Brushing a Malamute in Shedding Season: Tools & Steps
Brush your Alaskan Malamute 3 to 4 times a week during shedding season using the Artero Juliet slicker brush to lift loose undercoat, followed by the Artero Rex – Rake L to cleanly remove compacted fur up to 5cm deep, all while preserving the protective guard hairs. Mist with Artero Mix Spray Conditioner beforehand to reduce tangles. Finish with a wide-toothed comb to guarantee a smooth, mat-free coat-your key to managing heavy seasonal shed with confidence and ease. There’s more to mastering their coat than just brushing.
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Notable Insights
- Brush 3 to 4 times weekly during shedding season to manage heavy undercoat loss.
- Apply Artero Mix Spray Conditioner before brushing to reduce tangles and static.
- Start with an Artero Juliet slicker brush to loosen surface and mid-layer undercoat.
- Use the Artero Rex – Rake L to remove compacted undercoat up to 5cm deep.
- Finish with a wide-toothed comb to detect and remove remaining tangles or debris.
Why Alaskan Malamutes Shed Twice a Year
Though they’re now beloved family companions, Alaskan Malamutes still carry the natural shedding cycles of their Arctic ancestors, and you’ll notice they blow their undercoat not once, but twice a year. As double-coated dogs, Malamutes rely on their thick, 2.5cm to 5cm undercoat for insulation against extreme cold, and seasonal shifts trigger predictable shedding cycles from January to June and July to December. You’ll see clumps of loose fur during shedding season as daylight and temperature changes signal their bodies to release the dense undercoat. Importantly, the coarse guard hairs stay intact, protecting skin while regulating body temperature. This twice-yearly shed helps Alaskan Malamutes adapt to changing climates, preserving coat function for Arctic-like conditions they were bred for. It’s not excessive-it’s evolution in action, keeping them healthy, comfortable, and ready for any weather, just like their sled-pulling ancestors.
Top Tools That Actually Work on Double Coats
When it comes to managing your Alaskan Malamute’s thick double coat, having the right tools makes all the difference. A slicker brush, like the Artero Juliet long-pin, uses an air cushion system to gently detangle a thick coat without irritating sensitive skin. For deeper work, an undercoat rake such as the Artero Rex – Rake L reaches up to 5cm into dense fur, pulling out compacted shedding hair. During peak shedding months, use the Artero King Double Super Coat tool to safely remove dead undercoat hairs without harming the guard coat. Conditioning sprays help too, adding moisture and reducing tangles in the 2.5cm–5cm thick undercoat.
| Tool | Function | Depth/Use |
|---|---|---|
| Artero Juliet slicker brush | Detangles topcoat | Air-cushioned, safe for daily use |
| Artero Rex – Rake L | Removes undercoat | Up to 5cm penetration |
| Artero King de-shedder | Extracts dead hair | Preserves guard coat |
| Conditioning spray | Reduces tangles | Adds moisture and shine |
| Undercoat rake (weekly) | Manages shedding | Jan–Jun & Jul–Dec |
How to Brush Your Malamute During Shedding Season
You’ve got the tools-now it’s time to put them to work during your Alaskan Malamute’s heavy shedding season. Brush 3 to 4 times weekly with a long-pin slicker brush like the Artero Juliet ($15.98) to manage loose undercoat and maintain healthy coat condition. Follow with the Artero Rex – Rake L ($24.92) to safely remove compacted undercoat without harming the guard hairs-ideal for this double-layered coat type. Spray on Artero Mix Spray Conditioner before brushing; it detangles and boosts shine in thick double coats. Finish with a wide-toothed comb to check for remaining tangles and confirm smooth gliding from skin to tip. Pair brushing with a high-velocity dryer and back-brushing to lift the undercoat, drastically cutting loose hair in your home. This routine keeps your dogs comfortable and your house cleaner, supporting long-term coat health for double-coated dogs.
Prevent Mats and Keep Coat Healthy Year-Round
While shedding season demands intense grooming, keeping your Alaskan Malamute’s coat mat-free and healthy year-round starts with consistent, proper brushing using the right tools and techniques. Brush weekly with a long-bristle slicker brush like the Artero Juliet, which has an air cushion system to protect healthy skin and prevent irritation. Use the Artero Rex – Rake L to safely reach 2.5cm–5cm into the undercoat, removing dense loose fur without harming guard hairs. Apply Artero Mix Spray Conditioner before brushing-it adds moisture, reduces tangles, and boosts shine. Practice line brushing by lifting sections to find hidden mats, especially behind ears and under legs. Finish with a wide-toothed comb to confirm the dog’s coat is fully detangled and debris-free. Regular at-home care reduces the need for frequent grooming services and keeps your dog’s coat strong, resilient, and healthy year-round.
On a final note
Brush your Malamute twice weekly with a Furminator deShedding Tool and a Greyhound comb to cut shedding by up to 90%, per owner reports. Always start with a slicker brush, then finish with a rake to pull loose undercoat-just 10 minutes per session prevents mats. Pair grooming with weekly baths using oatmeal-based shampoo to soothe skin. Feed omega-rich foods like salmon oil, boosting coat health from within-testers saw shinier fur in 3 weeks.
