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When we think of dogs that need to be frequently brushed, we often think of long-haired floofers. But short-haired dogs need regular brushing, too. Especially since they’re just as likely as long-haired breeds to develop skin allergies or pick up dirt and stickers. When picking out the best brushes for dogs with short hair, it’s a good idea to look for brushes that help distribute oils to condition the skin, as well as remove unwanted items and excess hair.
To clarify, by short-haired dogs, we mean dogs with straight hair, measuring an inch or less—like the hair you’d find on Rottweilers, Chihuahuas, Boston Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, and Pit Bulls. No matter the size, a good brushing goes a long way in keeping your short-haired dog happy and healthy. Plus, regular brushing sessions can be a calming bonding experience—keeping your pup gorgeous while you connect one-on-one.
Here are our top seven picks for the best brushes for dogs with short hair.
Hartz Groomer’s Best Combo Dog Brush
A soft bristle brush is good for moving around natural oils and adding shine to short coats. This brush is double-sided with stainless steel tips on one side, a great feature if your short-haired dog has a thicker coat. The pins on this brush are also rounded on the end, so they’ll give your dog a bit of a massage while removing loose hair.
Discover on Amazon Shop on ChewyFurminator Curry Comb Brush for Dogs
Short-haired dogs shed a lot more than one might imagine. While a Pit Bull might not shed as much as a German Shepherd, they’re still going to experience more shedding in the spring and fall as their coats adjust to the seasons. The FURminator curry comb makes grooming a breeze by doing most of the work for you—grabbing on to and removing loose hairs with ease. If your dog has a lot of hair, FURminator also makes a de-shedding brush specifically for short-haired dogs. A few passes with the razors embedded in this tool (far from your dog’s skin) will remove dead skin and hair and leave that short coat fresh and tidy.
Discover on Amazon Shop on ChewyGentle Pet Grooming Glove Brush
If hanging on to a brush handle is not your thing, glove brushes can work well, especially on short-haired dogs. The fingers of this brush help you get into hard-to-reach spots to ensure that dirt is removed and oil is distributed evenly. Giving you flexibility and control, this glove brush works for short-haired dogs of every size, from Chihuahuas to Mastiffs. They’re also easy to clean. Just throw them in the wash or rinse them off in the sink!
Discover on AmazonSleekEZ Original Deshedding Undercoat Brush
Some short-haired dogs have really thick coats. For these dogs, a hair rake can help you work your way through their short, dense tresses. Hair rakes are great during prime shedding season as they remove dead hair—lessening the amount you’ll find on your couch, rugs, pants…well, pretty much everywhere.
Discover on AmazonHERTZKO Self-Cleaning Slicker Pet Grooming Dematting Brush
Slicker brushes do exactly what they say they do—they make dog hair slick (aka shiny). This dog brush is a great option for removing hair and stickers, especially if your short-haired dog has a thick coat, is super active, or likes to roll in the dirt a lot. And the best feature? This brush is self-cleaning. With just a click of a button, the bristles retract back into the brush, removing all the hair.
Discover on Amazon Shop on ChewyVet’s Best Dental Finger Dog Toothbrush
A creative option on our list, these dental brushes can also be used to brush your dog’s hair. If you have a smaller or more delicate short-haired dog, finger brushes can be great for sensitive and hard-to-reach areas, like around the face and armpits. Some dogs are also a bit wary of brushing, so coming up with unique ideas to make them more comfortable is always a top priority. These brushes can help remove dirt and stickers comfortably—like a tiny massage. And they’re easy to wash and reuse!
Discover on Amazon Shop on ChewyBamboo Groom Palm-Held Brush
Made from bamboo, this sleek handcrafted brush offers a sustainable option. The ergonomic shape and elastic band make it easy to hold, while soft boar bristles gently remove loose hair and debris from short coats. Mimicking the way you would naturally pet your short-haired dog, this brush is also ideal for reducing grooming anxiety.
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