All pet owners are accustomed to witnessing tumbleweed clusters of dog hair pepper their homes, no matter the size or breed of their furry friend. This is why grooming is part in parcel of dog ownership.
Whether DIY-ing it or taking your pup to the professionals for a zhuzh, a thorough groom is essential for keeping your dog’s health and happiness in check.
For those trying to save a bit of cash, an at-home job may be best. In this case, you’ll need an excellent dog grooming brush to ensure the very best results for your canine companion.
Why is it important to groom my dog?
Grooming will prevent your dog’s fur from matting and will remove dead skin, hair and other general muck. The act of brushing your pup also stimulates the natural oils in their skin and fur, which keeps their coat looking glossy and healthy.
When should I start grooming my dog?
It’s important to introduce your pet to grooming when they are a puppy to ensure they aren’t anxious about being groomed in later life. Owners want to create a stress-free environment for their dog when they are groomed, which is helped by a regular routine and gentle handling.
How often does my dog need grooming?
- Short-haired, smooth-coated dog: at least once a week.
- Rough or long-coated dogs: every four to 12 weeks, but more regular grooming and clipping is required
- Wire-haired breeds (such as terrier types): these breeds may need ‘stripping’ rather than typical grooming as these dogs don’t shed hair as frequently as others
What are the best brushes to buy for at-home use?
There are ample options to choose from when searching for a grooming brush. This makes the search somewhat overwhelming. However, different brush types work better for different breeds and coat styles. The Blue Cross details the different models of grooming brushes below:
- Pin brushes: ideal for smoothing out small tangles and removing dead fur from both the coat and undercoat. The longer the pins on the brush, the better it is for dogs with longer, thicker coats
- Slicker brushes: these brushes have short, fine hairs on a flat brush and are suitable for removing knots from short to medium-coat breeds, or those with curly fur
- Rubber brushes: ideal for removing dead fur and massaging the skin to encourage natural oils to be released, which make a dog’s coat look healthy and glossy
- Grooming mitts: a useful tool for removing dirt and dead hair from short-coated breeds, but not recommended for dogs with medium to long-haired coats
- Undercoat rake or de-shedding tools: these brushes will gently remove the dead fur from a dog’s undercoat, while still brushing through the top coat and removing any dirt. These are particularly useful for dogs that moult frequently
- Bristle brush: these brushes are ideal for finishing off grooming and for quick maintenance brushes in between brushes
Vanessa Ali, founder of luxury dog groomers Hearts and Hounds, recommends Artero brushes. “They are really good, long-lasting brushes. They are gentle on the dog’s coat and are made by a well-known brand.”
As for general grooming tips, Ali says. “When you first get your dog, puppy or rescue, it’s good to introduce them to grooming straightaway. Slicker brushes are better for curly coats, while rubber brushes are good for shorter-haired breeds like pugs and French bulldogs. Detangling spray helps. A waterproof raincoat will also protect your dog’s fur from the rain.”
Discover the best dog grooming brushes and shop the edit below.
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Best dog grooming brushes at a glance:
- Best overall: Artero Dematting Slicker Large - £25, Amazon
- Best for long-haired breeds: Chris Christensen Big G Dog Slicker Brush - £72.94, Amazon
- Best for short-haired breeds: KONG ZoomGroom - £10.89, Amazon
- Best for dog and cat care: FURminator Dog and Cat Grooming Dual Brush - £18, Pets At Home
- Best for short undercoat grooming: Groomi Tool for Animals - £21.99, Amazon
- Best for massaging: Bamboo Dog Brush with Silicone Massager - £11.99, Amazon
- Best for a professional finish: Chris Christensen Dog Brush - £35.56, Amazon
Artero Dematting Slicker Large
Artero’s Dematting Slicker brush is suitable for long and curly coats. The expert-approved piece features an ergonomic handle to help smooth out hair in nooks and crannies, plus a semi-articulated metal flat head that gently grazes through your pup’s fur.
Buy now £25.00, Amaozn
Chris Christensen Big G Dog Slicker Brush
Best for: long-haired breeds
A pricier pick but one that will last forever, Chris Christensen’s Big G Dog Slicker Brush is designed with large, long-haired breeds in mind. The brush helps to remove tangles and has premium ‘comfort-glide’ bristles which are gentle on your dog’s skin. Enjoy an excellent grip as you treat your pooch to a luxurious makeover.
Buy now £72.24, Amazon
KONG ZoomGroom
Best for: short-haired breeds
Not only do KONG make great dog toys, but the brand is home to the beloved ZoomGroom. Available in pink and blue, the inexpensive brush is better for shorter coats and young pups who love a massage. It’s made from durable, comfortable rubber which won’t irritate the skin. Ideal for labradors, beagles and other short-haired pals.
Buy now £10.89, Amazon
FURminator Dog and Cat Grooming Dual Brush
Best for: dog and cat care
Have a cat and a dog at home? Kill two birds with one stone and get a brush that tackles both coats. Suitable for adult dogs and cats, the FURminator brush removes loose hair and tangles with ease. A non-slip handle and smooth bristles that help the topcoat shine give you and your pet grooming confidence at home.
Buy now £18.00, Pets at Home
Groomi Tool for Animals
Best for: short undercoat grooming:
An Amazon bestseller, the Groomi brush is a wide and shallow option for short-haired companions. Use yours for your dog, horse and cat and make the most of the three-for-one tool. Use on pets with hair under four inches in length and allow the pattern edge to remove dead hair without tugging, pulling or any stress whatsoever.
Buy now £21.99, Amazon
Bamboo Dog Brush with Silicone Massager
Best for: massaging
Perfect for bathing, this bamboo brush is a sustainable pick for eco-warriors. Suitable for all hair types, the silicone massager and natural bristles gently massage the dog’s coat, ensuring the grooming experience is a wholly paws-itive one.
Buy now £11.99, Amazon
Chris Christensen Dog Brush
Best for: a professional finish
Achieve a professional grade groom with a helping hand from Chris Christensen. This oval-shaped brush is designed for dogs with delicate coats. High-quality stainless steel pins with ground and polished tips promise a silky smooth groom for delicate dog coats, while an ergonomic wooden handle helps the owner take charge.
Buy now £35.56, Amazon
