to its care instructions. Store it dry.
Regular, short brushing sessions are usually more useful than an occasional marathon. Your dog’s coat and comfort set the pace.
Undercoat rake FAQ
How do you use an undercoat rake?
Brush out tangles first, then work on a dry coat one small section at a time. Draw the rake gently in the direction the hair grows with light pressure, stop when it brings up only a little loose undercoat, and finish with a slicker brush. Leave tight mats to a groomer.
Is an undercoat rake good for double coated dogs?
Yes. An undercoat rake is made to reach the soft undercoat that a regular brush skims over, which is why it is the usual first tool for double-coated breeds in shedding season. Use light pressure and leave tight mats to a groomer.
How often should I use an undercoat rake?
Short sessions two or three times a week during heavy shedding, and about once a week the rest of the year, suit most double-coated dogs. Brush less often if the skin looks pink or irritated.
Should I rake a wet coat?
Start on a dry coat unless the tool’s instructions say otherwise. Wet hair stretches and tangles more easily.
For a full shedding-season routine, see how to deshed a dog at home.
For the full sequence, see our simple at-home dog grooming routine.