The De-Shedding Undercoat Rake is a dog undercoat rake for shedding that reduces loose hair at the source. Its precision-spaced stainless teeth glide through the undercoat without pulling or discomfort, lifting out loose fur before it ends up on your sofa, carpets and clothes. It is for UK owners of dogs with thick or double coats who are tired of hoovering up dog hair every day.
Shedding is a normal part of life with many dogs, and it often seems to ramp up in spring and autumn as coats adjust to the changing seasons. You cannot stop a dog from shedding, but you can manage it. Regular brushing with the right tool removes loose undercoat before it falls out around the house. This guide explains how an undercoat rake works, which dogs benefit most and how to use one properly.
What is an undercoat rake?
Many dogs have two layers of coat: a longer outer coat (sometimes called guard hairs) and a softer, denser undercoat beneath it. The undercoat is the part that tends to shed in large amounts. Ordinary brushes often glide over the top of the coat without reaching it.
An undercoat rake has teeth designed to reach down through the outer coat into the undercoat, catching the loose fur and drawing it out. Ours uses precision-spaced stainless teeth that glide through the undercoat without pulling or causing discomfort when used correctly.
Key features of the De-Shedding Undercoat Rake
- Reduces shedding at the source – removes loose undercoat before it lands around your home.
- Precision-spaced stainless teeth – designed to reach into the undercoat.
- Glides without pulling – built to work through the coat without discomfort.
- Stainless construction – easy to keep clean.
- Price – £32, single version.
Which dogs need a de-shedding tool?
Double-coated dogs
Dogs with a thick undercoat are the main candidates. Many popular UK breeds and crosses – including many working, herding, spitz and retriever types – have double coats. If your dog leaves tufts of soft, fluffy fur around the house, they almost certainly have an undercoat.
Heavy seasonal shedders
Some dogs shed lightly all year and then “blow” their coat once or twice a year. During these periods, a rake can remove large amounts of loose fur and make the process much more manageable.
Households wanting less dog hair
Regular de-shedding will not make any dog hair-free, but many owners find it noticeably reduces the amount of hair on floors, furniture and clothes.
Which dogs may not need one?
Dogs with single coats or very short, fine coats often do not have much undercoat to remove. For them, a bristle brush or grooming mitt may be all they need. If in doubt, ask your groomer what type of coat your dog has.
How to use an undercoat rake: step-by-step
- Start with a dry coat. Rakes work best on a clean, dry coat.
- Work in sections. Part the coat with your hand and work on one area at a time – for example, the neck, then the shoulders, then the back.
- Rake in the direction of hair growth. Use smooth, gentle strokes following the natural lie of the coat.
- Let the teeth do the work. There is no need to press hard. Gentle, steady strokes lift loose undercoat without irritating the skin.
- Clear the rake regularly. Remove the collected fur from the teeth as you go so the rake keeps working efficiently.
- Take extra care on sensitive areas. Be gentle around the belly, legs, armpits and tail, and avoid the face.
- Know when to stop. When very little fur is coming out of an area, move on. Over-brushing one spot can irritate the skin.
- Finish with a smoothing brush. A natural bristle brush, such as our Boar Bristle Grooming Brush, smooths the outer coat and adds shine after raking.
How often should you de-shed your dog?
For many double-coated dogs, a session once or twice a week keeps shedding under control for most of the year. During heavy seasonal shedding, you may want to brush more often, in short sessions. Watch your dog's skin: if it looks red or irritated, give it a rest and brush more gently next time. If irritation persists, speak to your vet.
De-shedding and bath time
Many groomers find that a bath followed by a thorough dry helps loosen undercoat during heavy shedding. Brushing out first, bathing with a gentle shampoo such as our Silk Coat Conditioning Shampoo, then drying fully and raking again once dry is a common approach during a coat blow. Always make sure the coat is completely dry before raking.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Pressing too hard. More pressure does not mean more fur, and can make the experience uncomfortable.
- Raking wet coats. Damp fur clumps and is harder to work through.
- Shaving double coats to reduce shedding. Many groomers advise against shaving double-coated dogs, as the coat plays a role in protecting them. Regular de-shedding is usually the better approach – ask your groomer for advice.
- Trying to fix matting with a rake. Heavy mats need careful attention and sometimes professional help.
Caring for your undercoat rake
- Remove all fur from the teeth after each session.
- Wash occasionally with warm, soapy water and dry thoroughly.
- Store in a dry place to keep it in good condition.
Frequently asked questions
Does an undercoat rake stop a dog from shedding?
No tool stops shedding, which is natural. A rake removes loose undercoat before it falls out around your home, which helps reduce the amount of hair you find on floors and furniture.
Will the rake hurt my dog?
Our rake's precision-spaced stainless teeth are designed to glide through the undercoat without pulling or discomfort. Use gentle pressure and take care on sensitive areas.
Can I use an undercoat rake on a short-haired dog?
If your short-haired dog has a dense undercoat, a rake can help. Dogs with single, fine coats may be better suited to a bristle brush.
How long does a de-shedding session take?
It varies with coat size and how much your dog is shedding. Short, regular sessions are usually better than one long session.
Is it better to de-shed before or after a bath?
Many owners brush before bathing and again once the coat is fully dry, especially during heavy shedding.
Less fur on the floor, more time on walks
If your dog's undercoat is taking over your home, a dedicated rake is one of the most useful grooming tools you can own. Shop the De-Shedding Undercoat Rake at The Canine Co.