Choose tools by matching **tooth length, edge type, pressure tolerance, and stroke direction** to your Lab’s coat and your handling skill.
- **Undercoat rake:** Best for dense undercoat and seasonal “blow.” Look for **rounded, longer teeth** that reach through the topcoat without scraping. Use **light pressure** and pull **with the coat lay** in short strokes. **Skip** if your dog has very short, tight coat density or if you tend to press hard—rakes can irritate skin when overused.
- **Slicker brush:** Good for routine pickup and finishing. Choose fine pins with a cushioned pad; keep strokes **short and controlled**. **Pitfall:** aggressive back-and-forth can cause **coat breakage** and “scratchy” overbrushing.
- **Deshedding tool (blade edge):** Effective when used sparingly, but the **blade edge** can cut coat if you press or repeat passes in the same spot. Use minimal pressure, keep the tool flat, and avoid sensitive areas (armpits, belly). **Skip** if you’re not confident with pressure control.
Routine template: **10–15 minutes per session**, **2–3x weekly** for maintenance; during heavy seasonal shedding, increase to **4–5x weekly** but rotate tools and stop once the brush stops filling quickly to avoid skin scraping.