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9 Best Brushes for Border Collies – 2024 Reviews & Top Picks

Grant Piper

By Grant Piper

Groomer brushing a Border Collie

Border Collies do not have an overwhelming amount of hair, but they still need to be regularly brushed. Border Collies’ coats can become dirty and matted over time, especially if they spend a lot of time outside. The best way to care for your Border Collie’s coat is to brush it regularly. But which brush is the best? How do you know you are getting a good deal?

This guide covers nine of the best brushes for Border Collies available on the market today along with reviews of each one. We have also included a brief buyer’s guide to help steer you in the right direction, so you end up with the product that is best suited for you and your Border Collie.

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A Quick Look at Our Favorites in 2024

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Babyliss Pro Pet Long Pin Slicker Pet Brush Babyliss Pro Pet Long Pin Slicker Pet Brush
  • Simple and functional
  • Strong, flexible brush pins
  • Comfortable handle
  • Best Value
    Second place
    Four Paws Magic Coat Professional Series Four Paws Magic Coat Professional Series
  • Super affordable
  • Strong stainless steel pins
  • Great for medium coats
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    GoPets Dematting Comb GoPets Dematting Comb
  • Multiple functions in one purchase
  • Slick stainless steel construction
  • Comfortably cuts matted fur rather than rips it out
  • Best for Puppies
    HandsOn All-In-One HandsOn All-In-One
  • Ingenious design
  • Perfect for brushing your dog in the bath
  • Will hold up to soap and water
  • KONG Dog ZoomGroom KONG Dog ZoomGroom
  • Durable Kong rubber
  • Large points make for a strong curry brush
  • Can be used in the bath
  • The 9 Best Brushes for Border Collies

    1. Babyliss Pro Pet Long Pin Slicker Pet Brush – Best Overall

    Babyliss Pro Pet

    Type: Wire brush
    Material: Stainless steel
    Color: White

    In many cases, simple and functional are the two pillars of a great product. The Babyliss Pro Pet Long Pin Slicker Pet Brush is both simple and functional. This brush has a large head with numerous stainless steel pins. This brush easily glides through thick and long coats while breaking up mats and leaving fur smooth. The pins are flexible, which makes it comfortable for your Border Collie during brushing. Other brushes with rigid pins can cause tugging and pulling, which can pull your dog’s skin, causing pain.

    The handle is a simple ergonomic design made from hard plastic. The brush is easy to use, works great for Border Collie coats, and will not break the bank. Some brushes get too complicated or too cute with features. This brush does one job, and it does it exceptionally well. If you want a basic dog brush that will tackle your Border Collie fur, you want to grab the Babyliss Pro Pet Long Pin Slicker Pet Brush today. We think it’s the best overall brush for Border Collies.

    Pros
    • Simple and functional
    • Strong, flexible brush pins
    • Comfortable handle
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Not waterproof
    • Pins can rust

    2. Four Paws Magic Coat Professional Mat & Tangle Remover – Best Value

    Four Paws Magic Coat Professional Services Instant Mat & Tangle Remover Rake & Comb

    Type: Rake and comb
    Material: Plastic and stainless steel
    Color: Blue

    Not everyone wants to spend a ton of money on a dog brush. Dog brushes get lost or can get broken or chewed up by your playful Collie. The Four Paws Magic Coat Professional Series Instant Mat & Tangle Remover Rake & Comb is the perfect solution to these problems. This brush is extremely affordable, so you can easily replace it if you need to or buy two so you always have a backup. It has a double row of stainless steel pins and a sturdy handle, so you can really tug on those stubborn tangles. This product is designed for dogs with medium, long, or curly coats which makes it perfect for Border Collie owners.

    Unfortunately, while the pins are strong, they do not mitigate any pain during grooming. The pins can pull on the fur and cause pain if you are not careful. However, we still think it’s the best brush for Border Collies for the money.

    Pros
    • Super affordable
    • Strong stainless steel pins
    • Great for medium coats
    Cons
    • Pins can pull the fur too much
    • You have to be careful during grooming

    3. GoPets Dematting Comb with Professional Grooming Rake – Premium Choice

    GoPets Dematting Comb

    Type: Combination
    Material: Stainless steel
    Color: Orange

    If you are looking for an all-in-one combination product that can tackle all of your grooming needs with one buy, you want to check out the GoPets Dematting Comb with 2 Sided Professional Grooming Rake. This professional grooming tool has multiple functions. It can work as a basic comb, but it also has two sides that work to detangle and thin stubborn fur. The stainless steel head is designed to gently cut matted fur rather than rip it out. Cheaper products rely on you to rip bad fur out of your dog, which can be painful. This tool has a handy crank that helps remove fur in a safer and more comfortable way. It can also work to thin the undercoat and as a deshedding rake.

    The biggest drawback to this product is the price. It is more expensive than most simple dog brushes on the market, but it does a lot more than a simple dog brush. This tool could be the perfect one for your Border Collie’s grooming kit.

    Pros
    • Multiple functions in one purchase
    • Slick stainless steel construction
    • Comfortably cuts matted fur rather than rips it out
    Cons
    • More expensive than other products

    4. HandsOn All-In-One Bathing & Grooming Gloves – Best for Puppies

    HandsOn All-in-One Pet Bathing & Grooming Gloves

    Type: Grooming glove
    Material: Rubber
    Color: Multiple available

    Few people consider getting a brush and glove combination, but they are actually ingenious products, especially for puppies that may not have a lot of thick hair yet. The HandsOn All-In-One Pet Bathing & Grooming Gloves turns your hands into effective dog brushes. This product is perfect for bath time and gentle grooming sessions. You can put dog shampoo directly onto the gloves and rub down your dog. The tines on the gloves will break up mats, remove dead fur and keep your hands dry while doing it. The gloves can be subjected to soap and water without any problems. The dog feels like it is getting a warm massage, and it is very comfortable. These gloves give you unrivaled control over your dog’s bath-time grooming.

    Be sure to pick the right size. The gloves are not one size fits all. Also, be aware of potential static shock. During dry times these gloves can generate a lot of static when you are rubbing down your dog.

    Pros
    • Ingenious design
    • Perfect for brushing your dog in the bath
    • Will hold up to soap and water
    • Very comfortable for your dog
    Cons
    • Staticky
    • You need to pick the right size for your hands

    5. KONG Dog ZoomGroom Multi-Use Brush

    Kong Dog ZoomGroom Brush

    Type: Curry brush
    Material: Rubber
    Color: Blue or pink

    Some brushes are fragile and can crack, break, or fall apart after extended use. Some Border Collie fur can get very thick and matted, and that can be a big problem for some products. That is why Kong has developed their own super durable curry that is designed to last. The KONG Dog ZoomGroom Multi-Use Brush is built with durability in mind. It is made from the thick rubber that Kong is known for. The large pyramid points are perfect for breaking up tough mats and getting down to your dog’s skin. This brush will not break if you drop it, after hard use, or if your dog accidentally gets a hold of it. If you have struggled to keep your dog brushes in good shape you should consider looking at the KONG Dog ZoomGroom Multi-Use Brush. The rubber design also makes it a great choice for bath time.

    Some users reported having a hard time holding on to the brush because it does not have a traditional handle or strap often found on curry brushes. That can make holding it awkward. But ergonomic issues aside, this is a great brush to try out for your Border Collie.

    Pros
    • Durable Kong rubber
    • Large points make for a strong curry brush
    • Can be used in the bath
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Hard to hold on to
    • Poor ergonomic design

    6. Paws & Pals Best In Show Dog Deshedding Tool

    Paws & Pals Best In Show Deshedding Brush

    Type: Deshedder
    Material: Stainless steel
    Color: Blue

    Border Collies have medium coats, but they can be subjected to a lot of shedding during certain times. A Border Collie that has a lot of dead fur can become smelly and itchy. For those situations, you should look at the Paws & Pals Best In Show Dog & Cat Deshedding Tool. This simple brush is designed to facilitate shedding in your dog. The stainless steel pins get deep down into the undercoat and lift dead fur to the surface so you can pull it off and throw it away. This tool is great for owners who struggle with a lot of dead fur on their Border Collie. The Paws & Pals Best In Show Dog & Cat Deshedding Tool is also affordable and durable as an added bonus.

    The tines on this brush are fairly short, so it can struggle to get down to the very bottom of the coat for some dogs, depending on the thickness and length of the coat. If you keep your Border Collie shaggy, you might not get the ideal results from this brush.

    Pros
    • Can pull up dead fur with one pull
    • Durable design
    • Great for Border Collie coats
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Could be longer to tackle the undercoat better
    • Not great for thick or shaggy coats

    7. Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush for Dogs

    Hertzko Self-Cleaning Dog & Cat Slicker Brush

    Type: Self-cleaning
    Material: Metal and plastic
    Color: Purple

    If you have ever had to pull clumps of hair out of a dog brush, you know how frustrating it can be. Hair can get clumped between the teeth, and it can get tangled and hard to remove. The Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush for Dogs eliminates that hassle by using a brilliant system. The brush has a button that, when pushed, retracts the brush pins leaving the fur ready to be easily wiped away and tossed. This makes cleaning the brush a breeze. The brush itself has angled pins for easy use. The handle is comfortable and has a hole so you can hang it on a rack up and out of reach of your pets. It is affordable and works on almost every type of fur. This is one of the best-selling pet brushes on the market and is a must buy for anyone looking for a self-cleaning brush.

    The biggest downside of this product is that some people believe the pins are too sharp. If you scrape too hard you can cause scratches on your dog’s skin so be careful during grooming.

    Pros
    • Easily cleanable
    • Genius design
    • Durable product
    • Universally adored by dog owners
    Cons
    • Sharp brush can cause scratches

    8. Wahl Premium Pet Double-Sided Pin Bristle Brush

    WAHL

    Type: Combination
    Material: Plastic and rubber
    Color: Orange and white

    Some people like to take their Border Collies out and about with them. Border Collies love getting out of the house and going on adventures. That can wreak havoc on your Collie’s fur. That is where the Wahl Premium Pet Double-Sided Pin Bristle Brush comes in. This is a great combination brush that is very small and lightweight. It can easily be thrown into a purse or the backseat of your car. It has an ergonomic handle, a wide brush head, and two sides for different brushing motions. This product is also very affordable so that you can buy multiple for different places. That makes it the perfect brush for Border Collie owners who are always on the go. Never get caught with a terrible tangle when at the dog park ever again.

    Some users have reported that the pins can bend or break after extensive use. That could be a problem if you are dealing with thick mats on a regular basis.

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Small yet functional
    • Affordable
    • Perfect for the dog park or beach
    Cons
    • Fragile metal tines

    9. Pet Republique Dematting Rake

    Pet Republique Dematting Rake

    Type: Dematter
    Material: Stainless steel
    Color: Yellow

    The Pet Republique Dematting Rake is the perfect tool for people who like to do dog grooming at home. It has two different types of blades for breaking up matted fur and thinning fur that has gotten too thick. The blades are made out of durable stainless steel, which makes it very easy to clean and maintain. The Pet Republique Dematting Rake features an ergonomic handle that always feels safe and comfortable in your hand. This tool is perfect for thinning Border Collie hair, especially if you live in a warm climate or have a dog that often gets into dirt, mud, or plants when outside.

    The biggest complaints about this product revolve around dogs with very long fur. It does not do a great job of getting deep down to the undercoat of shaggy dogs. It also struggles with dogs that have coats that are multiple inches long.

    Pros
    • Stainless steel construction
    • Works to break up mats and thin fur
    • Comfortable ergonomic design
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Not great for very long coats
    • Limited power to thin undercoat

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    Buyer’s Guide – Choosing the Best Brushes for Border Collies

    Your Typical Grooming Routine

    The first thing you should determine before choosing the best brush for your Border Collie is what your typical grooming routine is. Does your dog often get dirty, matted fur? Do you give baths regularly or not very often? Do you brush your dog daily, weekly, or monthly? Does your dog have professional grooming? These questions will help steer your choice of product. If you frequently bathe and groom your dog at home, you might want to invest in some higher-quality products. If your dog gets matted or tangled fur regularly, you might want to consider getting a detangler. If you take your dog to grooming, you might not need a heavy-duty brush at home since you are paying for a professional service.

    What Does Your Border Collie Do?

    Your Border Collie’s typical behavior is also going to influence your decision. If your dog goes outside a lot or has an outdoor job, you might need a sturdier comb to deal with dirt and plant debris that could get stuck in the fur. If your Border Collie normally stays indoors, you might not need as strong of a brush. How dirty does your Border Collie get on a regular basis? Does it get dirtier indoors or outdoors?

    Border Collie outdoors
    Image Credit: ForeverNaturalPhotography, Shutterstock

    Budget

    Budget is going to come into play with any purchase. Do you want to spend $10, $20, or more on a brush? Do you want to buy one brush that can do a multitude of things, or do you want to buy multiple grooming products that can work together to keep your dog looking its best? Many of these products can work together and do different jobs, and some people like to have multiple brushes for their Border Collie’s coat. There are plenty of budget products that offer a ton of great value, and there are also more expensive options that can cut your dog’s fur as well as brush it.

    Brush vs. Curry vs. Comb vs. Detangler

    There are a variety of different brush types for Border Collies. Some people get confused because many of these terms are used interchangeably. Brushes have wide round heads with small tines that are used for smoothing the fur. Curries are used in a rough, circular motion to break up dead hair, matted fur, and dry skin. Combs are straight and narrow and have individual teeth that can be used to remove things from Border Collie fur as well as straighten the coat. Detanglers are designed to break up thick knots and tangled hair. Each one works in a slightly different way and offers slightly different results. Some products have combinations of these different types of brushes all in one.

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    Conclusion

    Border Collies have a medium-length coat, but it can get tangled and matted over time, especially if it spends a lot of time outside. The best way to help keep your Border Collie’s coat in good shape is to brush it periodically. Our top choice for brushes for Border Collies is the Babyliss Pro Pet Long Pin Slicker Pet Brush. If you need to stick to a budget, try the Four Paws Magic Coat Professional Series Instant Mat & Tangle Remover Rake & Comb. And for a premium, all-in-one option, check out the GoPets Dematting Comb with 2 Sided Professional Grooming Rake.

    These are nine of the best brushes for Border Collies on the market today, and each one does something better than the others. All you have to do is pick the one that fits your budget and your Border Collie’s lifestyle.


    Featured Image Credit: antoniodiaz, Shutterstock

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