Best Brushes for Old English Sheepdogs

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

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🏆 Quick answer

Our top pick is FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool — best for reducing shedding and preventing matting. Why it wins: reduces shedding by up to 90%.

The Old English Sheepdog's distinctive shaggy coat is a hallmark of the breed, but it also presents a unique grooming challenge. With their thick, double coats shedding heavily, Old English Sheepdogs require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. In fact, Old English Sheepdogs shed so much that they can fill a trash bag with loose hair every week. This high volume of shedding, combined with the coat's tendency to mat, means that Old English Sheepdogs need a brush that can penetrate deep into their undercoat without causing breakage or discomfort. The right brush can make all the difference in keeping their coat healthy and looking its best. For Old English Sheepdog owners, finding a brush that can keep up with their dog's shedding and matting is essential. The wrong brush can lead to painful matting, skin irritation, and even infections, making regular grooming a must.

What to look for

Coat Type

Old English Sheepdogs have a thick, double coat that sheds heavily, requiring a brush that can penetrate deep into their undercoat. A brush with sturdy teeth or pins is essential for working through their dense coat. The brush should also be designed to reduce shedding and prevent matting, making it easier to keep their coat looking its best.

Brush Size

Given the Old English Sheepdog's large size, a brush with a large or extra-large head is necessary to cover more surface area and make grooming more efficient. A larger brush head also helps to reduce grooming time, which can be a significant advantage for owners of this breed.

Ergonomics

Grooming an Old English Sheepdog can be a time-consuming process, so it's essential to choose a brush with an ergonomic handle that fits comfortably in the hand. This will help reduce fatigue and make grooming a more enjoyable experience for both the dog and the owner.

Ease of Cleaning

With the amount of hair that Old English Sheepdogs shed, it's crucial to choose a brush that is easy to clean and maintain. A brush with a self-cleaning feature or one that is designed for easy hair removal can save owners a significant amount of time and hassle.

Gentleness

Old English Sheepdogs have sensitive skin, so it's vital to choose a brush that is gentle on their skin and won't cause irritation or discomfort. A brush with flexible pins or soft bristles is ideal for this breed, as it will help to prevent skin irritation and make grooming a more pleasant experience.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool	reducing shedding and preventing matting
2	Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush	detangling and smoothing the coat
3	Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush	fast and efficient grooming
4	JW Pet GripSoft Double Row Undercoat Rake	penetrating dense undercoats
5	Master Grooming Tools Steel Grooming Rake	thick, double coats

FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool

Best for reducing shedding and preventing matting

The FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool is specifically designed for dogs with thick, double coats like the Old English Sheepdog. Its stainless steel deshedding edge reaches through the topcoat to remove loose hair and reduce shedding, making it an ideal choice for this breed. The FURejector button also makes it easy to release hair, reducing the amount of time spent grooming.

✓ reduces shedding by up to 90%
✓ easy to use and clean
✓ gentle on skin

✕ can be expensive
✕ may not be suitable for dogs with sensitive skin

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Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush

Best for detangling and smoothing the coat

The Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush is a great choice for Old English Sheepdogs, as it features fine bent wire bristles that penetrate deep into their coat without scratching. The self-cleaning button also retracts the bristles to release hair, making it easy to clean and maintain.

✓ effective at detangling and smoothing the coat
✓ easy to clean and maintain
✓ gentle on skin

✕ may not be suitable for dogs with very sensitive skin
✕ can be bulky to store

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Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush

Best for fast and efficient grooming

The Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush is designed for large breeds like the Old English Sheepdog, featuring an oversized paddle head for fast line brushing. The long, flexible rounded pins prevent coat damage and make grooming a more enjoyable experience for both the dog and the owner.

✓ fast and efficient grooming
✓ gentle on skin
✓ durable construction

✕ may be expensive
✕ can be heavy to hold for extended periods

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JW Pet GripSoft Double Row Undercoat Rake

Best for penetrating dense undercoats

The JW Pet GripSoft Double Row Undercoat Rake is a great choice for Old English Sheepdogs, featuring rotating teeth that prevent coat breakage and penetrate dense undercoats. The non-slip handle also provides comfort and control during grooming.

✓ effective at penetrating dense undercoats
✓ gentle on skin
✓ easy to use

✕ may not be suitable for dogs with very sensitive skin
✕ can be time-consuming to use

Check price →

Master Grooming Tools Steel Grooming Rake

Best for thick, double coats

The Master Grooming Tools Steel Grooming Rake is a sturdy and effective tool for grooming Old English Sheepdogs, featuring rotating stainless steel pins that penetrate thick coats without ripping. The rake is also designed to reduce matting and tangling, making it an ideal choice for this breed.

✓ effective at penetrating thick coats
✓ reduces matting and tangling
✓ durable construction

✕ may be expensive
✕ can be heavy to hold for extended periods

Check price →

Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my Old English Sheepdog?

Old English Sheepdogs require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. It's recommended to brush your Old English Sheepdog at least 2-3 times a week, with daily brushing during shedding season.

What type of brush is best for my Old English Sheepdog's coat?

A brush with sturdy teeth or pins is essential for working through the Old English Sheepdog's dense coat. A slicker brush or an undercoat rake is ideal for this breed, as they help to reduce shedding and prevent matting.

Can I use a brush with hard bristles on my Old English Sheepdog?

No, it's not recommended to use a brush with hard bristles on an Old English Sheepdog, as it can cause skin irritation and discomfort. Instead, choose a brush with flexible pins or soft bristles that are gentle on their skin.

How do I prevent matting in my Old English Sheepdog's coat?

To prevent matting in your Old English Sheepdog's coat, it's essential to brush them regularly, especially during shedding season. Use a brush that is designed for their coat type, and work through their coat slowly and gently to avoid causing breakage or tangling.

Can I use a detangling spray on my Old English Sheepdog?

Yes, a detangling spray can be helpful in working through mats and tangles in your Old English Sheepdog's coat. However, be sure to choose a spray that is specifically designed for dogs and follow the instructions carefully to avoid causing skin irritation or discomfort.

For Old English Sheepdog owners, choosing the right brush is crucial for maintaining their dog's thick, double coat. By considering factors such as coat type, brush size, and ergonomics, owners can select a brush that meets their dog's specific needs. The FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool is a top pick for this breed, as it reduces shedding and prevents matting, making it an essential tool for any Old English Sheepdog owner.

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