Your dog's shedding has a lot to do with its undercoat, the shorter, thicker layer of fur hidden underneath the surface layer. You might not even know it's there, but it keeps your dog warm during the colder seasons. When it isn't chilly the undercoat needs to go, either by shedding or removal with a tool. The Furminator and the Shed Ender are two of a wide selection of deshedding tools or undercoat "rakes."
Function
Both the Furminator and the Shed Ender work by removing your dog's dead, unnecessary undercoat fur and reducing shedding. Getting rid of the extra fur will generally make your dog more comfortable and seriously cut down on clumps of hair around the house. The blade, made up of tiny dense metal teeth, catches the thick undercoat fur while leaving the topcoat in place. The brushing motion also releases natural oils in the skin that keep your dog's fur shiny and healthy.
Similarities and Differences
More information is available about the Furminator, while the Shed Ender is mainly known for its "As Seen on TV" marketing. Furminator uses a stainless steel blade and claims to cut shedding by 90 percent. It comes in three sizes, and the company also makes deshedding shampoos, treats and supplements. The Shed Ender is very similar, but comes in only one size. Furminator tools range in price from $34 to about $60 wholesale and from $10 to $60 retail depending on the vendor. The Shed Ender is less expensive, usually priced around $9.99.
User Feedback
Reviews of both products say they work as advertised, but the Furminator seems to be the user favorite, mostly because it comes in larger sizes. The most common complaint about the Shed Ender is that because it is smaller, it might be too time-consuming for larger dogs.
Recognition
The Furminator is also an award-winner, including the Editor's Choice Award from Cat Fancy in 2007, Pet Business in 2006 and Dog Fancy, Cat Fancy and Pet Product News in 2005, according to the company's website.
Availability
The Shed Ender is sold at Target, Ace Hardware, Walgreens and Amazon.com and can be ordered online or by phone. The Furminator is sold online and nationally by PetSmart and Petco and can be found at independent pet supply retailers, veterinarians, groomers and rescue organizations, as well as in catalogs.
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