Choosing the Best Grooming Tools for Every Coat Type:
Regular brushing is essential for keeping your dog’s coat healthy and free of mats, but using the wrong tool can make grooming less effective—or even cause discomfort for your pet. As a professional groomer, clients often ask what tools I recommend for them to take care of their pets between grooming appointments. These are my top choices, but if you ever have any questions, just ask! I’m always happy to help!
Smooth Coats (Boxers, Dalmations, Dobermans, Daschunds)-
Smooth-coated dogs have short, sleek fur that lies close to the body. While they don’t require frequent brushing, regular maintenance helps control shedding and keeps their coat shiny. The best tools include:
Rubber Curry Brush – Great for massaging the skin, stimulating natural oils, and removing loose fur. The Zoom Groom is the tool I recommend the most for smooth coated dogs! Can be used wet or dry.
Bristle Brush – Helps distribute oils and remove surface debris. Leaves coats looking very shiny and healthy looking.
SleekEZ – Useful for breeds that shed heavily, as well as cats. Also works on couches, car upholstery, and pet bedding!
Double Coats (Golden Retrievers, Huskies, German Shepherds, Corgis, Pomeranians)-
Double-coated breeds have a soft undercoat beneath a coarser topcoat. They shed seasonally and require consistent brushing to prevent matting and excessive shedding. Recommended tools:
Undercoat Rake – Removes loose undercoat fur without damaging the topcoat.
Slicker Brush – Helps remove surface debris and minor tangles.
Deshedding Tool – Be cautious with tools like the Furminator, or any tools that have a blade. Use sparingly, as overuse can damage the coat and cut the guard hairs, affecting regrowth.
Curly or Wavy Coats (Poodles, Bichons, Doodles)-
Curly-coated dogs need very frequent brushing to prevent matting and maintain their curls. Best tools:
Slicker Brush – Essential for preventing knots and matting. The Chris Christensen slicker brush may be pricey, but it’s worth every penny- I’ve had these brushes last for 6+ years of commercial use! For a lower-priced slicker that still does a good job, check out Paw Brothers brushes.
Metal Comb – Helps reach deep into the curls and separate hair. After brushing, use the comb to check for mats.
Dematting Tool – Gently removes mats without excessive pulling. Use with caution! This is a cutting blade and improper use can lead to injury. If there is excessive matting, do not attempt to cut the mats out at home. Please call a professional. The best way to tackle mats is to brush and comb before they form. Dematting causes coat breakage and can cause the hair mat up faster in the future.
Doodle Tip From a Pro! -
Brushing out curls straightens and fluffs the hair. However, if you want your Doodle to maintain a long, shaggy, wavy coat, regular brushing is still essential to prevent matting. To keep them both mat-free AND curly/wavy, thoroughly brush and comb all the way down to the skin, then mist the coat with water using a spray bottle. Finally, scrunch the fur and let it air dry—voilà! Mat-free waves!
Avoid getting a matted coat wet, as this can make mats tighter (think of it like attempting to untangle a wet shoelace!).
Wire Coats (Schnauzers, Most Terriers)-
Wire-coated dogs have a rough, bristly texture that requires specific grooming techniques to maintain their characteristic appearance. Recommended tools:
Slicker Brush – Keeps the coat tidy and removes loose fur. Useful for removing and preventing matting/tangles.
Stripping Knife – Used for hand-stripping to maintain proper coarse coat texture. This is best for owners who wish to maintain a hand-stripped coat at home between visits to the groomer. If you’re interested in having your terrier hand-stripped, I’d love to have a consultation with you! Please note, once a coat is clipped with a blade, it may become soft and unable to be stripped.
Metal Comb – Helps in checking for mats, and for neatening up the fur after brushing.
Silky Coats (Shih Tzus, Maltese, Yorkies, Lhasa Apsos)-
Silky-coated dogs have fine, flowing hair that requires gentle grooming to prevent tangling. Recommended tools:
Pin Brush – Helps keep the coat smooth and detangled.
Slicker Brush – Useful for preventing mats, especially behind the ears and under the legs.
Metal Comb – A must-have for checking for hidden tangles after brushing.
Final Tips
Brush daily or several times a week depending on your dog’s coat type and length.
Avoid overusing deshedding tools with blades, as they can damage the coat.
Regular grooming sessions help keep your pet comfortable and reduce shedding in your home.
The slicker brush and metal comb are the most versatile of all grooming tools, and a necessity for all breeds that are not smooth-coated. I use these on every medium/long-haired dog I groom!
For smooth coated dogs, you can’t go wrong with a rubber curry brush!
If you need professional guidance, I Shih Tzu Knot offers expert grooming for small dogs in the Brazos Valley and the Clear Lake area. Contact me today at 979-209-9474 to keep your pup’s coat in top shape!
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