How to Brush Your Dog Based on Their Coat Type

Dogs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and of course, coat types. Different coats require different kinds of care. Some coats require more baths, different haircuts, and different ways of brushing.

Here is how to brush your dog’s hair based on their coat type.

Smooth Coat

A dog with a smooth coat is one that has short hair that lies close to the body. This coat type requires regular brushing and baths, but not as much as some other fur types. To brush a smooth coat, use a bristle brush and brush gently against the direction of the hair growth. To remove dander, use a fine-toothed comb or hound glove to keep the coat shiny. Then brush the hair again, this time going in the direction of the hair

Long Coat

Dogs with long coats will require daily brushing to prevent mats, especially during shedding season. Some long-coat dogs have a soft undercoat that needs to be brushed with a pin brush and a smooth bristle brush, while others who don’t have an undercoat will need to be brushed with just the pin brush.

Double Coat

Dogs with a double coat have a soft undercoat for insulation and a tougher topcoat that will repel water and dirt.

To brush a double-coat dog, start by using a pin brush and take your time to rake out any tangles. An undercoat rake can help get some of the more stubborn knots. Start by brushing outward from the skin and then with the lay of the fur on the topcoat to pick up any loose hairs. Then, take a wide-toothed comb to do the same to the undercoat. Finish by brushing the topcoat.

Wire Coat

Dogs with wire coats can be susceptible to tangles and need regular grooming with a slicker brush. Some dogs may need to be brushed every so often with a stripping comb that is run lightly along the dog’s back.

Curly Coat

Poodles and other curly-haired dogs have thick, soft curls that rest close to the body. They can have a tendency to mat together so regular brushing with a soft, curved slicker brush against the lay of the fur will keep the tangles away and keep the coat fluffy.

While every coat type has different ways to make brushing as effective as possible, as long as you brush your dog regularly, you should avoid any issues.