There are three primary tools necessary to keep your Golden’s coat in shape between grooms. A comb, an undercoat rake and a small slicker brush.
I suggest getting a grooming table. It is much easier for you and your Golden. You can get underneath, where a lot of mats start, and, it’s more difficult for your dog to run away! I also suggest using cookies. What do Golden’s need and want? Food and kisses!! Have some treats broken up and nearby so you can give treats as you comb out.
Your Golden Retriever should be combed out at least 3 times a week, preferably every day, it shouldn’t take more than 5 – 10 minutes. These comb outs are to remove dead undercoat, mostly the hair bunnies all over your house, and to prevent knots and mats.
Your primary tool is your comb. 
I like this comb, it does the job and is comfortable in your hand. This is an Oster, you can get it in Walmart, it comes with a flea comb just in case.
Regular combing will keep the undercoat under control and ensure that any forming knots are found and taken care of. Do not use the slicker brush to maintain the coat, it will break the top coat. The comb addresses the undercoat, which is most of the hair that is shed and where the knots and mats form.
The undercoat rake. 
The undercoat rake should have short teeth and only one row. You don’t have to press hard, you don’t want to scratch your dog. Just a nice easy stroke through the coat until very little undercoat comes out, then switch to the comb.
Sometimes the undercoat becomes dense and the comb won’t go through. This is usually before the coat is blown, or tons of shedding happens. If your comb gets stuck, don’t force it through, use the rake. The rake will go through the dense coat until you can go through with the comb.
The slicker brush. 
I like a soft, small slicker brush. This is a doggy man small slicker brush.
This is used when you come across a knot. Start to pull it apart with your fingers and use the brush to brush it out as you pull it apart. If the knot is very large and must be cut out be VERY careful that you don’t cut the dog. If it is very large and close to the skin, or you are uncomfortable, call your groomer, she/he will remove it safely without hurting or cutting your dog.
Regular combing will prevent knots and mats from forming. It will also help with shedding.
I’m planning on making a video to show a proper Golden comb out. I’ll let you know when it comes out.
I hope this article helps you keep your beautiful Golden Retriever beautiful!
As always, my intention is to help you keep your dog healthy and happy for as long as possible. If you have any questions or need more information, or just want to comment, I love your feed back!
Wishing you health and prosperity!
Margaret
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