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If your dog sheds enough to coat the sofa, a deshedding tool can make a huge difference. These tools use a fine-toothed stainless steel edge to reach through the topcoat and pull out loose undercoat before it falls around your home. The FURminator is the famous name, while Hertzko offers a popular budget alternative. In this FURminator vs Hertzko comparison, we look at how they perform, how comfortable they are, sizing, cleaning and value, and which suits your dog’s coat.
Our Quick Picks
- Best BudgetHertzko Deshedding ToolCheck Price on Amazon
- Best for Double CoatsFURminator Undercoat deShedding ToolCheck Price on Amazon
Short on time? These are our top choices. Full reviews and comparisons are below.
FURminator vs Hertzko at a Glance
| FURminator Undercoat deShedding Tool | Hertzko Deshedding Tool | |
|---|---|---|
| Edge | Fine stainless steel deShedding edge | Stainless steel deshedding blade |
| Sizing | Sized by dog size and coat length | Largely one-size for many dogs and cats |
| Hair release | Push-button release (FURejector) | Hand-clean the blade |
| Handle | Ergonomic handle | Comfortable grip |
| Coats | Best on double and dense coats | Short and long coats, dogs and cats |
| Price level | Premium | Budget |
Performance
Both tools remove loose undercoat effectively when used properly. The FURminator is sized by dog size and coat length, so the edge width and tooth length are matched to your dog, which makes it very efficient on thick double coats like Huskies, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers. The Hertzko works on a wide range of coats, dogs and cats, and does a solid job at a much lower price; on very dense coats it may take a few more passes.
Comfort and Safety
Deshedding edges are designed to remove loose hair, not cut the coat, but they can irritate skin if you press hard or overuse them. Use light, short strokes in the direction of hair growth, limit sessions to around 10 to 20 minutes, and use them once or twice a week rather than daily. Avoid mats, hot spots, cuts and sensitive areas like the belly. Neither tool is suitable for single-coated, curly or silky breeds such as Poodles, Bichons and Yorkies, which need a slicker brush and comb instead.
Cleaning
The FURminator’s push-button release pushes collected hair off the edge in one clump, which is quick and tidy. With the Hertzko, you remove hair from the blade by hand or with a comb. Both are easy to wash with warm, soapy water; dry them fully to protect the steel.
Who Should Buy Which
| Choose the FURminator if… | Choose the Hertzko if… |
|---|---|
| Your dog has a thick double coat | You want a budget deshedding tool |
| You want a tool sized to your dog | You have dogs and cats to groom |
| You want easy push-button hair release | Your dog’s shedding is moderate |
| You groom heavily in shedding season | You want one tool for several pets |
The Two Tools
1. FURminator Undercoat deShedding Tool — Best for Double Coats
The FURminator is sized by dog and coat length, and its fine edge removes undercoat efficiently from heavy shedders. The push-button release makes cleanup easy. The linked version suits large, long-haired dogs; choose the size and coat type that match your dog.
- Very efficient on dense undercoat
- Sized to your dog
- Push-button hair release
- Durable build
Worth knowing: Premium price, and it must be used gently and not too often.
2. Hertzko Deshedding Tool — Best Budget
An affordable deshedding tool with a stainless steel blade that works on many dogs and cats with short or long coats. A great value option for moderate shedders and multi-pet homes.
- Budget friendly
- Works on dogs and cats
- Comfortable grip
- Easy to wash
Worth knowing: May need more passes on very thick coats; clean the blade by hand.
Our Verdict
In the FURminator vs Hertzko comparison, the FURminator is the better tool for heavy-shedding double-coated dogs, thanks to its sizing and push-button release. The Hertzko is the better value for moderate shedders and homes with several pets. Pair either with a slicker brush for everyday brushing; see our best dog brushes and how often to brush your dog.
How to Use a Deshedding Tool Properly
- Brush out tangles first with a slicker brush; never use a deshedding tool on mats.
- Start at the neck and work toward the tail in the direction of hair growth.
- Use light, short strokes, lifting the tool after each one; let the edge do the work.
- Avoid the belly, legs, face and any sore or thin-coated areas.
- Stop after 10 to 20 minutes, or sooner if your dog’s skin looks pink.
- Finish with a bristle brush to smooth the coat.
Other Ways to Reduce Shedding
- Brush regularly with a slicker between deshedding sessions.
- A bath followed by thorough drying and brushing loosens a lot of undercoat in shedding season.
- Feed a complete, balanced diet; ask your vet if you notice sudden hair loss or bald patches.
- Wash bedding weekly and vacuum often; see our vacuums for pet hair.
- Remember that shedding is normal. Tools reduce the hair around your home but won’t stop a dog from shedding.
Related Guides
- 6 Best Deshedding Tools for Dogs in 2026, Matched to Coat Type
- 4 Best Dog Brushes in 2026: Which Brush for Which Coat?
- How Often to Brush Your Dog (By Coat Type, With a Simple Routine)
- 3 Best Cat Brushes for Shedding (Long and Short Hair)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the FURminator better than the Hertzko?
For thick double coats, the FURminator’s sizing and hair release make it more efficient. For moderate shedders and budgets, the Hertzko performs well for less.
How often should I use a deshedding tool?
Once or twice a week, in short sessions, is enough for most dogs. Overuse can irritate the skin.
Can deshedding tools damage a dog’s coat?
Used gently and not too often, they remove only loose undercoat. Pressing hard, overusing them or using them on the wrong coat type can cause irritation.
Which dogs should not use a deshedding tool?
Single-coated, curly and silky breeds, such as Poodles, Bichons and Yorkies, and any dog with skin problems. Ask your groomer or vet if unsure.
Can I use these tools on cats?
The Hertzko works on cats, and FURminator makes cat-specific versions. See our cat brush guide for options.