How often should I brush my dog?

Author: The Vet Shed  

We are often asked how often do I need to brush my dog and the answer is not the same for every dog

We all want our dogs to look good, feel good and smell good.    They rely on you for grooming to achieve all these 3 things.   
 We are so lucky to have so many wonderful breeds of dogs.   Depending on which one you choose to have as part of your family will determine your grooming routine.   

 

If your furry family member has a long or curly coat then you are going to be brushing daily to prevent matting and tangling.   Some of these long coated breeds include Bearded collies, Afghans, Old English sheepdog.  
 
Dogs with medium length hair such as border collies and golden retrievers will need brushing a few times a week to keep their coat maintained 
 
If your dog is short haired, trust me they still malt and you will be wanting to brush them at least weekly or your house and clothes will be covered in hair.   examples of short haired breeds are Staffies, Great Danes, Boston Terrier.  
 
We have different brush types depending on your dogs coat  - things to consider are length of coat,  the thickness and if they are undercoated 
 
Things to consider for different hair types 
 
Long Haired dogs  - choose brushes with longer bristles and pins and combs with long teeth 
Medium Haired dogs -  medium length bristle, pin brushes, or combs are great  
Dogs with undercoats - these guys you need to get the undercoat out in shedding time.  Look at furminators and undercoat rakes. 
Short haired - bristle brushes and if you havent tried grooming blocks then do yourself a favour as these are amazing at removing those little moulting hairs that get everywhere 

 

Brushing is important for many reasons.  

  1. Maintaining Coat Health: Regular brushing helps distribute natural oils throughout your dog's coat, keeping it healthy and shiny. This also reduces the chance of mats and tangles, which can be uncomfortable for your dog and potentially lead to skin irritation or infection. 

  2. Monitoring Skin and Coat Condition: Brushing allows you to check for any signs of skin problems such as lumps, bumps, ticks, or fleas. It also helps you notice changes in your dog's coat, which could indicate underlying health issues that might need veterinary attention. 

  3. Reducing Shedding: Brushing helps remove loose fur from your dog's coat, reducing the amount of hair they shed around your home. This is particularly important during shedding seasons for breeds that shed heavily. 

  4. Bonding and Socialization: Regular grooming sessions provide quality bonding time between you and your dog. It helps them become accustomed to being handled and touched, which can be beneficial for veterinary visits and other situations requiring physical contact. 

  5. Preventing Matting and Skin Issues: Dogs with long or curly coats are prone to matting, which can be painful and even lead to skin infections if left untreated. Regular brushing prevents mats from forming and allows you to address them early if they do. 

  6. Promoting Circulation and Massage: Brushing stimulates circulation in your dog's skin, which promotes overall skin health and can be relaxing for your dog. 

Overall, brushing your dog is not just about keeping them looking good; it's an essential part of their grooming routine that contributes to their comfort, health, and well-being. 

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