Regular brushing is the foundation of good grooming. It removes loose hair, spreads natural oils, prevents painful mats, and gives you a chance to spot lumps, parasites, or skin changes early.
Match the Brush to the Coat
- Short, smooth coats (such as Beagles or Boxers): a rubber curry brush or soft bristle brush works well.
- Double coats (such as Huskies or Golden Retrievers): an undercoat rake plus a slicker brush help manage shedding.
- Long, silky coats (such as Shih Tzus or Persian cats): a pin brush and a wide-toothed metal comb prevent tangles.
- Curly or wiry coats (such as Poodles or terriers): a slicker brush and comb are essential, and these coats often need professional trimming.
Brushing Technique
Always brush in the direction of hair growth, using gentle, steady strokes. Hold the skin steady with your free hand when working near sensitive areas. For long coats, use the line-brushing method: part the fur, brush a small layer at a time from the skin outward, and then move on to the next layer.
Dealing With Mats
Small mats can sometimes be worked loose with your fingers and a comb, starting at the tips and moving toward the skin. Never pull hard, and avoid cutting mats with scissors close to the skin, since it is easy to nick a pet’s thin skin. Severe mats are best handled by a professional groomer or veterinarian.
How Often Should You Brush?
Short-haired pets may need brushing once a week, while long-haired and double-coated pets often benefit from daily sessions, especially during seasonal shedding. Even five minutes a day makes a noticeable difference.
Make It a Pleasant Routine
Start with short sessions and reward calm behavior with treats and praise. Pets that associate brushing with positive attention are far easier to groom throughout their lives.