If you've ever found yourself lost in the maze of dog brushes, unsure which one your pet needs, you're not alone. There are a lot—and I mean a lot—of options out there, and it isn't always clear what each dog brush is for or what their pros and cons are. 🤨 That's about to change!
Grooming essentials: Types of dog brushes and their uses
This section will equip you with the knowledge you need to become a home grooming guru.
Dog comb
A versatile tool that's best for long-haired dogs and when you need to groom with precision (and care) around sensitive areas like a pup's ears and face.
It's a must-have because it works wonders at untangling fur. You'll find wide-tooth, fine-tooth, pin, and combination combs that resemble a barber comb.
✅ Get a narrow, fine-toothed comb for short-coat breeds and a wider comb for long, thick fur.
Slicker brush
Slicker brushes have slim, angled, and closely packed wire bristles designed to penetrate the coat without hitting the skin.
It's a powerful grooming ally because you can use it on all coat types (except short-haired breeds) to tackle matted fur on the body—not the face.
These tools come in different shapes, sizes, and softness. Options include flat or curved heads (general versus tricky areas) and soft or firm bristles. The former is for fine coats, sensitive skin, and daily needs. The latter is for coarse coats and challenging knots or tangles.
✅ A flexible head and ergonomic handle mean less hand strain!
Bristle brush
To add the final touch to your pet's grooming routine, look no further than a bristle brush.
This brush has clusters of closely packed anti-static bristles that remove loose hair, lift dander, smooth the coat, and distribute natural oils.
Note: Unless otherwise stated, bristle brushes shouldn't be used with grooming gels, creams, or liquids.
While they're compatible with all coat types, bristle brushes are best for short-haired, smooth-coated dogs (no thick undercoat to cut through) and canines with silky coats.
✅ Synthetic bristles are easier to clean and can be used with dog hair products, but natural bristles bring out superior shine. ✨
Pin brush
The most popular dog brush because it's gentle on the skin and looks like people's brushes. Namely, they're round or oval-shaped with pin-topped wires coated in plastic, metal, or wood.
Pin brushes come in varying sizes and do a decent job removing dirt, smoothing hair and resolving minor tangles, particularly on wire-coated pups.
✅ You'll cover more ground (quicker) with a round pin brush, while oblong is the go-to for styling.
Undercoat rake
A specialised tool designed to get through heavy coats, reaching tangles and dead hairs near the skin. It's a must-have grooming tool for thick-haired and double-coated dogs like German Shepherds and Chow Chows.
Rakes look like shaving razors or gardening rakes and can have one or two layers of close-spaced spikes. Handle gently so you don't harm your pup.
✅ Choose a rake size that roughly matches your dog's hair length for optimal results.
Curry brush
This rubber grooming tool has a distinct appearance. It's either rectangular or oval-shaped with a strap on the back and short, densely packed rubber bristles.
This type of brush is suitable for short, curly, and wiry coats—and even for grooming cats! (If your feline lets you... 😏)
While curry brushes aren't designed for heavily matted fur, they stimulate the skin, effectively catch loose fur, and can be used wet or dry.
✅ Flexible silicone and an adjustable hand strap allow for maximum comfort.
Grooming mitt
The Grubby Paw Grooming Mitt is a comfy and convenient combination tool. It unites the best features of a curry brush with a handy microfibre mitt on the reverse side. That means it can be used before, during, and after baths for the ultimate grooming experience. All while protecting you against minor bites and scratches!
The mitt works on all coat types, but it's extra well-suited for heavy shedders, pups with short, smooth coats and sensitive doggies who shake in their boots at the sight of traditional brushes. 😜
It massages your pet, removes loose hair, and provides an all-around soothing experience. That's on top of the aesthetic benefits: Making your furry friend's coat look fabulous! 😉
Bonus: The PetLab grooming glove removes errant fur from furniture, upholstery, floors, and car seats.
✅ It's a year-round bestseller, so grab yours while supplies last.
You can now confidently navigate your options and select the right brushes to keep Fido looking fabulous. Happy grooming!