Regular brushing is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to care for your dog’s health and appearance. But not all dog coats are the same, and brushing the wrong way—or not brushing at all—can lead to mats, skin infections, and a dull, unhealthy coat. Whether your pup has short hair, long locks, or a double coat, this guide will walk you through how to brush dogs of every coat type properly.
Why Brushing Is Essential
Brushing your dog isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a key aspect of hygiene and physical well-being. Benefits include:
- Removing dirt, debris, and loose fur
- Distributing natural oils through the coat
- Preventing painful mats and tangles
- Reducing shedding and allergens in the home
- Detecting skin issues early (like lumps or parasites)
- Strengthening the bond between dog and owner
Let’s dive into the specifics for each coat type.
Short-Haired Dogs
Examples: Beagle, Boxer, Doberman, Chihuahua
Characteristics:
- Coats lie close to the skin
- Less prone to matting
- Shed consistently throughout the year
Recommended Tools:
- Rubber grooming mitt or curry brush
- Bristle brush for finishing
How Often to Brush:
- 1–2 times per week
Brushing Tips:
- Use gentle, circular motions with a rubber brush to lift dead hair
- Brush in the direction of hair growth
- Follow with a soft bristle brush for shine
Bonus Tip: Short-haired dogs still shed—brushing regularly helps minimize fur on furniture and clothes.
Medium-Length Coats
Examples: Golden Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, Australian Shepherd
Characteristics:
- Thicker fur with a slight wave or feathering
- Tangles and mats can form behind ears, under legs, and at the tail
Recommended Tools:
- Slicker brush
- Metal comb
- Deshedding tool (seasonally)
How Often to Brush:
- 3–4 times per week
Brushing Tips:
- Start with a slicker brush to remove surface tangles
- Use a comb to check for hidden mats, especially in dense areas
- Be gentle near sensitive areas like behind the ears and underarms
Bonus Tip: These coats benefit from seasonal deshedding, especially in spring and fall.
Long-Haired Dogs
Examples: Afghan Hound, Shih Tzu, Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier
Characteristics:
- Fine, flowing coats that tangle easily
- Prone to matting, especially without regular brushing
Recommended Tools:
- Pin brush
- Wide-tooth comb
- Mat splitter or dematting tool (if necessary)
How Often to Brush:
- Daily
Brushing Tips:
- Mist coat lightly with water or dog conditioner spray before brushing
- Section the coat and brush from ends to roots
- Use the comb to check that no tangles remain
Bonus Tip: Long-haired breeds often need professional grooming every 4–6 weeks to stay in top condition.
Curly or Wavy Coats
Examples: Poodle, Bichon Frise, Portuguese Water Dog, Labradoodle
Characteristics:
- Dense, curly texture
- Minimal shedding but high risk of matting
Recommended Tools:
- Slicker brush
- Stainless steel comb
- Detangler spray
How Often to Brush:
- Every 1–2 days
Brushing Tips:
- Brush through small sections at a time
- Always use a comb after brushing to ensure no mats remain at the root
- Avoid letting the coat dry after a bath without brushing—it can lock in tangles
Bonus Tip: These coats are prone to invisible matting at the skin. Brush thoroughly down to the base.
Double-Coated Dogs
Examples: Husky, German Shepherd, Akita, Labrador Retriever
Characteristics:
- Two layers: soft undercoat and protective outercoat
- Heavy shedding during seasonal “blowouts”
Recommended Tools:
- Undercoat rake
- Slicker brush
- Deshedding tool
How Often to Brush:
- 2–3 times a week (daily during shedding season)
Brushing Tips:
- Start with the rake to loosen and remove undercoat
- Use the slicker brush to smooth the outer coat
- Be patient—sessions can take longer for thick coats
Bonus Tip: Never shave a double-coated dog; it disrupts natural temperature regulation and can damage hair growth permanently.
Wire-Haired or Harsh Coats
Examples: Terrier breeds, Schnauzer, Brussels Griffon
Characteristics:
- Rough, bristly outer layer
- Little shedding
- Requires hand-stripping for show grooming
Recommended Tools:
- Slicker brush
- Stripping knife (optional for advanced care)
- Comb
How Often to Brush:
- 2–3 times a week
Brushing Tips:
- Focus on removing dead hair while preserving coat texture
- Use a stripping knife only if you’re trained or work with a groomer
Bonus Tip: Harsh coats should not be clipped, as it can soften the coat and change the breed’s appearance.
Brushing Puppies: Start Early!
Introducing grooming early helps puppies accept brushing as a normal, positive part of life.
- Use soft brushes at first
- Keep sessions short and rewarding
- Gently handle ears, paws, and tail to desensitize to future grooming
Signs You’re Not Brushing Enough
- Matted fur
- Excessive shedding
- Itchy or irritated skin
- Dull, lifeless coat
- Dog resists grooming due to discomfort
Regular brushing makes a visible difference—not just in looks, but in your dog’s health and comfort.
Final Thoughts: Brush with Love, Brush with Purpose
Brushing is more than just a beauty routine—it’s a moment of connection, trust, and preventative care. When done properly, brushing soothes the skin, strengthens your relationship, and helps you detect health concerns early. No matter your dog’s coat type, making brushing a consistent habit is one of the best things you can do for their overall well-being.
