Quick Answer
To brush a dog properly: choose the right brush for your dog's coat type, brush in the direction of hair growth, work in sections from skin to tip (not just the surface), and brush before baths. Frequency ranges from daily (curly coats) to weekly (short coats).
Brushing is the single most important at-home grooming task. It prevents painful mats, distributes natural oils, removes loose hair, and lets you spot skin issues early. Yet many dog owners either skip it or do it incorrectly - brushing only the surface while tangles build up underneath.
🔧 Brush Types & Which to Use
| Brush Type | Best For | Breeds |
|---|---|---|
| Slicker Brush | Removing tangles, everyday brushing | Poodles, Doodles, Shih Tzus, most breeds |
| Undercoat Rake | Removing dead undercoat | Huskies, German Shepherds, Goldens |
| Pin Brush | Gentle detangling, finishing | Yorkies, Maltese, Afghan Hounds |
| Bristle Brush | Removing loose hair, adding shine | Labs, Beagles, Bulldogs |
| Rubber Curry Brush | Massage, loose hair removal | All short-coated breeds |
| Greyhound Comb | Final check for tangles | All breeds (finishing tool) |
🛍️ Dog Brushes & Combs
Slicker brushes, undercoat rakes, and detangling tools for every coat type.
Browse Products →🐶 Brushing Guide by Coat Type
Curly / Wool Coats (Poodle, Doodle, Bichon)
Brush: Slicker brush + greyhound comb | Frequency: Daily
Use "line brushing" technique: part the hair in sections and brush from skin to tip. Never just brush the surface - tangles form at the skin level. Follow up with a comb to check for hidden tangles. Spray with detangler first for easier brushing.
Double Coats (Husky, Golden, Shepherd, Corgi)
Brush: Undercoat rake + slicker brush | Frequency: 2-3x per week
Use the undercoat rake to remove dead undercoat, then follow with a slicker brush for the topcoat. During shedding season (spring/fall), brush daily. Never shave a double-coated breed - the undercoat provides insulation in both hot and cold weather.
Long / Silky Coats (Yorkie, Maltese, Shih Tzu)
Brush: Pin brush + slicker brush + comb | Frequency: Daily
Mist with detangler, then brush gently in the direction of hair growth. Work in small sections. Use the pin brush for general brushing and the slicker for any tangles. Always finish with a comb through the entire coat.
Short Coats (Lab, Beagle, Boxer, Pug)
Brush: Rubber curry brush or bristle brush | Frequency: Weekly
Short coats are the easiest to maintain. Use circular motions with a rubber curry brush to loosen dead hair and stimulate the skin. Follow with a bristle brush for a smooth finish. These breeds still shed significantly and benefit from regular brushing.
👉 Proper Brushing Technique
- 1Start at the feet and work up
Begin at the paws and legs, then belly, sides, back, chest, and head. This prevents pushing tangles into already-brushed areas.
- 2Brush from skin to tip
Part the hair and brush outward from the skin. Surface brushing misses tangles that form closest to the skin.
- 3Use gentle, short strokes
Don't drag the brush through the entire coat in one long stroke. Short, gentle strokes are more effective and more comfortable for your dog.
- 4Don't forget hidden areas
Behind the ears, armpits, groin, and the area where the collar sits are common matting spots. Always check these areas.
- 5Finish with a comb
Run a greyhound comb through the entire coat after brushing. If the comb glides through without snagging, you're done. Snags mean more brushing is needed.
⚠️ How to Handle Mats
- Spray with detangler first and let it sit for a few minutes
- Hold the base of the mat close to the skin to prevent painful pulling
- Work from the outer edges inward using a slicker brush or mat breaker
- Never cut mats with scissors - it's extremely easy to cut skin hidden inside the mat
- For severe matting, take your dog to a professional groomer who can safely remove mats with clippers
📅 How Often to Brush by Coat Type
| Coat Type | Minimum | Ideal |
|---|---|---|
| Curly/Wool | Every other day | Daily |
| Long/Silky | Every other day | Daily |
| Double Coat | 2x per week | 3-4x per week |
| Wire Coat | 2x per week | 3x per week |
| Short Coat | Weekly | 2x per week |
Need Professional De-Matting Help?
If your dog has severe matting, a professional groomer can safely remove mats and get your dog's coat back on track.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I brush my dog?▼
Curly and long coats need daily brushing, double coats 2-3 times per week, and short coats weekly. More frequent brushing during shedding season benefits all breeds.
What type of brush is best for my dog?▼
Slicker brushes for curly and long coats, undercoat rakes for double-coated breeds, bristle brushes for short coats, and pin brushes for silky coats. Many dogs benefit from 2-3 different brushes.
How do I remove mats from my dog's coat?▼
Spray with detangler, hold the mat base close to skin, work from outer edges inward with a slicker brush. Never cut mats with scissors. For severe matting, see a professional groomer.
Should I brush before or after a bath?▼
Always brush BEFORE a bath. Water tightens tangles and mats, making them much harder to remove.
My dog hates being brushed. What should I do?▼
Start with short 1-2 minute sessions with high-value treats. Use a soft brush, brush gently in the direction of hair growth, and gradually increase session length. If your dog is fearful of grooming, address the underlying anxiety first.
Want professional help with your dog's coat? Find groomers near you who can get your dog's coat in top shape.
