Types of dog combs and brushes
There are many different types of dog combs. The teeth can be long or short and set close together or far apart. When choosing a comb, always pay attention to whether the ends of the teeth are rounded. You don't want to scratch your dog when you comb it. Combs are used in dogs, for example, to remove tangles. It is preferable not to pull the entire tangle out at once because then you will also remove healthy hair. Instead, work slowly upwards from the bottom of the tangle and help with your fingers to untangle. Combs are also often used for dogs with a long or silky coat.
Rake
Rakes come in many shapes and sizes. For example, with a single or double row of teeth and with teeth that are far apart or close together. A rake is used to remove dead hair from the undercoat. They are therefore more suitable for dogs with long hair and an undercoat. For example, shepherds and golden retrievers usually require rakes.
Slicker Brush
A slicker is a brush with many curved metal hooks. It is also called a soft or universal brush. This brush is used to untangle tangles and remove dead hair. The slicker is best suited for the standard grooming of dogs with a long or thick coat. The idea is that you can hold the coat and comb it in the air. Otherwise you can damage the dog’s skin.
Pin brush
A pin brush consists of several straight metal pins. Sometimes these are covered with plastic. Make sure they are rounded at the top anyway. This brush is also used to remove tangles from the coat. However, it is one of the tougher brushes, making it more suitable for dogs with long hair.
Cleaning brush
A cleaning brush consists of soft synthetic or natural hair. It is usually used last on long-haired dogs, as it gives the coat a soft and shiny appearance. If you want to brush a dog with shorter hair, this brush is often best because it is soft.
Rubber brush
This brush consists of a rubber surface with rubber studs and is also called a terrier mat. It improves circulation and removes loose hair from dogs with a shorter coat. Please note that when used outside the moulting period in dogs with a short coat, you can accidentally pull out living hairs loose with this brush. This can stimulate shedding and cause your dog to lose hair all year round.
Furminator
This comb is made for dogs with a dense undercoat, such as golden retrievers. It is great for removing dead hair from the dog’s undercoat after a moulting period. The comb is especially suitable for breeds with short and medium hair. It doesn't get through really long hair well and can damage the coat. Comb the dog very carefully, do not scratch the skin and do not pull. It is also wise to only use the furminator during the moulting period. If you use it at other times, you can pull out too many live hairs and stimulate the molting. You run the risk of your dog losing its hair throughout the entire year. Take a critical look at the dog’s coat and skin after use, if both are not damaged, you can continue using it. When used properly, this comb can be very useful.
Flea comb
The flea comb is not used to style your dog’s coat. However, it doesn't hurt to check for fleas with this fine-toothed comb after detangling the dog’s hair. Flea eggs are white. You can distinguish them from skin flakes because flea eggs turn a reddish color when they get wet. The easiest way to check for flea eggs is to beat the comb on a wet piece of paper after brushing your dog. In addition to itching and flea allergy, dogs can also get tapeworms from fleas. These are passed on when the dog eats an infected adult flea.