I do in certain areas. Not all over. I use it to brush the fur up on their feet before thinning them and run the fur upward on the back hocks for trimming. It's really useful on long furnishings and tails. And it helps take some of the wave out of curly croup fur when used with a blow dryer. But it doesn't get down to the skin very well, so an undercoat rake and comb are still necessary. If there are any mats, I split them, use the slicker and then the comb. I do think that a slicker may break some of the coat, but why not have all the tools that make your job easier and help lessen any discomfort for the dog. And after grooming, I use it to rake the carpet. LOL