I bought a Chris Christensen brush and it was a big waste of money for me. The brush is just WAY too big and doesn't get through the matts. I prefer my little comb - not sure how to describe it... it is identical to the comb on here
http://www.chrissystems.com/combs.htm but I bought mine at a regular old pet store for 5 dollars or something. Does the trick just nice. (Even if you were to get a CC brush, you'd still need a comb to do the smaller areas like their paws and face - especially the hair on their muzzle). LOTS of people rave about the CC brushes, but for me.. just wasn't worth it.
FANTASTIC harnesses are buddy belts - they're expensive, but they're worth it. It's a step-in leather harness that comes in a wide range of colors. (
www.buddybelts.com) It's really secure and doesn't go anywhere near the dog's neck.
The Wahl trimmer is popular on here (they make them for pets and people) - small and safe to do the sanitary clipping, ears, and paws.