Brushes & Combs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best dog grooming brush for my dog?

The best dog grooming brush depends on the length, density and texture of the coat. Slicker and flexi brushes are commonly used on long, curly and wool coats, while rubber or bristle brushes can be useful for shorter, smoother coats. Dogs that shed heavily may benefit from a de-shedding brush, while a metal grooming comb can be used after brushing to check for remaining tangles.

Which dog brush is best for shedding?

A de-shedding brush or undercoat tool is generally the most suitable choice for dogs that release large amounts of loose coat. Rubber brushes can also help lift loose hair from short, smooth coats. The best option depends on whether the dog has a short coat, long coat or dense undercoat.

What brush should I use for long-haired or curly-coated dogs?

Long-haired, curly and wool coats usually need a slicker or flexi brush that can work through the coat in sections. Long-pin brushes may be useful for deeper coats, while firm flexi brushes are available for Poodles, Doodles and Bichons. Follow brushing with a metal dog grooming comb to check for tangles close to the skin.

When should I use a dog grooming comb instead of a brush?

A brush is normally used to cover larger areas, remove loose coat and separate tangles. A dog grooming comb provides greater precision and is useful for checking whether the coat has been brushed through properly. Combs are also helpful around the face, legs, feet and other areas where detailed coat control is needed.

What is a flea comb for dogs used for?

A flea comb has very closely spaced teeth that can help collect fleas, flea dirt and fine debris from the coat. It is particularly useful around the neck, tail base and other areas where fleas may be found. A flea comb can help with checking the coat, but it does not replace an appropriate flea-treatment plan.

What is a slicker brush for dogs used for?

A slicker brush has closely spaced pins that help separate the coat, remove loose hair and work through light tangles. Standard slicker brushes suit general coat care, while long-pin slicker brushes can reach further into long, dense or curly coats. Brush in small sections and avoid pressing the pins heavily against the skin.

What is the best dog brush for short hair?

Short-haired dogs often benefit from rubber brushes, grooming gloves or soft bristle brushes. These tools help collect loose hair and surface debris without requiring long pins to reach through the coat. Dogs with a short but dense undercoat may also need a suitable de-shedding tool during heavier moulting periods.

What is the difference between a slicker brush, pin brush and bristle brush?

A slicker brush uses closely spaced pins for removing loose hair and working through tangles. A pin brush has longer, more widely spaced pins and is commonly used for longer coats and general finishing. Bristle brushes smooth the outer coat and collect surface hair, making them more suitable for short or smooth coats. Combination brushes provide a pin brush on one side and bristles on the other.

What is a metal dog grooming comb used for?

A metal dog grooming comb is used for checking the coat, finding smaller tangles and preparing hair for trimming or finishing. Combination combs usually have both fine and coarse teeth: coarse teeth work through a thicker coat, while fine teeth provide greater control for detailed areas and final checks.

Can de-matting brushes and combs remove matted dog hair?

De-matting brushes and combs can help separate small, manageable tangles, but they should be used carefully to avoid pulling the skin or breaking the coat. Tight, extensive or skin-level matting should not be forced out with repeated brushing. In those cases, the safest approach may be professional assessment and an alternative grooming method.

How do I choose between dog shampoo, conditioner, fragrance and hygiene products?

A professional dog grooming dryer uses high volume or high velocity airflow to remove water from the coat, whereas a human hairdryer relies more heavily on concentrated heat. Dog dryers also offer greater airflow control and pet-grooming nozzles. This makes them more suitable for drying dense coats and reducing drying time without exposing the dog’s skin to excessive heat.