How to Use a Wide-Tooth Comb on Long-Haired Dogs

A wide-tooth comb is designed to gently untangle and smooth knots in long hair without pulling or causing breakage. Wide-tooth combs are popular when grooming long-haired dogs as they allow the groomer to work quickly and create a styled appearance with minimal effort. However, to groom the dog efficiently, you should work in sections rather than rushing through the process. Grooming a long-haired dog with a wide-tooth comb requires only the help of an assistant to control the dog and ensure her comfort.

Things You'll Need

  • Assistant
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Instructions

    • 1

      Begin combing at the shoulder on one side of a standing dog. If you have a difficult time keeping the dog standing, have an assistant place a hand under the dog's belly. Move the comb in short, slow motions through the dog's fur, working from the shoulder down to the paw. Do not press the teeth of the comb into the dog's skin; stop just before coming into contact with it.

    • 2

      Pull apart any mats you encounter in the dog's fur with your fingers instead of using the comb. When you have pulled the entire mat apart, gently run the comb through to smooth the fur. Continue combing as before.

    • 3

      Move to the dog's back after finishing the shoulder and front paw section. Comb from the spine to the bottom of the ribcage all the way back to the haunches. Comb the haunches from the top down, as you did with the shoulder. Always stop to untangle any mats. Never pull on tangles, as this can be painful.

    • 4

      Hold the tip of the dog's tail in your hand gently and comb the hair that hangs down.

    • 5

      Comb the dog's other side, working from the haunches forward to the shoulder.

    • 6

      Comb the dog's chest and neck carefully. Ask your assistant to hold the dog's head up by gently placing his hand beneath the dog's chin.

    • 7

      Smooth the hair on the dog's facial area last, keeping the comb away from the eyes. Most long-haired dogs' facial area requires little combing as the fur is often very fine.