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Whether your long-haired dog is mini or mighty, their long locks need regular attention. While daily brushing sessions don’t always have to be full-blown (pun intended), a little TLC each day will help deter pests from moving in and mats from forming. Plus, it’s a great way to build in focused bonding time with your dog.
We spoke with Dr. Kathryn Dench (MA VetMB), Chief Scientific Advisor at Paw Origins, to learn more about what to look for when choosing the best brush for long-haired dogs. From daily grooming sessions to post-bath brushing, our top brush picks have your furry friend covered.
Best for Puppies: Hertzko Bristle Brush
When you’re first introducing brushing to your puppy, gentle is best. “For puppies, it’s important to introduce brushing gently and positively,” Dr. Dench explains. “Start with a soft-bristle or gentle pin brush to accustom them to the sensation. Gradually increase the grooming time, and always provide treats and praise to create a positive association with the activity.”
This Hertzko brush has soft yet densely packed bristles that help trap dirt and loose hair on your puppy’s coat while redistributing their natural coat oils. The design includes a comfort grip and anti-slip handle that helps pet parents keep a tight hold on the brush while grooming wiggly puppies.
And whether you’re brushing your young pup or adult dog, Dr. Dench reminds us to always brush in the direction of hair growth to avoid causing pain or discomfort.
Key Features:
- Good for dogs of all sizes
- Helps remove tangles and eliminate loose hair and debris
- Singled-sided brush
Best for Detangling: HERTZKO Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush for Dogs
“Long-haired dogs typically require a combination of slicker and pin brushes,” says Dr. Dench. “Slicker brushes are excellent for removing tangles and mats, while pin brushes are gentler and suitable for general brushing.”
Slicker brushes like this one are useful because they can go deep into your dog’s coat to remove dead, stray hair that can cause tangles. “Long-haired dogs should be brushed at least three times a week to prevent mats and tangles,” explains Dr. Dench. “During shedding seasons, daily brushing is recommended. Start by gently detangling any knots with a slicker brush, then use a pin brush to smooth the coat and remove loose hairs.”
The slicker head on this brush is ideal because it isn’t too big, making it easy to use on dogs of all sizes. Its size makes it convenient for getting into harder-to-reach spots where mats are likely to occur with its fine-angled bristles. A bonus: the self-cleaning head empties hair with just the touch of a button.
Key Features:
- Made with an ergonomic and easy-to-grip handle
- Comb creates a massaging action that helps with circulation
- Designed with a push-button retraction to remove hair after brushing
Best Pin Brush: Chris Christensen Dog Brush
“The Chris Christensen Oval Pin Brush is another favorite for its gentle yet effective grooming capabilities,” Dr. Dench explains. A pin brush works well as a finisher, as it helps provide smoothing and shine to your long-haired dog’s lovely locks.
Made of beechwood, this brush offers a lightweight but durable design. The pins are also coated at the ends, so they massage rather than scratch the skin—helping to evenly distribute healthy oils.
“Brushes with stainless steel pins or bristles are generally best for durability and effectiveness,” says Dr. Dench. “Avoid brushes with hard plastic bristles, as they can be harsh on a dog’s skin and cause discomfort. Additionally, natural bristle brushes can be effective but may not be as durable for heavy-duty grooming.”
Key Features:
- Made with size 27 mm stainless steel pins that are ground and polished for comfort
- Lightweight, beechwood ergonomic handle
- Made in Germany
Best for Deshedding: FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool
During the spring and fall, long-haired dogs often go through periods of heavy shedding. “During shedding season, an undercoat rake or de-shedding tool can efficiently manage loose undercoat hair,” recommends Dr. Dench.
This brush is designed with a stainless steel, curved edge that can gently reach your dog’s undercoat to remove loose hair and debris. The manufacturer’s instructions recommend using it weekly to cut down on shedding. Once your grooming session is finished, this brush is easy to clean by pressing the button on the top that releases all the captured hair.
Key Features:
- Ergonomic handle
- Available in sizes small, medium, and large
- Good for dogs 8 weeks and older
Best Comb: SHINY PET Dog Comb
A comb is another type of brush you’ll want to have on hand with a long-haired dog. “A wide-toothed comb is great for combing out debris and tangles, especially after outdoor activities,” says Dr. Dench.
This comb is crafted with rounded, stainless steel teeth that help break up tangles and remove fur and debris. The ergonomic, no-slip handle makes it convenient for human hands to use and keep a grip while grooming your pup. If you’re new to grooming, the brush even comes with a complimentary ebook with information and tips.
Key Features:
- Designed with anti-scratch teeth
- Good for dogs and cats
- Combination spacing tooth design that’s gentle and helps detangle and de-mat
Best Undercoat Rake: FURminator Dog Grooming Rake
If your dog has an extra-thick or double coat, this rake brush is an excellent brush to have on hand. “For dogs with particularly dense coats, an undercoat rake can be invaluable for reaching the undercoat and preventing matting,” says Dr. Dench.
This brush features rotating metal teeth that help remove loose hair from your dog’s undercoat. It can be used daily to help brush out tangles and prevent mats. Its ergonomic handle is a nice addition that helps you keep your hold while gently brushing your dog’s coat.
Key Features:
- Best for dogs with dense or double coats
- It can be used with dogs and cats
- Rounded tips help prevent scrapes and scratches
Best for Bathtime: Safari Bamboo Pin & Bristle Combo Dog Brush
When it comes to bath time, you’ll want a medley of brushes for grooming during and after. “Post-bath, a slicker brush can help detangle wet hair, while a pin brush can smooth the coat as it dries,” says Dr. Dench.
This combo brush, along with a slicker brush, is an excellent option since it has both a pin and bristle brush to help smooth out your pup’s coat after using the slicker brush to remove tangles.
This brush works with every coat type and is gentle enough for puppies. The wire pins help remove loose hair and debris from your pup’s coat, while the soft bristles help redistribute natural oils and provide a smoothing, finishing shine.
Key Features:
- Designed with a bamboo handle
- Features wire pins and gentle bristles
- Works well with all coat types
How We Chose
The products featured here were selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing, a comprehensive look at customer reviews across a wide variety of retail platforms, and interviews with veterinary experts, including Dr. Kathryn Dench (MA VetMB), Chief Scientific Advisor at Paw Origins. We’re also guided by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated pets, who are never stingy with their feedback.
