The Deshedding Rake Tool is an undercoat rake for dogs with a curved stainless steel blade, designed to lift loose undercoat during regular grooming, and a comfortable handle that makes it easy to work through thick fur. It is made for owners of double-coated and heavy-shedding dogs who want to tackle moulting at home, and comes in two sizes to suit smaller and larger dogs.
If you are looking for an undercoat rake for dogs in the UK, this guide explains how a rake differs from a brush, which size to choose, and how to use it safely and effectively.
What is an undercoat rake and why use one?
Many dogs have two layers of coat: a longer, coarser topcoat and a soft, dense undercoat beneath it. The undercoat is what comes out in clumps when your dog "blows" their coat, usually around spring and autumn. Ordinary brushes can skim over the top without reaching it, which is why loose undercoat can build up and leave the coat looking dull and feeling heavy.
A deshedding rake is designed to reach down into that layer. The curved stainless steel blade lifts loose undercoat as you draw the tool through the fur, so more of the shed hair ends up in the rake rather than on your floors, car seats and clothes.
Key features of the Deshedding Rake Tool
- Curved stainless steel blade. Shaped to follow the contours of your dog's body and lift loose undercoat during grooming.
- Comfortable handle. Made from ABS and TPR, giving a comfortable grip that makes it easy to work through the coat.
- Two sizes. Small and Medium, so you can match the blade width to your dog.
- Lightweight and easy to carry. Easy to keep in a grooming kit or take on holiday.
Choosing the right size deshedding tool for your dog
Picking the right size makes a big difference to comfort and control.
Small – 76mm blade
The Small rake measures 168 x 93 x 52mm with a 76mm blade. A narrower blade is easier to manoeuvre around tighter areas and is generally a better match for smaller dogs, or for working around the legs, chest and behind the ears on bigger dogs.
Medium – 100mm blade
The Medium rake measures 170 x 117 x 53mm with a 100mm blade. The wider blade covers more coat with each stroke, which can save time on larger, thick-coated breeds with broad backs and sides.
If you have a large double-coated dog and plenty of patience, the Medium is often the more efficient choice. If your dog is small, or you prefer more precise control, start with the Small.
Which dogs benefit from a dog undercoat rake?
Rakes are most useful for dogs with a genuine undercoat. That typically includes breeds such as:
- Labradors and Golden Retrievers
- German Shepherds and Belgian Shepherds
- Huskies, Malamutes and other spitz types
- Border Collies and Shetland Sheepdogs
- Corgis, Akitas and many crossbreeds with double coats
For single-coated or very fine-haired dogs, a rake may not be necessary – a softer brush is usually enough. If you are not sure whether your dog has an undercoat, ask your groomer. They can also show you the best direction and pressure for your dog's coat.
How to use a deshedding rake safely
A rake is effective, so a light touch is key. Follow these general steps:
- Start with a dry, tangle-free coat. Brush out any obvious tangles first. A rake is not a dematting tool, and dragging it through mats can be uncomfortable.
- Work in the direction of hair growth. Use short, gentle strokes, following the way the coat lies.
- Keep the pressure light. Let the blade do the work. You should not need to press into the skin.
- Go section by section. Start at the neck and work along the back, sides and hindquarters. Use the rake carefully on the legs and avoid sensitive areas such as the face, belly, armpits and genitals.
- Clear the blade often. Remove the collected undercoat regularly so the rake keeps working smoothly.
- Stop if your dog is uncomfortable. Take breaks, offer treats and keep sessions short to begin with.
Don't rake the same spot repeatedly, as over-grooming can irritate the skin. If you see redness, soreness or broken skin, stop and seek advice from your vet.
Finishing the groom
After raking, a gentler brush helps smooth the topcoat and catch any remaining loose hairs. Our Double-Sided Deshedding Massage Brush is a good finishing tool. For coats prone to knots, keep a Stainless Steel Dematting Brush to hand as well.
Care tips for your deshedding rake
- Remove hair from the blade after each session.
- Wipe the blade clean and make sure it is completely dry before storing.
- Store it somewhere safe and dry, out of reach of children and pets.
- Check the blade periodically for damage before using it on your dog.
Deshedding Rake Tool: specifications
- Curved stainless steel blade designed to lift loose undercoat
- ABS and TPR handle for a comfortable grip
- Small: 168 x 93 x 52mm, 76mm blade – £31.99
- Medium: 170 x 117 x 53mm, 100mm blade – £36.99
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Frequently asked questions
What size undercoat rake should I buy?
The Small (76mm blade) suits smaller dogs and tighter areas; the Medium (100mm blade) covers more coat per stroke on larger, thick-coated dogs.
Can I use the rake on a matted coat?
It is designed to lift loose undercoat, not to break up mats. Detangle first with a suitable dematting tool or comb, and ask a groomer to deal with severe matting.
How often should I use a deshedding rake?
It depends on your dog's coat and how heavily they are shedding. Many owners use a rake more often during seasonal moults and less in between. Your groomer can advise on a routine that suits your dog.
Is a deshedding rake suitable for short-haired dogs?
Rakes are most useful for dogs with an undercoat. Single-coated or very short-haired dogs may be better suited to a softer brush.
Get on top of moulting season
A good undercoat rake for dogs can make seasonal shedding far more manageable at home. Shop the Deshedding Rake Tool in Small or Medium at The Canine Co.