Best Dog Brush for Australian Shepherds (2026)
Australian Shepherds are double-coated herding dogs that shed year-round, with seasonal "coat blows" that can be intense. Regular brushing prevents matting, reduces shedding around your home, and keeps their skin healthy—making the right brush essential for this active breed.
A good brush for Australian Shepherds must penetrate both the dense undercoat and longer guard hairs without causing irritation. Look for tools with flexible designs and stainless steel construction that handle the breed's medium-to-heavy shedding without damaging their coat structure.
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Our Top Pick
Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush
Used by professional groomers and show handlers for long, silky, or curly coats — the extra-long pins detangle mats without damaging the coat texture.
Chris Christensen
Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush
Best professional slicker for show coatsIdeal for Australian Shepherds with show-quality coats or thick double coats, this professional-grade slicker prevents matting while maintaining the breed's natural texture and protecting sensitive skin.
- Professional groomer standard for long or curly coats
- Cushioned pad prevents brush burn
- 12% longer pins than standard slickers
FURminator
FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool for Large Dogs, Long Hair
Best deShedding tool for long double coatsEssential for Australian Shepherds' seasonal coat blows, this undercoat tool removes up to 90% of loose hair from their dense double coat, dramatically reducing year-round shedding.
- Removes up to 90% of loose undercoat hair
- Stainless steel edge reaches through topcoat
- FURejector button releases hair with one click
Wahl
Wahl Professional Animal Stainless Steel Comb
Best finishing comb for long coatsPerfect finishing tool for Australian Shepherds after slicker brushing, the dual-spacing teeth detangle their long outer coat and catch any remaining mats or snarls.
- Stainless steel — lasts decades
- Dual-spacing teeth (wide + narrow)
- Essential final step after brushing for mats
Hertzko
Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush
Best everyday slicker for medium/long coatsThis affordable daily brush efficiently handles Australian Shepherds' medium-to-long coat maintenance between deshedding sessions without the premium price tag of professional options.
- One-click self-cleaning button ejects trapped hair
- Fine bent wires penetrate mat-prone coats
- Affordable — under $15 on most platforms
Safari
Safari by Coastal Wire Pin Brush for Dogs
Best wire pin brush for wire/rough coatsGentle pin brush suitable for routine maintenance on Australian Shepherds' coats, especially effective for maintaining the breed's feathering on legs and hindquarters.
- Polished round pin tips prevent skin irritation
- Flexible cushion base
- Affordable daily-use option
How to Choose the Right Brush for Australian Shepherds
Australian Shepherds have a double coat with a longer outer layer and dense undercoat, requiring brushes that reach both layers effectively. Slicker brushes and undercoat deshedding tools work best for this breed; avoid short-hair designs that won't penetrate deep enough. A brush with fine, closely-spaced wires or teeth will catch tangles before they become mats—critical for a breed prone to matting behind the ears and hindquarters.
Shedding intensity matters greatly. Australian Shepherds shed consistently and blow their coats seasonally. A deshedding tool like the FURminator is invaluable during these periods, while everyday brushes handle maintenance between sessions. Match tool intensity to shedding level; lighter options work for routine grooming, but you'll need heavy-duty equipment during coat blows.
Ergonomics and ease of use shouldn't be overlooked. Australian Shepherds are active and energetic—grooming sessions should be efficient. Look for self-cleaning features, cushioned handles, and lightweight designs that reduce hand fatigue. Professional-grade tools last longer and handle the breed's thick coat without wearing out quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I brush my Australian Shepherd?
Brush 3-4 times weekly during normal shedding periods to maintain their coat and prevent matting. During seasonal coat blows (typically spring and fall), daily brushing is necessary. Australian Shepherds' double coats mat quickly without regular maintenance, particularly behind ears, around the hindquarters, and in feathering areas.
Why does my Australian Shepherd shed so much?
Australian Shepherds are double-coated herding dogs bred for outdoor work, so shedding is natural and constant. They "blow their coat" seasonally when undercoat sheds heavily—sometimes lasting weeks. Regular brushing removes loose hair before it falls everywhere and helps prevent skin issues from trapped moisture in the dense undercoat.
Can I use the same brush for my Australian Shepherd year-round?
No—adjust your tools seasonally. Use a lightweight slicker or pin brush for routine maintenance, but switch to a powerful undercoat deshedding tool during coat blows. Using a regular brush during heavy shedding won't remove enough loose hair, leading to matting and potential skin problems from trapped moisture.
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