Best Dog Brushes by Coat Type (2026) – Slicker, Bristle & Deshedding

Why Coat Type Matters for Brushing

Using the wrong brush on your dog's coat is like using a fork to eat soup — it doesn't work and can cause damage. Each coat type has specific needs:

• Short coats need gentle tools that remove loose hair without irritating skin
• Double coats need tools that reach the dense undercoat without cutting the topcoat
• Curly coats need detangling tools to prevent painful matting
• Long coats need gentle pins that glide through without breaking fine hair

Best Brushes for Short-Coated Dogs

Breeds: Beagles, Boxers, Dachshunds, Pugs, Great Danes, Pit Bulls

Short-coated dogs shed more than most people expect. The right tools:

### Rubber Curry Brush (Best Choice) A rubber curry brush massages the skin while loosening dead hair. Use in circular motions before bathing for maximum effect. Dogs love the massage sensation.

### Bristle Brush A natural or nylon bristle brush smooths the coat and distributes natural oils for a healthy shine. Use after the curry brush.

### Grooming Glove For dogs that hate brushes, a grooming glove lets you "pet" the loose hair away. Less effective than a curry brush but better than nothing.

Frequency: Weekly brushing is sufficient for most short-coated breeds.

For complete grooming setups, check our grooming kits. For the full grooming guide, read our dog grooming tools guide.

Best Brushes for Double-Coated Dogs

Breeds: Golden Retrievers, Huskies, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Corgis

Double-coated breeds have a dense, insulating undercoat that sheds heavily during spring and fall.

### Deshedding Tool (Best Choice) Stainless steel deshedding tools reach through the topcoat to grab loose undercoat without cutting. This is the single most effective tool for reducing household shedding — up to 80% less fur on your furniture.

### Undercoat Rake An undercoat rake with rotating pins is gentler than a deshedding tool and works well for dogs with sensitive skin.

### Slicker Brush A slicker brush removes surface tangles and debris. Use it after the deshedding tool for a smooth finish.

Important: Never shave a double-coated breed. Their undercoat provides insulation in both heat and cold.

Frequency: 2-3 times per week, daily during heavy shedding seasons.

Need the full breakdown? Read the complete grooming tools guide.

Best Brushes for Curly and Wavy Coats

Breeds: Poodles, Doodles, Bichon Frisé, Portuguese Water Dogs

Curly coats don't shed much but mat easily — and mats can cause skin irritation and infection if left untreated.

### Slicker Brush (Best Choice) A slicker brush with fine, flexible pins is essential for preventing and removing mats. Brush in sections, working from the ends toward the skin.

### Metal Comb After brushing, run a metal comb through the coat to check for hidden mats. If the comb glides through, you're done.

### Detangling Spray A leave-in detangling spray makes brushing easier and reduces hair breakage. Spray lightly before brushing.

Frequency: Daily or every other day. Curly coats mat quickly — consistency is key.

For all the tools in one purchase, browse our grooming kits.

Frequently Asked Questions