How to Brush a Dog's Coat

Your dog is your best friend so you want to make sure he looks his best. Giving him a good brushing improves his coat and makes it shine. Follow these steps and everyone will think you take your dog to a groomer every day.

Things You'll Need

  • Leash
  • Dog brush
  • Dog comb
  • Conditioning spray
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Pick your brush based on your dog's coat. Long haired dogs need a pin brush that will painlessly get rid of loose hairs and also get all the way down to the skin. Use a stiff natural-bristle brush for short haired dogs, then a soft-bristle brush to distribute natural oils to the hair.

    • 2

      Put small dogs on a table and large dogs on the floor. Use a leash if the dog will not stay still.

    • 3

      Start on one side and brush from front to back. Brush against the coat to fluff the hair up. Start with a small section, brush down one side and then the other.

    • 4

      Work the brush from the tail to the head once you finish the initial brushing. Brush in the same direction of the coat this time.

    • 5

      Use a spray coat conditioner if you find any mats within the fur. Spray the conditioner directly on the mat, let it sit for a couple of minutes and use a wide-toothed comb to untangle it. Work from head to toe with the comb to smooth the coat.