Brushing Basics and Tools
Regular bathing will do a lot to remove excess hair, rejuvenate skin, and eliminate odors, but frequent brushing is also a must. It promotes blood circulation and new hair growth. A complete canine grooming session involves brushing and combing the coat; checking the skin for signs of itchiness, parasites, or injuries; cleaning the eyes and ears; and taking care of the nails.
Grooming can be a wonderful time for you to bond with your new pup. By creating a grooming routine, your pup will learn to expect and even enjoy the time with you. Start by just gently using a soft brush or cloth to rub over your pup's back. If she resists, try a few different methods to calm her.
Use the following table to keep track of what your dog responds to. Try the various methods and then mark if the response is positive or negative.
Method |
Response (Positive or Negative) |
Speaking in a positive, high-pitched voice |
|
Giving treats |
|
Petting or rubbing on head |
|
Petting or rubbing on body |
|
Petting or rubbing on belly |
|
Brushing lightly |
|
Brushing with some pressure (massage-like) |
If you have a longhaired pup, try to do just a little grooming every day. That way the pup isn't bored, and you stay on top of any tangles or mats. If you are not willing to take care of a long coat, such as that on a Shih Tzu, you should make the commitment for regular grooming or clipping appointments with a professional groomer.
Your Tool of Choice
Different types of coats require different types of brushes and combs. In fact, your dog might even need a different brush in the summer than in the winter. The following chart will guide you as you make the right brush or comb purchase.
Type of Brush or Comb |
Recommended Use |
Slicker brush |
This brush has fine wire bristles and is especially useful for removing mats and tangles. |
Pin brush |
This is a wire-pin brush with or without rubber-tipped ends. It's good for dogs with medium to long hair and those with silky, curly, or wooly coats. Flexible pin brushes are also good for pets with thin coats and/or sensitive skin. |
Bristle brush |
This can be used on all types of coats and is best used for finishing touches after other brushes are used. This is great for small dogs and dogs with sensitive skin. |
Curry brush |
Also known as a hound mitt or glove, this brush has rubber nubs that massage the skin and loosen excess hair. It will usually have a strap to help you keep a firm grip when brushing. This is good for most shorthaired dogs. |
Shedding or dematting comb |
This helps break a mat into manageable sections so they can be combed through. Use this before using your brush of choice. |
How Often?
Simply to keep shedding at a manageable level, most dogs should be brushed daily. Depending on your dog's coat type, size, and lifestyle, grooming can take as little as five minutes to as much as 20 or more minutes each day.
Among the breeds that shed heavily are German shepherds, Dalmatians, Labrador retrievers, and pugs. They have coarse hairs that weave themselves into fabrics and are difficult to remove. By brushing daily, more hair goes onto the brush and into the trash instead of floating off onto furniture and clothing. If your shorthaired dog doesn't shed heavily, a weekly brushing is sufficient.
