Brushing Basics: Tools & Techniques for Different Breeds

We get it — brushing your dog’s coat can feel like a chore. But with the right tools, a little know-how, and a dash of consistency, brushing becomes less of a battle and more of a bonding moment. Whether your pup has flowing locks, dense undercoat, or a sleek, short coat, understanding which tools to use and how to use them makes all the difference.

Let’s break down why brushing is so important, and how to pick the right brush for your best friend.

Why Brushing Matters

Brushing your dog isn’t just about good looks (though that floofy, fresh-out-of-the-salon vibe is a plus). It helps:

• Prevent painful tangles and mats

• Reduce shedding around the house

• Keep the skin healthy by spreading natural oils

• Strengthen your bond with your dog

• Catch skin issues or pests early

But here’s the catch: using the wrong tools can actually cause more harm than good. Irritated skin, broken hair, or missed tangles can all result from the wrong brush or poor technique. So, let’s talk tools and tips — starting with the basics.

Universal Brushing Tips (for Every Dog!)

No matter the breed, these brushing tips will help you and your pup have a more pleasant grooming experience:

• Make brushing a habit. A few minutes a day beats an hour-long tangle-fest once a week. Daily brushing lets you catch and gently work out tangles before they become a matted mess.

• Focus on friction zones. Behind the ears, under the legs, around the tail, belly, and booty — these are mat magnets!

• Work top to bottom. Brushing in small sections from top to bottom helps you stay organized and ensures you don’t miss any spots.

• Test your pressure. Use your slicker brush on your forearm. If it’s too harsh for you, it’s too harsh for them.

• Try a hand dryer. Many groomers use fluff dryers to lift and separate hair for a better view. A home hand dryer (on a cool setting!) can help mimic this, especially with longer or curly coats.

Coat-Specific Tools & Techniques

Straight Hair (Shih Tzus, Maltese, Yorkies)

Use: Slicker Brush + Greyhound Comb: These two are your dream team. Use the slicker brush to gently remove tangles, then follow up with the greyhound comb to check for any sneaky knots. If the comb snags, the job’s not done.

Bonus Tools:

• Pin Brush – Great for nervous pups or bonding time, though not a heavy-duty detangler.

• Small Hand Dryer – Helpful to lift the hair and check your work.

Curly & Wavy Hair (Poodles, Doodles, Portuguese Water Dogs)

Use: Slicker Brush + Greyhound Comb: Yep, same tools — but with even more urgency. Curly coats mat faster and tighter than any other type. Work in sections, and don’t skip the legs, tail, and feet!

Bonus Tools:

• Pin Brush – Soothing and great for bonding, but not a mat-fighter.

• Small Hand Dryer – A must for seeing what’s really going on in that fluff.

Wire Hair (Terriers, Schnauzers, Scotties, Westies)

Use: Slicker Brush + Greyhound Comb: Especially important for dogs with longer “skirts” or furnishings in breed trims. These areas tangle fast and should never be overlooked.

Add These to Your Toolkit:

• SleekEZ or Curry Comb – Removes dead hair and keeps skin clear, which is crucial for terriers prone to clogged follicles.

• Curved Undercoat Rake – Gets deep into that wiry coat, but be careful: short strokes only to avoid damaging the hair.

• Boar’s Hair Brush – Distributes natural oils for a healthy shine and smooth finish.

• Small Hand Dryer – Great for checking your work and drying after a bath.

Long Double Coat (Newfies, Great Pyrenees, Bernese Mountain Dogs)

Use: Slicker Brush + Greyhound Comb: These big fluffers have coats so dense that brushing to the skin is key. Try line brushing, working in horizontal layers a couple inches apart to be sure you’re reaching the base of the coat.

Essential Tools:

• Velocity Dryer – Best for blowing out loose undercoat and spotting tangles. Use in a cleanable space (seriously... mask and goggles wouldn’t hurt).

• Pronged Undercoat Rake – Perfect for deshedding without damage. Unlike curved rakes, these don’t have blades and are much gentler.

• Pin Brush – Soft and bonding-focused. Not great for detangling, but your pup will love it.

Short to Medium Double Coat (German Shepherds, Huskies, Labs)

Use: Velocity Dryer or Curved Undercoat Rake: These coats pack in the undercoat, especially during seasonal shedding. A velocity dryer blasts it out in a satisfying flurry. No dryer? Use a curved undercoat rake, but take it easy — short strokes only, and avoid sensitive areas.

Important Tips:

• Overbrushing can damage the coat — if there’s no more resistance, move on.

• Never use rakes on thin skin or bony spots.

Short Sleek Fur (Chihuahuas, Dobermans, Pitties)

Use: Rubber Curry Comb: Gentle and effective. This brush grabs loose hairs without scraping the skin. A favorite for pups who don’t need much brushing but still shed like crazy.

Optional Tools:

• SleekEZ or Metal Curry Comb – Use with caution and avoid thin-skinned pups.

• Boar’s Hair Brush – Helps distribute oils and leaves the coat glossy. Also perfect for some loving strokes while watching TV.

Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple, Keep It Consistent

Thanks for hanging in there — we know this was a long one, but when it comes to brushing, knowledge truly is power (and the key to a happy, mat-free pup).

Here’s what to remember:

• 5 minutes a day > 1 hour at the end of the week

• Right tools = better results and fewer grooming struggles

• Not sure what to use or how? Ask your groomer! We love helping you figure out what works best for your pup at home.

Happy brushing!