Should you brush or comb a dog first? - The Environmental Literacy Council (2025)

The question of whether to brush or comb your dog first is a common one for pet owners, and the answer isn’t always straightforward. The best approach depends on your dog’s coat type, its current condition, and what you’re trying to achieve with your grooming session. In most cases, brushing should precede combing. Brushing helps remove loose hair, debris, and tangles, making the combing process more effective and comfortable for your dog. Think of brushing as the preparatory step, while combing is for the finishing touches and addressing specific concerns.

Why Brush Before You Comb

Before delving into the nuances, let’s look at why brushing first is usually recommended. A good brush is designed to loosen dead fur and distribute natural oils across the coat. This process is crucial because it:

• Removes Loose Fur: Brushing effectively eliminates the bulk of dead hair, preventing it from matting and creating tangles.
• Prevents Matting: By removing loose fur, you reduce the likelihood of mats forming, especially in dogs with thick or long coats.
• Distributes Natural Oils: Brushing helps spread the skin’s natural oils, keeping the coat healthy, shiny, and moisturized.
• Prepares for Combing: Once the bulk of the loose hair is removed and the coat is somewhat smoothed, it becomes easier to navigate with a comb and identify areas that need extra attention.

Starting with a comb on a coat full of loose fur can lead to a frustrating experience for both you and your dog. The comb will snag on tangles and dead hair, potentially pulling and causing discomfort.

The Role of Combing

After brushing, a comb can be used to:

• Identify Knots and Tangles: Combs are excellent tools for finding small knots or mats that might have been missed during brushing.
• Remove Dead Coat: For double-coated dogs, a comb helps to extract the undercoat that brushing alone may not reach.
• Smooth the Coat: A fine-toothed comb can add a polished look to your dog’s coat after brushing.

Tailoring Your Technique to Coat Type

While brushing before combing is generally the best practice, the specific technique and tools needed will vary based on your dog’s coat type:

Double-Coated Breeds

Dogs like Huskies, Golden Retrievers, and Poodles have a thick undercoat and a topcoat. For these breeds, it’s crucial to:

1. Start by brushing in the direction of hair growth to remove loose topcoat fur and debris.
2. Use an undercoat rake or a suitable brush to work gently to remove the dead undercoat.
3. Use a comb to carefully work through any tangles and remove any remaining loose fur, paying close attention to areas prone to matting like the armpits and behind the ears.
4. If needed, use an undercoat rake to further remove loose undercoat fur.

Flat-Coated Breeds

Dogs like Labrador Retrievers and Italian Greyhounds have short, flat coats. For these breeds, a brush is often sufficient. You can:

1. Brush in the direction of the hair growth with a bristle or slicker brush.
2. Use a comb to check for any hidden tangles or to add a smooth finish to the coat.

Long-Haired Breeds

Dogs like Shih Tzus and Yorkshire Terriers have long coats that require meticulous care. You should:

1. Brush thoroughly with a slicker brush or pin brush, starting with the areas that tend to mat easily.
2. Use a comb to gently detangle any knots, working from the tip of the hair up to the root.
3. Finish with a fine-toothed comb to remove any remaining loose hairs and smooth the coat.

Curly-Coated Breeds

Dogs with curly coats like Poodles or Bichon Frises require unique attention:

1. Brush with a slicker brush or pin brush to loosen dead fur and prevent matting.
2. Use a wide-toothed comb to work through the coat, detangling carefully and thoroughly to avoid painful pulling.
3. Regular grooming is vital for these breeds to prevent severe matting.

General Grooming Order

Beyond brushing and combing, here’s a general order for at-home dog grooming:

1. Prepare Your Supplies: Gather your brushes, combs, nail clippers, shampoo, towels, and any other necessary items.
2. Brush Fur: Start with brushing to remove loose fur and prepare the coat for combing and cleaning.
3. Brush Teeth: Clean your dog’s teeth with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste.
4. Trim Nails: Safely trim your dog’s nails to prevent overgrowth.
5. Shampoo and Rinse: Give your dog a bath using a dog-friendly shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing.
6. Clean Ears: Clean your dog’s ears to remove excess wax and prevent infections.
7. Dry and Brush Fur: Dry your dog completely with a towel or dryer, then brush again to fluff the coat.
8. Clip Fur: If needed, trim your dog’s fur, especially around the face and paws.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What type of brush should I use?

The best brush depends on your dog’s coat type. Slicker brushes are good for removing mats and tangles, bristle brushes are ideal for short-coated breeds, and pin brushes are suitable for longer or thicker coats. Undercoat rakes are great for double-coated breeds.

2. Is it better to brush my dog wet or dry?

It is recommended to brush your dog when their coat is dry. Wet hair can make mats worse and harder to remove.

3. How often should I brush my dog?

You should brush your dog every couple of days, regardless of coat length. During shedding season, more frequent brushing may be necessary.

4. Can I overbrush my dog?

Yes, overbrushing can deplete natural oils, making the coat dry and brittle. Stop if you see signs of skin irritation.

5. How do I know when to stop brushing?

Stop brushing when you can no longer pinch out a tuft of hair or when you are no longer pulling out much fur.

6. What’s the first rule of grooming?

The most important rule is to train your dog to cooperate calmly with the grooming process. It’s essential to do it frequently and keep it a positive experience.

7. Should I use a comb on my dog’s tail?

Yes, be sure to groom around the base of the tail to ensure mats don’t form.

8. Why does my dog keep sitting on his bum after grooming?

This can be due to irritation from clippers, or because they are feeling scared or uncomfortable during or after the grooming process.

9. What do I do with the hair after brushing?

Collect the fur and turn it into yarn, felt, or stuffing. You can also use it in your garden or compost bin.

10. How do I get my dog used to brushing?

Start with short sessions, making them a positive experience by using treats and praise.

11. What’s the purpose of an undercoat rake?

Undercoat rakes are designed to remove loose undercoat fur from double-coated breeds, which reduces shedding and prevents matting.

12. Is a FURminator tool safe for my dog?

Use the FURminator gently without applying too much pressure. Avoid overusing it on one spot to prevent skin irritation.

13. Does brushing reduce shedding?

Yes, regular brushing helps reduce shedding by removing loose dead hair before it ends up on your furniture.

14. Can I use the same brush for all dogs?

No, the type of brush should be tailored to your dog’s coat type for the best results.

15. What if my dog has lots of tangles and matting?

Use a detangling spray and work gently with a comb or slicker brush. If the matting is severe, it’s often best to seek professional grooming assistance.

By understanding the importance of both brushing and combing, and by tailoring your approach to your dog’s specific needs, you can keep their coat healthy and comfortable. Remember, patience and consistency are key to making grooming a positive experience for your furry friend.