How to brush your dog and what tools to use

How to brush your dog 

Brushing your dog daily is an important step to ensure healthy skin and coat.  This article is designed to help you get a start on how to brush your dog. 

Before starting, choose the right type of brush and comb for your dog's coat type. A good detangling spray is important.  If you need help with this let me know in the comments below!

If your dog has long facial hair, use a small soft slicker or comb to gently work out any tangles.  Use caution not to poke your dog's skin with the comb or bristles. 

Do not yank on ears with a brush or comb.  It can hurt the tender ear leather. 

Do not cut at knots with scissors behind the ears.  A groomer can clip the tangles out.  Brushing too hard can scratch the ear.  Work slowly.  

Brush with a slicker brush if your dog has medium to long hair. If your dog has thick hair you may want to use a comb, undercoat rake, furminator brush, or force dryer.  Check out my article on shedding tools.

If your dog has hair on its legs brush the legs gently by holding your dog's elbow area steady.  The long hair on the backs of the legs that runs from armpit to paw can easily become tangled. Gently comb and brush this area and frequently.

The tummy is sensitive so brush lightly. 

Use a soft slicker to brush the hair but be careful of scratching the skin.  

A groomer can cut this area short to avoid tangles. Do not brush directly over your dog's private area. 

If you cannot remove the tangles, please have a groomer tend to your dog.  If a groomer is not available please look at my article on the best clipper options. 

Brush your dog daily

The sides and back of your dog may be easier to brush and comb.  Start from the top and work your way down to the sides and tail.  Use a gentle but steady stroking motion. 

The rear end can be sensitive-  

Start with a soft slicker brush and brush and comb regularly.  This is a friction area which means it can build mats.  That is why daily brushing is important.

Be careful around the base of the tail near your dog's private areas.  If the hair is getting too long in this area and getting tangled, it needs to be clipped.  

Brush your dog's hind legs-

If your dog has featherings, they can tangle.  The hair on the legs can be cut shorter if they tangle too frequently. 

Brushing your dog is a bonding experience

Tail brushing-

If your dog has a tail worth brushing, you can use a soft slicker, rough slicker, or comb. A detangler can help the process as well.  

If your dog's hair is short and is shedding- Use a zoom groom.  They may be used with and against the grain of your dog's coat growth.  This helps reduce shedding.   Short hair dogs benefit from a daily massage with a zoom groom. 

Thank you for taking great care of your pet and learning how to brush your dog properly.  With the right tools and right approach, your dog will be in tip-top shape!  

Have a great day and comment below.