Best Brushes for Alaskan Malamutes

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

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🏆 Quick answer

Our top pick is FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool — best for thick double coats and high shedding volume. Why it wins: reduces shedding by up to 90%.

Alaskan Malamutes are notorious for their thick double coats, which shed heavily and require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. During shedding season, they can lose up to 70% of their coat, making it essential to invest in the right brush to manage their fur. With their strong prey drive and heat sensitivity, Malamutes need a brush that can handle their dense undercoat without causing discomfort or irritation. The breed's coat type and shedding volume make it crucial to choose a brush specifically designed for thick double coats. Undercoat rakes and deshedding tools are ideal for removing loose hair and preventing matting, while slicker brushes can help detangle and smooth out the topcoat. By selecting the right brush, owners can reduce shedding, prevent skin irritation, and keep their Malamute's coat healthy and shiny. Regular grooming also helps to distribute skin oils, reduce shedding, and prevent hair from getting everywhere. With the right brush, owners can make grooming a positive experience for their Malamute, strengthening their bond and keeping their dog's coat in top condition.

What to look for

Coat Type

Alaskan Malamutes have a thick double coat that sheds heavily, so a brush that can handle dense undercoats is essential. Look for undercoat rakes or deshedding tools with stainless steel edges or rotating pins that can penetrate deep without causing irritation.

Shedding Volume

Malamutes shed heavily, especially during shedding season, so a brush that can remove loose hair efficiently is crucial. Consider a brush with a FURejector button or a self-cleaning mechanism to make grooming easier and less messy.

Matting and Tangling

The breed's thick coat is prone to matting and tangling, so a brush that can detangle and smooth out the topcoat is necessary. Slicker brushes with fine bent wire bristles or flexible pins can help prevent matting and reduce shedding.

Size and Ergonomics

Alaskan Malamutes are large dogs, so a brush with an ergonomic handle and a comfortable grip is essential for owners to manage their dog's coat without straining their hands or wrists.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool	thick double coats and high shedding volume
2	Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush	detangling and smoothing the topcoat
3	JW Pet GripSoft Double Row Undercoat Rake	removing loose hair and preventing matting
4	Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush	detangling and smoothing the topcoat
5	Master Grooming Tools Steel Grooming Rake	removing loose hair and preventing matting

FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool

Best for thick double coats and high shedding volume

The FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool is specifically designed for breeds like the Alaskan Malamute, with a stainless steel deshedding edge that reaches through the topcoat to remove loose hair and prevent matting. The ergonomic handle and FURejector button make grooming easier and less messy.

✓ reduces shedding by up to 90%
✓ prevents matting and tangling
✓ comfortable grip and ergonomic handle

✕ can be expensive
✕ may require some effort to get used to

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Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush

Best for detangling and smoothing the topcoat

The Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush is ideal for detangling and smoothing the topcoat of Alaskan Malamutes, with oversized paddle head and long flexible rounded pins that prevent coat damage. The lifetime guarantee ensures that the brush will withstand regular use.

✓ gentle on the coat
✓ effective at detangling
✓ durable construction

✕ may not be as effective at removing undercoat
✕ can be heavy

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JW Pet GripSoft Double Row Undercoat Rake

Best for removing loose hair and preventing matting

The JW Pet GripSoft Double Row Undercoat Rake is designed for breeds like the Alaskan Malamute, with rotating teeth that prevent coat breakage and a double row of rotating pins that penetrate dense undercoats. The non-slip handle ensures comfortable grooming.

✓ effective at removing undercoat
✓ gentle on the skin
✓ easy to use

✕ may not be as effective at detangling the topcoat
✕ can be expensive

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Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush

Best for detangling and smoothing the topcoat

The Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush is a versatile tool for Alaskan Malamutes, with fine bent wire bristles that penetrate deep without scratching and a self-cleaning button that retracts bristles to release hair. The ergonomic non-slip handle ensures comfortable grooming.

✓ effective at detangling
✓ easy to clean
✓ comfortable grip

✕ may not be as effective at removing undercoat
✕ can be expensive

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Master Grooming Tools Steel Grooming Rake

Best for removing loose hair and preventing matting

The Master Grooming Tools Steel Grooming Rake is a sturdy tool for breeds like the Alaskan Malamute, with rotating stainless steel pins that penetrate thick coats without ripping. The 9-pin and 19-pin options ensure that owners can choose the right size for their dog's coat.

✓ effective at removing undercoat
✓ durable construction
✓ easy to use

✕ may not be as effective at detangling the topcoat
✕ can be expensive

Check price →

Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my Alaskan Malamute?

It's recommended to brush your Alaskan Malamute at least 2-3 times a week, with daily brushing during shedding season to prevent matting and tangling.

What type of brush is best for my Alaskan Malamute's coat?

For Alaskan Malamutes, undercoat rakes or deshedding tools with stainless steel edges or rotating pins are ideal for removing loose hair and preventing matting, while slicker brushes with fine bent wire bristles or flexible pins can help detangle and smooth the topcoat.

Can I use a brush with metal pins on my Alaskan Malamute's coat?

Yes, but it's essential to choose a brush with flexible or rotating metal pins to prevent coat breakage and skin irritation. Always introduce the brush gradually and gently to ensure your dog becomes comfortable with the sensation.

How can I reduce shedding in my Alaskan Malamute?

Regular brushing with the right tool can help reduce shedding by removing loose hair and preventing matting. Additionally, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a comfortable living environment can help minimize shedding.

Can I brush my Alaskan Malamute during shedding season?

Yes, it's essential to brush your Alaskan Malamute regularly during shedding season to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Use a brush specifically designed for thick double coats, and consider daily brushing to keep your dog's coat under control.

For Alaskan Malamute owners, choosing the right brush is crucial to manage their dog's thick double coat and high shedding volume. By selecting a brush that's designed for their specific coat type, owners can reduce shedding, prevent matting, and keep their dog's coat healthy and shiny. The FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool is an excellent choice for owners who want to reduce shedding and prevent matting, while the Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush is ideal for detangling and smoothing the topcoat.

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