We all want our pets to look and feel their best, and that includes regularly brushing their fur. Much like the perfect dog collar or dog crate, finding the best dog brushes or combs is an important and highly personal decision based on your pet’s specific needs.Brushing your dog’s fur isn’t just about making your pup look pretty. Frequent brushing will cut down on your dog’s shedding—and the fluffy tumbleweeds collecting in the corners of your rooms.We’ve culled the best dog brushes and combs for different coat types to help you identify the most appropriate one for your pet.

Slicker Dog Brushes

Slicker dog brushes gently work through snarls and remove loose and dead hair. They usually have fine wires spaced closely together on a flat brush surface, with shorter teeth for shorter coats and medium or long teeth for medium or long coats.

Dog Pin Brushes

Dog pin brushes look similar to what you might use on your own hair. They usually have a rounded shape and wires with plastic balls on end. They can be useful for separating, stretching, and straightening hair after a bath.

Dog Deshedding Brushes

Deshedding brush won’t prevent or clear away mats, but it’s effective at gathering up dead and loose hair. Ideal for short-hair dogs, this style brush may also be used every few days on dogs with longer coats (such as Malamutes) during shedding season, in conjunction with a good slicker dog brush and comb.

Dog Combs

Metal dog combs are first-rate for tackling unruly coats. usually, we use a comb after brushing with a slicker dog brush. Start with the wider spaced teeth, and then move to the narrower teeth, making sure you comb every part of the dog, particularly anywhere there is friction. If you find a knot, go back with the brush to get any tangles out, and then recheck with the combs. It can help remove complicated tangles.

The right dog brush for you and your dog will make grooming more pleasant for both of you. When you find a brush that’s effective and comfortable to use, brushing Fido can evolve from being just a task to a bonding activity.