How to Brush a Dog Properly

Brushing your dog seems simple — but there's a right way and a wrong way. Done correctly, brushing removes loose fur, prevents mats, distributes skin oils, and keeps the coat healthy. Done incorrectly, it causes pain, breaks the coat, and makes your dog dread grooming. Here's how to do it right.

Why Proper Brushing Technique Matters

Incorrect brushing (surface-only, wrong direction, too much pressure) misses the undercoat where mats form
Brushing a dry coat without detangler causes breakage and static
Brushing too aggressively causes "brush burn" — skin irritation from the bristles
Proper technique reaches the skin, removes dead undercoat, and stimulates circulation

Choose the Right Brush for Your Dog's Coat

Slicker brush: Swihauk Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush — works for most coat types; removes loose fur and detangles
Double-sided brush: 2PCS Double-Sided Pet Brush — one side for long coats, one side for short coats
Undercoat rake: Maxpower Planet Grooming Rake — for double-coated breeds to remove dead undercoat
Dematting comb: Poodle Dematting Fur Rake Comb — for working through tangles before brushing

Step-by-Step: How to Brush a Dog Properly

Prep the coat first. For long or curly coats, mist lightly with We Love Doodles Detangler Spray before brushing. Never brush a completely dry long coat — it causes breakage.
Check for mats first. Run your fingers through the coat to find any tangles or mats before brushing. Work through them with the dematting comb before using the slicker brush.
Work in sections. Don't brush the whole dog at once. Divide the coat into sections and work through each one completely before moving on.
Brush from the skin outward. Part the coat and place the brush at the skin level. Brush outward in short strokes in the direction of hair growth. This is the key technique most owners miss — surface brushing doesn't reach the undercoat where mats form.
Use light pressure. The brush should glide through the coat, not scrape the skin. If your dog flinches, you're pressing too hard.
Work systematically. Start at the neck and work toward the tail. Then do the legs, chest, and belly. Don't skip the armpits, behind the ears, and groin — these are prime matting spots.
Finish with a final pass. A final brush over the whole coat in the direction of hair growth gives a smooth, finished look.

How Often to Brush

Long-coated breeds: Daily
Double-coated breeds: 2–3 times per week; daily during shedding season
Short-coated breeds: 1–2 times per week
Curly/wavy coats (Poodles, Doodles): Daily

Signs You're Brushing Correctly

The brush reaches the skin, not just the surface
Significant loose fur comes out with each stroke
Your dog is relaxed and comfortable
The coat looks smooth and tangle-free after brushing

Final Thoughts

Proper brushing technique — working from the skin outward in sections — is the single most important grooming skill you can develop. It prevents mats, reduces shedding, and keeps your dog's coat and skin healthy between baths.

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