Brushing your dog is about much more than keeping them looking smart. Regular grooming plays an important role in your dog’s overall health and wellbeing.
Our dogs spend their days exploring parks, running through long grass, splashing in muddy puddles and curling up on the sofa afterwards. All of that adventure takes its toll on their coat. A regular grooming routine doesn’t just keep your dog looking their best-it helps them stay clean, comfortable and healthy throughout the year. Whether you have a short-haired Labrador, a fluffy Cockapoo or a long-coated Shih Tzu, understanding how often your dog should be brushed can make a real difference to their wellbeing.
Brushing removes loose hair, dirt and debris, stimulates the skin, distributes natural oils throughout the coat and gives you the opportunity to spot lumps, bumps, parasites or skin problems before they become more serious.
If dogs aren’t brushed often enough, it can lead to several problems, including:
- Painful knots and matted fur
- Skin irritation and infections caused by trapped dirt and moisture
- Parasites such as fleas and ticks going unnoticed
- Increased shedding around the home
- Overheating in warmer weather, particularly in thick-coated breeds
- Reduced circulation to the skin
- Discomfort when walking if mats form around the legs or paws
The right brushing routine depends on your dog’s coat type.
Short-haired dogs
Brush: Once a week
Breeds such as Labradors, Beagles, Boxers and Pugs benefit from a weekly brush to remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy.
Although short-haired dogs are less prone to matting, regular brushing still helps reduce shedding and removes dirt before it builds up.
If not brushed regularly: Loose hair accumulates, shedding increases, and dirt and dead skin can build up, leaving the coat looking dull.
Medium-coated dogs
Brush: Two to three times a week
Dogs such as Border Collies, Spaniels and Golden Retrievers need more frequent brushing to prevent tangles.
Pay particular attention behind the ears, under the legs, around the tail and on feathered areas.
If not brushed regularly: Tangles can quickly develop into mats, which pull on the skin and can become painful. Dirt and seeds can also become trapped in the coat.
Long-haired dogs
Brush: Daily
Breeds including Shih Tzus, Yorkshire Terriers and Lhasa Apsos require daily brushing to keep their coats knot-free.
If not brushed regularly: Mats can tighten close to the skin, causing pain, restricting movement and trapping moisture that may lead to skin infections. In severe cases, coats may need to be shaved by a groomer or vet to relieve discomfort.
Double-coated dogs
Brush: Two to four times a week (daily during seasonal moults)
German Shepherds, Huskies, Samoyeds and Akitas have dense undercoats that need regular attention.
An undercoat rake helps remove dead hair before it becomes compacted.
If not brushed regularly: Loose undercoat becomes trapped, reducing airflow through the coat and making it harder for your dog to regulate their body temperature. This can increase the risk of overheating in warm weather and encourage skin irritation.
Curly and wavy coats
Brush: Every day or every other day
Cockapoos, Labradoodles, Poodles and Bichon Frisés need frequent brushing because loose hairs become trapped within the curls rather than falling out naturally.
Use a slicker brush followed by a metal comb to ensure you’ve brushed right down to the skin.
If not brushed regularly: Mats can form surprisingly quickly and become extremely tight, making grooming uncomfortable and potentially causing sores beneath the coat.
Puppies
Introducing brushing from an early age helps puppies become relaxed about being groomed throughout their lives.
Keep sessions short, positive and rewarding, even if they don’t yet need much brushing. It will make future grooming—and trips to the groomer—much less stressful.
Choose the right grooming tools
Using the correct brush for your dog’s coat makes grooming quicker, more effective and much more comfortable for your pet.
At Hildreth’s Garden Centre, we stock a fantastic range of grooming products from top brands like Ancol, including:
- Pin brushes
- Bristle brushes
- Grooming combs
- Undercoat rakes
- Shedding tools
- Nail clippers
Whether you have a Labrador, Cockapoo, Border Collie or a long-haired companion, our knowledgeable team can help you choose the right grooming tools for your dog’s coat type.
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