Finding the Best Dog Hair Brush for Your Pet’s Coat
Share
Keeping your dog’s coat clean, shiny, and free of tangles isn’t just about looks — it’s essential for their health and comfort. With so many brushes and grooming tools on the market, finding the best dog hair brush can feel overwhelming. Different breeds, coat types, and shedding levels all play a part in what works best.
At Total Pet Supplies, we’ve tested and reviewed some of the most popular dog brushes to help Australian pet owners pick the right one. Whether your furry mate has a short, smooth coat or long, fluffy locks, we’ll help you choose a brush that keeps them looking their best.
Why Regular Brushing Matters for Every Dog
Brushing your dog isn’t just about removing loose hair — it’s a full-body care routine that promotes better skin health, prevents matting, and helps you spot early signs of irritation or ticks.
Benefits of Regular Grooming
-
Reduces shedding: Frequent brushing captures loose fur before it ends up on your couch or clothes.
-
Prevents tangles and mats: Especially in long-haired breeds like Golden Retrievers and Border Collies.
-
Improves coat shine: Brushing distributes natural oils evenly through the coat.
-
Strengthens your bond: Regular grooming helps build trust and comfort between you and your pet.
-
Early health detection: You can spot lumps, ticks, or skin irritation early.
Regular grooming keeps your dog not only looking great but feeling great too.
Understanding Different Dog Coat Types when selecting the Best Dog Hair Brush for your pooch
Before buying a brush, you need to understand your dog’s coat type. Each type benefits from different tools and techniques.
1. Short and Smooth Coats
Breeds like Beagles, Boxers, and Dalmatians have sleek, low-maintenance coats. They don’t shed excessively, but dead hairs still build up over time. A rubber curry brush or bristle brush works perfectly for removing loose hair and massaging the skin.
2. Medium Coats
Border Collies, Labradors, and Australian Shepherds fall into this category. They need a slicker brush or pin brush to remove tangles, especially during shedding season.
3. Long and Double Coats
If you own a Samoyed, Golden Retriever, or Husky, you’ll need a de-shedding tool or undercoat rake. These breeds have thick undercoats that trap loose hair and form mats without regular grooming.
4. Curly or Woolly Coats
Poodles, Cavoodles, and Labradoodles have coats that can easily mat. The best dog hair brush for them is a slicker brush combined with a comb for fine detangling.
The Best Dog Hair Brush Types in Australia
Here’s a look at some of the top-rated brushes available now at Total Pet Supplies— each one selected for effectiveness, comfort, and durability.
1. Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
Perfect for removing tangles, mats, and loose fur from all coat types, especially medium to long hair.
Why it’s great:
-
Fine wire bristles gently remove knots without scratching skin.
-
Self-cleaning button makes it easy to eject collected hair.
-
Comfortable, non-slip handle ideal for longer grooming sessions.
Best for: Cavoodles, Golden Retrievers, Spaniels, and other long-haired breeds.
2. Rubber Grooming Glove
Turn petting time into grooming time. These gloves use soft rubber tips to lift dirt, dander, and loose fur.
Why it’s great:
-
Dogs love the massage-like feel.
-
Works well for short coats or nervous pets who dislike traditional brushes.
-
Easy to clean — just rinse under water.
Best for: Beagles, Bulldogs, and other short-haired breeds.
3. Undercoat Rake for Shedding Dogs
Designed for heavy shedders, this rake penetrates thick undercoats to remove trapped hair before it mats.
Why it’s great:
-
Dual-row stainless steel teeth for deep grooming.
-
Reduces shedding up to 90%.
-
Ideal for seasonal coat changes.
Best for: Huskies, German Shepherds, and Malamutes.
4. Pin and Bristle Combo Brush
Two brushes in one — pins for detangling and bristles for shine.
Why it’s great:
-
Great for multi-breed households.
-
The pin side removes loose hair, while the bristle side smooths and polishes.
-
Lightweight and ergonomic for easy use.
Best for: Labradors, Collies, and Retrievers.
5. Dematting Comb
For dogs prone to tangles, this comb has sharp but safe edges that slice through mats gently.
Why it’s great:
-
Reduces pulling and pain during grooming.
-
Safe for sensitive skin.
-
Works well with leave-in detangling sprays.
Best for: Poodles, Cavoodles, and long-haired mixed breeds.
How Often Should You Brush Your Dog?
Brushing frequency depends on coat type and shedding patterns.
| Coat Type | Brushing Frequency | Recommended Brush |
|---|---|---|
| Short | 1–2 times per week | Rubber brush or grooming glove |
| Medium | 2–3 times per week | Slicker or pin brush |
| Long or Double | Daily or every other day | Undercoat rake or dematting comb |
| Curly | Every 1–2 days | Slicker brush + comb |
Regular brushing also reduces the need for professional grooming and keeps your home cleaner.
Tips for a Stress-Free Grooming Session
If your dog gets anxious during brushing, try these proven tips:
1. Start Slow
Introduce the brush gradually. Let your dog sniff it before brushing.
2. Use Treats and Praise
Reward calm behaviour with small treats. Positive reinforcement makes grooming enjoyable.
3. Choose the Right Time
Brush when your dog is relaxed — after a walk or meal is ideal.
4. Avoid Pulling
If you hit a knot, hold the base of the hair to reduce pulling pain.
5. Keep Sessions Short
Five- to ten-minute sessions are better than long, stressful ones.
By creating a calm grooming routine, your pet will learn to associate brushing with love and comfort.
Common Brushing Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best dog hair brush can’t do its job if used incorrectly. Avoid these pitfalls:
-
Over-brushing: Can irritate skin or cause bald patches.
-
Using the wrong brush: Always match the brush to the coat type.
-
Skipping the undercoat: Leads to matting and overheating.
-
Not cleaning the brush: Dirty brushes spread bacteria and oils.
Regular maintenance of your tools is as important as grooming itself.
When to Visit a Professional Groomer
While brushing at home is crucial, some dogs need professional grooming every few months.
Signs it’s time for a groomer:
-
Thick mats that can’t be removed safely at home.
-
Excess shedding despite regular brushing.
-
Persistent skin odour or buildup.
-
You’re unsure how to trim sensitive areas like paws or ears.
A good groomer can also recommend brushes and shampoos suited to your dog’s specific coat.
Keeping Your Dog’s Coat Healthy Year-Round
To complement regular brushing, maintain a healthy grooming routine that includes:
-
Balanced diet: Omega-3 fatty acids promote healthy skin and shiny fur.
-
Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks with dog-safe shampoo.
-
Hydration: Always ensure access to fresh water.
-
Parasite control: Regularly check for fleas or ticks.
Consistency is key. Healthy skin leads to a healthy coat — and brushing is the foundation of both.
Where to Buy the Best Dog Hair Brush in Australia
You don’t need to search all over — you’ll find the best dog hair brushes right here at Total Pet Supplies
We stock a wide range of premium grooming tools made for Aussie dogs and their owners — from slicker brushes and de-shedding tools to self-cleaning combs and rubber gloves. Whether you’re grooming a big fluffy Malamute or a sleek Staffordshire Terrier, we’ve got the right gear to keep them looking and feeling amazing.
Plus, every product is tested for comfort, durability, and pet safety — because at Total Pet Supplies, your pet’s wellbeing comes first.
Final Thoughts on the Best Dog Hair Brush for your Dog.
Finding the best dog hair brush isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. It depends on your dog’s coat, lifestyle, and comfort level. But with the right tools and routine, brushing becomes less of a chore and more of a bonding experience.
From self-cleaning slicker brushes to undercoat rakes for heavy shedders, every brush has its place. Start with gentle strokes, reward your pet, and make grooming a positive part of their life.
Explore our full range of grooming products at Total Pet Supplies— and give your furry friend the care they deserve.