If you’re looking for the best brushes for a Newfoundland, especially for those tricky spots behind the ears and along the legs, you’re in the right place. Newfoundland grooming can feel overwhelming at first. They’re giant, fluffy, and absolutely lovable—but their thick double coat requires real commitment.

Newfoundlands are known for their massive size, sweet temperament, and dense, water-resistant coats. That coat is what keeps them protected in cold water—but it’s also what makes them prone to tangles and mats. And if you’ve ever tried brushing behind those big ears or around the back legs, you know those areas mat up fast.

The truth is, grooming a Newfoundland isn’t optional. Regular brushing prevents painful matting, reduces shedding, and keeps their skin healthy. According to the American Kennel Club, Newfoundlands have a heavy double coat that requires consistent maintenance to avoid matting and skin issues (AKC, Newfoundland Breed Info).

The good news? With the right tools and a simple routine, grooming your Newfie becomes much easier—and even enjoyable.

Must Have Grooming Tools Every Newfoundland Owner Needs

Before you start brushing, you need the right grooming tools. Newfoundlands have thick undercoats and long guard hairs. A basic brush won’t cut it—especially behind the ears and on the feathered legs.

Here are the three best brushes for Newfoundland grooming, plus a bonus product that makes everything smoother.

1. Large Slicker Brush

The Freshly Bailey Green Slicker Brush is designed to gently work through thick double coats like a Newfoundland’s. The fine, slightly curved pins help loosen tangles and lift loose undercoat without scratching the skin. This is especially important behind the ears and on the backs of the legs where mats start forming close to the skin.

What we love about this brush for Newfoundlands:

• Great for thick double coats
• Gentle enough for sensitive areas
• Lightweight and easy to maneuver around large dogs

Behind the ears, mats form because of friction and moisture. The slicker brush helps break up small tangles before they turn into tight mats. It’s also excellent for regular maintenance brushing 3–4 times per week to stay ahead of heavy shedding.

If your Newfoundland is new to brushing or a bit sensitive, this brush is a comfortable and effective place to start.

2. Green Metal Pet Comb

A slicker brush alone is not enough for a Newfoundland. You must follow up with a metal comb.

The Green Metal Pet Comb is essential for checking your work. After brushing, you should be able to run the comb from root to tip without resistance. If the comb gets stuck—there’s still a tangle hiding underneath.

This comb works especially well:

• Behind the ears
• In the armpits
• On feathered back legs
• Around the tail

The dual-length stainless steel teeth help reach deep into that thick coat. It’s perfect for medium to large double-coated breeds like Newfoundlands.

Think of the slicker brush as loosening the coat—and the metal comb as finishing the job.

3. Blue Dematting Tool

Even with a consistent routine, life happens. Maybe you missed a week. Maybe your Newfie went swimming three days in a row. Suddenly, there’s a mat behind the ear that won’t budge.

That’s where the Blue Dematting Tool comes in.

This tool is specifically designed to break apart mats safely. The curved blades cut through tangles while minimizing pulling when used correctly.

It’s ideal for:

• Thick mats behind the ears
• Dense tangles on back legs
• Undercoat buildup

If you’re keeping up with brushing 3–4 times per week, you shouldn’t need this tool often. But it’s incredibly helpful before a mat becomes severe enough to require a shave-down.

Always use it gently and work from the outside of the mat inward.

Bonus: Detangler Spray

A detangler spray is not optional for a Newfoundland owner—it’s a game changer.

The Freshly Bailey Detangler Spray helps loosen knots and reduces friction while brushing. It’s especially helpful behind the ears and on leg feathers where hair rubs together constantly.

Benefits:

• Makes brushing smoother and faster
• Helps prevent breakage
• Leaves coat soft and manageable

Lightly mist before brushing. Never soak the coat. A little goes a long way.

Step-by-Step: How to Brush a Newfoundland (Especially Behind Ears and Legs)

Now that you have the right tools, here’s exactly how to groom your Newfoundland safely and effectively.

1. Always Brush a Dry Coat

Hair + water = tighter mats.

If your Newfoundland just had a bath or swim, dry the coat completely before brushing. Brushing wet fur can make tangles worse and cause breakage.

2. Lightly Mist with Detangler Spray

Spray a light mist of detangler in the areas you’re working on—especially behind the ears and on the legs.

This helps the slicker brush glide through the coat.

3. Line Brush with the Slicker Brush

This is the most important step.

Do not just brush the top layer. Mats form close to the skin.

• Start at the bottom of the coat
• Lift a small section of hair
• Brush from skin outward
• Move upward section by section

Behind the ears: Gently hold the ear flap forward and brush the hair underneath in small sections.

Back legs: Focus on the feathering and brush in layers.

Use gentle pull-away strokes. Never drag the brush across the skin.

4. Follow with the Metal Comb

After brushing, take your Green Metal Pet Comb and test each section.

If the comb glides through easily, you’re good.

If it catches, go back with the slicker brush and work that spot again.

This step ensures you’re not missing hidden tangles.

5. Use the Dematting Tool (If Needed)

If you find a stubborn mat:

• Hold the base of the hair close to the skin
• Work from the outer edge of the mat inward
• Use short, gentle strokes

If a mat is tight to the skin or your dog seems uncomfortable, consult a professional groomer. Severe matting can cause skin irritation and should not be aggressively pulled.

6. Stay Consistent

For Newfoundlands, brushing 3–4 times per week is ideal. During heavy shedding seasons (spring and fall), daily brushing may be necessary.

Consistency prevents pain—for both you and your dog.

FAQs About Grooming a Newfoundland

1. What is the best brush for a Newfoundland?

The best brush for a Newfoundland is a slicker brush combined with a metal comb. The slicker removes loose fur and tangles, while the comb ensures the coat is fully detangled down to the skin.

2. How often should I brush my Newfoundland?

You should brush your Newfoundland at least 3–4 times per week. During shedding seasons, daily brushing is recommended to manage undercoat and prevent mats.

3. Why does my Newfoundland get mats behind the ears?

Behind the ears is a high-friction area. Movement, moisture, and rubbing cause hair to tangle quickly. Regular brushing and detangler spray help prevent this.

4. Can I brush my Newfoundland when the coat is wet?

No. Always brush a completely dry coat. Wet hair tightens existing tangles and can lead to more matting.

5. Do Newfoundlands need a dematting tool?

Yes, but only occasionally. If you maintain a regular grooming routine, you shouldn’t need it often. It’s helpful for breaking up stubborn mats before they become severe.

6. Should I shave my Newfoundland if the coat is matted?

Shaving should be a last resort and handled by a professional groomer. Newfoundlands have a double coat that helps regulate body temperature. Severe matting may require professional help.

7. What areas mat the most on a Newfoundland?

The most common trouble spots are:

• Behind the ears
• Back of the legs
• Under the collar
• Armpits
• Tail base

Check these areas every brushing session.

8. Do Newfoundlands shed a lot?

Yes. They are heavy shedders, especially seasonally. Regular brushing helps control loose fur and reduces shedding around your home.

Grooming a Newfoundland takes time, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right brushes and a consistent routine, you’ll prevent painful mats and keep that beautiful coat healthy and manageable.

If you’re building your Newfoundland grooming kit, start with the slicker brush, metal comb, and dematting tool—and don’t forget the detangler spray to make the process easier.

Have questions about grooming your Newfie? Leave a comment—we love hearing from fellow pet parents.

If you’re ready to upgrade your grooming routine, explore our full collection of Freshly Bailey grooming tools to find the right fit for your dog.