The FURminator Grooming Tool (or as I like to call it, 'brush!') has been around for about 20 years. During that time, it's been used by tens of thousands of pet owners who seem to give it very high marks for efficiency and ease-of-use. I've had one of the originals and used it on TWO Golden Retrievers to great benefit.
Invented by professional groomer Angie Porter and her husband David, the FURminator now comes in a wide variety of sizes, for virtually all breeds of dogs, and for cats and rabbits too. There's even a puppy and kitten version to get your pet off to a good start.
How does the FURminator work?
It looks a lot like a brush, with a stainless-steel blade-like surface that you run over the animal's coat. FURminator works by comfortably grabbing and removing the loose undercoat. It does not cut the animal's fur or damage guard hairs. FURminator ads claim that this tool can remove up to 90% of hair that's already shed.
It's safe and effective to use on both short-haired and long-haired dogs -- but be sure to choose the correct model for your pet.
Benefits of grooming your dog
Grooming is not only good for your dog's overall well-being, it's a great way for you to bond, and for you to check up on his health by examining him during your grooming session. You can spot sores, bruises or insect bites and even find parasites like fleas and ticks before they're out of control.
Good brushing and grooming will:
remove hairs that have already shed
help in the coat's renewal process
stimulate the skin and increase blood circulation at the base of each hair
clean the skin of dandruff
eliminate dry skin flakes
leave skin healthier and the topcoat shiny
Alternatives to the FURminator
Typically, professional dog groomers will clear out shed hair with a regular metal comb or brush or one of these specialized tools, alone or in combination:
undercoat rake - a brush like tool with very few, long teeth
slicker brush - a brush with many fine wire teeth
shedding blade - a loop of metal with 'teeth' on the surface grabs loose hair
Some groomers who prepare show dogs for the ring feel that the FURminator does damage guard hairs; while others are comfortable using it. It really depends on how you use it, and on the type and condition of your dog's coat.
On the plus side, it's used by major grooming salons nationally such as PetSmart, who offer a special FURminator grooming package to really take out shed hair.
Why not just shave my dog?
It might seem like a good fix for your dog's shedding, but it's not a good idea. Shaving your dog will:
change the texture of the coat
interrupt the natural shedding cycle
impair your dog's ability to regulate body temperature
leave him vulnerable to sunburn and insect bites
And why have a dog with a beautiful long coat if you're just going to shave it off?
Before you start grooming
Naturally don't use this or any other deshedding tool on your dog if he has sores, bruises or any kind of skin condition.
The FURminator is NOT meant for combing through tangles and mats.
Keep your grooming sessions short and fun, especially at first. Use long, gentle strokes with the FURminator, angling it toward the coat. Don't brush too deep or too much in one place or use too much downward pressure.
Other FURminator products
The company also makes shampoos, conditions and a waterless shampoo and conditioner that you spritz on. All these products help loosen the shed hair to make the FURminator even more effective.
In summary, the FURminator is a good tool for people who are committed to grooming their own pets at home, and on a regular basis. It's well made, safe and fully guaranteed. If you don't like it or anything breaks, just return it for your money back.
