What type of coat does your dog have? From registered pure-bred dogs to the most glorious mixed breeds, dog coats tend to fall into several distinct categories. There are tools designed for every coat type. Read on to find what grooming gear will be best for your companion's coat.
Curly Coats
The first breed that comes to mind when you think of curls is probably the Poodle. Some other curly-coated dogs are Bichon Frise, Spanish Water Dogs, Lagatto Romagnolo, and of course, many of the popular poodle mix dogs end up with dense curls. Invest in a quality slicker brush and a good Poodle comb, designed specifically for the poodle's coat, to maintain those lovely locks and prevent mats and tangles from forming. Use a coat spray to condition and to avoid coat damage while you work
Wire Coats
Many terriers (think Scottish Terrier, Wire Haired Fox Terriers, and such) sport hard coats designed to protect them as they hunt vermin in all sorts of terrain and weather. Sporting breeds like Wire Haired Pointing Griffons are other good examples. Interestingly, due to fascinating genetic combinations, some of the popular "doodle" mixes also end up growing a wiry coat. A slicker brush will help you get through the thick fur, all the way to the skin, to pull out dead hair and prevent mats from forming. Spritz with a coat spray to make the job easier and follow up with a sturdy comb to make sure the brush did its work.
Smooth Coats
Smooth-coated Dachshunds, Doberman Pinschers, and Dalmatians are easily recognized breeds to illustrate this category. Pet owners are often surprised to find that smooth-coated breeds shed a LOT. This is because the length of the hair growth cycle is short. To help prevent your home, clothes, and car from being frosted with the short hairs of your pet, short daily sessions with a bristle brush (boar bristle is best), or grooming mitt to remove loose hair and distribute the oils naturally present in the coat, and leave the coat with beautiful healthy sheen.
Double Coats
The glorious fluff found on Pomeranians, Australian Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Samoyeds, and many more require some dedication to keep in shape. Look for slicker brushes with long tines to reach from the skin to the tips of the coat. A rake can be handy, especially on the thick neck ruff and longer fur on the back of the rear legs. Finally, a comb with long and wide teeth to go over the pet and make sure every hair is in its place is a must-have. Don't forget the coat spray; it makes brushing more effective.
Long Coats
Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, Old English Sheepdog, and Maltese are examples of dog breeds that boast hair that grows to incredible lengths. These breeds are not heavy shedders, but they require dedicated daily brushing and combing to keep all that long hair from becoming tangled unless the hair is trimmed short.
Hairless Dogs
Let's not forget the wonderful hairless breeds! Chinese Crested, Mexican Hairless, and American Hairless Terriers don't require much in the way of brushes but do have specific skincare needs. You can soothe skin irritations with Colloidal Silver Spray or other coat sprays. It is important to use a sunscreen as well as Hairless Dogs are particularly susceptible to sunburn and skin cancer.
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