Regular brushing is an essential and often overlooked step in the grooming process. Brushing not only keeps the fur free of mats and debris, it also stimulates the dog’s skin by allowing natural oils to circulate through the hair. If done regularly, shedding will be reduced and your dog will be able to maintain a shiny, healthy coat.
BrushesLike any job, proper tools make a huge difference, and in the case of grooming, tools should be specifically matched to your dog’s coat type. The following suggestions will help you make the best choice for your pet’s care:
- Short Coat: A soft bristled brush of any size works very well for this coat type. It isn’t strong enough to penetrate long hair, but it is perfect for removing the dead hair from a short coat. One of the most common pet brushes on the market, the slicker brush, will also work on a shorthaired dog, though it is better suited for other lengths. A slicker brush has a flat rectangular head with short, bent wire bristles, making it easy to handle and maneuver.
- Long Coat (Wavy or Wire): A pin brush is best for this coat type. The wire bristles of the pin brushwork well on coarse hair. The slicker brush is also an appropriate choice. A shedding comb or wide-toothed comb will provide the finishing touch to the undercoat of dogs with heavy, dense fur. A comb with closer set teeth can pull out any dead hair that is still lingering after the majority of the work is done.
- Long Coat (Curly or Silky): The slicker brush does a wonderful job working through the tangles that inevitably plague dogs with long hair. It keeps the straight, silky coat soft and shiny and tames out of control curls. A wide-toothed comb or shedding comb, such as Shed Ender will also work well on this coat. If your pet has not been brushed for some time, you may encounter mats in the hair. Dematting tools or dematting combs as they are sometimes called, are made specifically for mats within the fur.
Brushing Your DogLong haired dogs should be groomed daily, while short haired breeds may require grooming as little as twice a week.
After you and your pet are in a comfortable position, begin brushing at the head, working your way towards the tail and then finally, down the legs. You should always start by brushing in the direction of hair growth. Once your dog has been completely brushed, you can go in the other direction just to fluff the hair.
While brushing, carefully check your dog for potential skin problems. Moving the hair aside, look for signs of fleas, ticks, and skin irritations, such as inflammation, lumps, or dermatitis. If you find a serious problem, consult your veterinarian to discuss possible treatment options.
If your pet has long hair, you may want to follow-up with a comb or a dematting tool to remove tangles and mats that may still be in the coat. Because this step can be very painful to dogs, try to hold the hair at the base of the knot or mat while you comb to avoid tugging on sensitive skin. If necessary, carefully remove the mat with scissors.
Poodles and Other Non-Shedding BreedsMost people believe poodles do not shed and therefore do not need to be brushed. This, however, is a myth. Poodles and similar breeds do shed their dead hair, but because they have such a dense undercoat, the dead hair actually gets caught and is unable to fall out as it should. This causes the coat to mat easily if the dead hair is not frequently removed. So, be sure to brush your pet regardless of the breed.
Five Hints and Tips to Make Brushing Easier
- Always brush before you bathe. Getting a tangled, matted coat wet will only make it worse.
- Be as consistent as possible. Regular grooming sessions are an important part of your dog’s care and health. If brushed regularly, your dog will become comfortable with the process and may even look forward to it.
- Let your dog sniff the brush and comb before you begin grooming. No pet likes being touched with an unfamiliar object.
- Talk to your pet in a reassuring tone during the entire grooming process. Sing, praise, or do whatever else it takes to make your dog comfortable and happy.
- Always be as gentle as possible while brushing your pet. All dogs have sensitive areas that need to be groomed more carefully than others. Your consideration will make your dog less likely to resist grooming sessions.
