Best Brushes for Labrador Retrievers

We independently research and pick every product. When you buy through our links we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. How this works.

Labrador Retrievers are notorious for their high shedding volume, with some dogs losing as much as 2-3 pounds of hair per year. Their short double coat, consisting of a soft undercoat and a coarser outer coat, requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. During shedding season, Labradors can benefit from daily brushing to remove loose hair and prevent it from ending up on furniture and clothing. The breed's coat type and shedding volume make it essential to choose a brush that is designed to handle thick undercoats and high shedding volumes. A brush with flexible pins or a deshedding tool with a stainless steel edge can help to remove loose hair and prevent matting, while also being gentle on the dog's skin. Regular brushing can also help to distribute skin oils and promote healthy skin and coat. For Labrador Retrievers, a brush that is easy to use and effective at removing loose hair is a must-have for any dog owner.

What to look for

Coat Type

Labrador Retrievers have a short double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. A brush with flexible pins or a deshedding tool with a stainless steel edge can help to remove loose hair and prevent matting, while also being gentle on the dog's skin. The brush should be designed to handle thick undercoats and high shedding volumes.

Shedding Volume

Labrador Retrievers are high shedders, and their brushing tool should be able to handle large amounts of loose hair. A deshedding tool or a brush with a self-cleaning feature can make it easier to remove loose hair and prevent it from ending up on furniture and clothing.

Size

Labrador Retrievers are a large breed, and their brushing tool should be sized accordingly. A large or extra-large brush with a comfortable handle can make it easier to brush the dog's entire coat, while also reducing fatigue for the owner.

Ease of Use

The brushing tool should be easy to use and comfortable to hold, even for extended periods of time. A brush with an ergonomic handle or a deshedding tool with a non-slip grip can make it easier to brush the dog's coat, while also reducing the risk of injury to the owner.

Matting and Tangling

Labrador Retrievers can be prone to matting and tangling, especially around the ears and tail. A brush with flexible pins or a deshedding tool with a stainless steel edge can help to prevent matting and tangling, while also being gentle on the dog's skin.

Our top picks

FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool

Best for high shedding volume

The FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool is a top pick for Labrador Retrievers due to its ability to handle thick undercoats and high shedding volumes. The stainless steel deshedding edge reaches through the topcoat to remove loose hair, while the FURejector button releases hair, making it easy to clean. The ergonomic handle makes it comfortable to hold and use, even for extended periods of time.

✓ effective at removing loose hair
✓ easy to use
✓ ergonomic handle

✕ can be expensive

Check price →

Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush

Best for matting and tangling

The Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush is a great option for Labrador Retrievers that are prone to matting and tangling. The fine bent wire bristles penetrate deep without scratching, while the self-cleaning button retracts bristles to release hair, making it easy to clean. The ergonomic non-slip handle makes it comfortable to hold and use.

✓ effective at preventing matting and tangling
✓ easy to clean
✓ ergonomic handle

✕ may not be as effective at removing loose hair as a deshedding tool

Check price →

Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush

Best for large breed dogs

The Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush is a great option for Labrador Retrievers due to its oversized paddle head and long flexible rounded pins. The brush is designed to handle large breed dogs with thick coats, and the lifetime guarantee provides peace of mind for owners.

✓ effective at handling large breed dogs
✓ long flexible rounded pins prevent coat damage
✓ lifetime guarantee

✕ may be too large for some owners to handle comfortably

Check price →

JW Pet GripSoft Double Row Undercoat Rake

Best for thick undercoats

The JW Pet GripSoft Double Row Undercoat Rake is a great option for Labrador Retrievers with thick undercoats. The double row of rotating pins penetrates dense undercoat without ripping, while the non-slip handle makes it comfortable to hold and use.

✓ effective at handling thick undercoats
✓ rotating pins prevent coat breakage
✓ non-slip handle

✕ may not be as effective at removing loose hair as a deshedding tool

Check price →

KONG ZoomGroom Dog Grooming Brush

Best for short coats

The KONG ZoomGroom Dog Grooming Brush is a great option for Labrador Retrievers with short coats. The flexible rubber fingers massage while grooming, removing loose hair and distributing skin oils. The brush can be used wet or dry, making it a great option for bath time or everyday grooming.

✓ effective at handling short coats
✓ flexible rubber fingers massage while grooming
✓ can be used wet or dry

✕ may not be as effective at handling thick undercoats or high shedding volumes

Check price →

Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my Labrador Retriever?

It's recommended to brush your Labrador Retriever at least 2-3 times per week, with daily brushing during shedding season. This will help to remove loose hair and prevent matting and tangling.

What type of brush is best for a Labrador Retriever?

A brush with flexible pins or a deshedding tool with a stainless steel edge is best for a Labrador Retriever. These types of brushes are designed to handle thick undercoats and high shedding volumes, while also being gentle on the dog's skin.

Can I use a human brush on my Labrador Retriever?

No, it's not recommended to use a human brush on your Labrador Retriever. Human brushes are designed for human hair, which is much finer than dog hair. Using a human brush on your Labrador Retriever can cause breakage and matting, and may not be effective at removing loose hair.

How do I prevent matting and tangling in my Labrador Retriever's coat?

To prevent matting and tangling in your Labrador Retriever's coat, it's essential to brush regularly, especially around the ears and tail. A brush with flexible pins or a deshedding tool with a stainless steel edge can help to prevent matting and tangling, while also being gentle on the dog's skin.

Can I brush my Labrador Retriever too much?

Yes, it is possible to brush your Labrador Retriever too much. Over-brushing can cause irritation and discomfort, especially if the brush is not designed for the dog's coat type. It's essential to brush regularly, but not excessively, and to use a brush that is designed for the dog's coat type and shedding volume.

For Labrador Retriever owners, a good brush is essential for managing their dog's coat and preventing matting and tangling. By choosing a brush that is designed for the breed's coat type and shedding volume, owners can help to keep their dog's coat healthy and looking its best. The FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool is a top pick for Labrador Retrievers due to its ability to handle thick undercoats and high shedding volumes, making it a great option for owners who want to keep their dog's coat looking its best.

More for your Labrador Retriever

Other breed-matched picks worth a look.

Best Brushes for other breeds

The same category, matched to a different breed.