How to brush your dog: a guide by coat type
The right brush for the right coat. How often to brush, which tools to use and how to deal with mats and shedding.
In this guide
Brushing is the most underrated part of grooming. It removes dirt and loose fur, spreads natural oils for a healthy shine, prevents mats and gives you a chance to spot ticks, lumps and skin problems early.
Know your brushes
- Bristle brush: for short, smooth coats; adds shine.
- Rubber curry brush / grooming mitt: great for short coats and for massaging out loose hair.
- Slicker brush: fine wire pins; removes tangles and loose fur in medium, long and curly coats.
- Undercoat rake: reaches into thick double coats to remove the shedding undercoat.
- Metal comb: for checking for tangles after brushing and for fine areas like the face and feet.
Short, smooth coats
Labradors, Beagles, Indies, Boxers, Dobermans
- Tools: rubber curry brush or mitt, then a bristle brush
- How often: once or twice a week; more during shedding
- Tip: short coats shed more than people expect. A rubber mitt during a cuddle collects a surprising amount.
Double coats
German Shepherds, Huskies, Golden Retrievers, Spitz
- Tools: undercoat rake, slicker brush, comb
- How often: two to three times a week; daily during heavy shedding ("coat blow")
- Tip: don't shave a double coat unless your vet advises it. The coat helps protect against both heat and sun.
Long, silky coats
Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers
- Tools: pin brush or slicker brush, metal comb
- How often: daily, or every other day
- Tip: brush in small sections, from the skin out. Comb through afterwards to find hidden tangles behind the ears, under the legs and on the belly.
Curly coats
Poodles, Bichons, poodle mixes
- Tools: slicker brush, metal comb
- How often: several times a week
- Tip: curly coats mat close to the skin. Regular professional trims keep things manageable.
Wiry coats
Schnauzers, many terriers
- Tools: slicker brush, comb
- How often: once or twice a week
- Tip: some wire coats are hand-stripped by groomers to keep their texture.
Dealing with mats
- Hold the fur at the base, between the mat and the skin, to avoid pulling.
- Gently work the mat apart from the outside in with your fingers or a comb.
- Never cut mats with scissors close to the skin; it's very easy to cut your dog.
- For tight or large mats, see a groomer.
Brushing and bath day
Always brush before a bath; water tightens tangles. After a bath with a detangling formula like 5-in-1 Shampoo, brush again as the coat dries. Finish with a light spritz of pet perfume if you like.
For Indie dogs specifically, see our Indie dog grooming guide.
Questions pet parents ask
How often should I brush my dog? +
Short coats once or twice a week, double and curly coats several times a week, and long silky coats daily.
Should I shave my double-coated dog in summer? +
Generally no. A double coat helps regulate temperature and protects the skin from sun. Ask your vet or groomer first.
How do I remove mats from my dog's fur? +
Hold the fur at the base and gently work the mat apart with your fingers or a comb. Leave tight mats to a groomer; never cut close to the skin.
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This guide is general information for pet parents, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, injured or you're unsure, please talk to your vet.
