05/16/2025
Why Brushing Your Dog Matters (And How to Do It Right!)
Regular brushing is one of the most important things you can do for your dog — not just to keep them looking good, but to keep their skin and coat healthy, too.
Why Brushing and De-Shedding Is So Important
* Reduces Shedding: Regular brushing helps pull out loose fur before it ends up all over your couch, clothes, and car.
* Prevents Mats and Tangles: Mats can get tight, painful, and even lead to skin infections.
* Spreads Natural Oils: Brushing helps spread your dog’s natural skin oils through their coat, keeping it shiny and healthy.
* Lets You Check for Problems: While brushing, you can catch things like fleas, ticks, bumps, or cuts early on.
* Feels Good! Many dogs love being brushed. It’s bonding time and feels like a massage.
How Often Should You Brush?
That depends on the type of coat your dog has:
* Short-haired breeds (like Boxers or Pugs): 1–2 times a week.
* Medium-haired breeds (like Huskies or Labs): 3–4 times a week during shedding seasons.
* Long-haired breeds (like Goldens, Collies, or Doodles): Daily brushing is best.
Choosing the Right Brush
Not all brushes are created equal. Using the wrong one can be uncomfortable for your dog — or just won’t work well.
Here’s a quick guide:
Coat Type Best Brushes Tips
Short Coat Rubber curry brush or bristle brush Use gentle, circular motions
Double Coat (e.g., Huskies, German Shepherds) Undercoat rake or slicker brush Use an undercoat rake first to remove loose fur, then a slicker to smooth
Long Coat Slicker brush and metal comb Start at the ends and work your way in to avoid pulling
Curly/Wavy (e.g., Poodles, Doodles) Slicker brush and detangling comb Brush daily to prevent painful mats
Pro Tips for Brushing Success
* Be gentle: Don’t yank or pull, especially if there are knots.
* Start young: Get your pup used to brushing early.
* Make it positive: Use treats and calm praise to help your dog enjoy grooming time.
* Stay consistent: A few minutes a day can make a huge difference.
* During shedding season (spring & fall): Brush more often to keep fur under control.
