Brushing your dog regularly is essential to keep his skin and coat healthy. Tangled hair doesn’t allow the skin to breathe, which can lead to irritations and infections. Furthermore, it gives you a good chance to notice any issues such as cuts, lumps and tenderness, quickly. Brushing should be part of his daily routine, and the earlier you start doing this, the easier it will be for your dog to get used to it. For that, you will need a good dog brush. Having the right brush for the job will make it a stress-free experience for both you and your furry friend.
Different dog breeds require different types of brushes. It doesn’t make sense to use the same type of brush on a Poodle that you would use on a German Shepherd – their hair is simply different. Although there are many different shapes and sizes of dog brushes on the market, there are basically four different types.
Pin Brushes
This type of brush is the most popular of all and it is a good option when it comes to getting out minor tangles out of medium-longed haired dogs. Bristle brushes can have rubber or plastic tips, which makes them gentle on thick or curly coats. This explains why many use these as a first resort for minor knots and matts. They are generally very kind to your dog’s skin and are safe to use on most breeds.
Bristle Brush
These brushes are often combined with a pin brush because the two types go hand in hand. They are perfect for shorter coat dogs and a great option for ‘finishing off’ as they remove fine dirt and add shine to the coat. Brushing your dog with this brush can increase the oil production in his skin, which in turn, can help reduce excess shedding and improve his coat’s shine.
Slicker Brush
These brushes are made of fine, wire bristles which are normally angled in a certain way or have protective tips to reduce irritation of the dog’s skin. They are a good option for medium to long-haired dogs for removing matts and tangles, and loose hair from the undercoat. Generally, they work well but you will have to be careful with how much pressure you apply and brush in the direction of the coat.
Rubber Brush
These dog brushes are about the size of your hand and have rounded rubber knots at the end. Some models come in a glove format while others look more like a rubber block. Rubber brushes are an easy and effective way to remove loose surface hair and to massage your dog’s skin. Some dogs love being brushed while some can’t stand it. If your furry friend hates being brushed, a rubber brush can be a great option. When hesitating which type of brush you should use on your dog, ask your vet for suggestions.
