Tips for ideal grooming

Choosing the right brush is essential for effective dog grooming. Different coat types require specific brushes to properly care for your dog’s coat and prevent matting. Whether it’s a slicker brush for detangling or a deShedding tool for reducing loose hair, selecting the appropriate tool will ensure optimal grooming results and keep your dog’s coat healthy and well-maintained.

• Long, thick coats: Dogs with long, thick coats, such as Border Collies and Cocker Spaniels, require brushes or combs with long, rounded teeth. These tools gently detangle the fur without causing damage, effectively loosening knots and leaving the coat smooth and manageable. Regular use helps maintain a healthy, supple coat and prevents matting.
• Wire-haired breeds: For dogs with rough coats, such as rough-haired Dachshunds or Terriers, brushes with shorter, stiffer teeth are ideal. These brushes effectively detangle the coat while preserving its natural texture, ensuring a healthy, well-maintained appearance without softening the fur.
• Thick undercoat: Dogs with a thick undercoat, like Spitz or Bernese Mountain Dogs, require a coarse dog brush or a specialized Slicker Brush. These tools are designed to remove loose hair, tangles, and mats, helping to maintain a healthy coat while preventing excessive shedding and discomfort.

An excellent example of a versatile and effective grooming tool is the FURminator® Dual Grooming Brush. This 2-in-1 brush combines two types of brushes in one product: one side features sturdy wire pins for detangling, while the other side has soft boar bristles to add shine to the coat. Suitable for all coat types, the double brush ensures thorough grooming without irritating the skin.
For targeted coat care and effective tangling removal, we also recommend the FURminator® Slicker Brush. Available in sizes S (small) and L (large), this brush effortlessly removes tangles and loose hair, leaving the coat smooth, shiny, and well-maintained.

For many dogs, brushing can be a stressful experience at first. That’s why it’s important to gently introduce your dog to grooming, ensuring it becomes a relaxing and enjoyable routine. The aim is for your dog to associate brushing with a positive experience and to find the touch soothing.
If your dog is reluctant to have a grooming session, you can learn more about how to handle this in our article ‘Help, My Pet Doesn’t Like Being Groomed!’.

Coconut Oil is a fantastic household remedy for your dog’s coat. It moisturizes, softens, and adds shine to the fur while also helping with dry skin and itching. Plus, it’s safe to lick and can be used as a healthy food supplement.

Apple Cider Vinegar is excellent for skin care, as it helps maintain the coat’s natural pH balance. When diluted with water (3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to 1 litre of water), it works as a natural cleanser with antibacterial properties. You can regularly spray this mixture on your dog's coat to keep it clean and fresh.

The right diet is essential for your dog’s coat care. Poor nutrition can lead to a dull, lacklustre coat, as it may lack vital nutrients needed for healthy skin and fur. A balanced diet is the foundation of a shiny, vibrant coat. Make sure to include the following key ingredients in your dog’s food:

• Proteins: Adequate protein intake is essential for your dog to maintain strong hair structure and healthy growth. Keratin, a key protein, plays a vital role in ensuring hair strength and resilience.
• Essential fatty acids: Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are crucial for strengthening the skin and improving hair structure. Since dogs cannot produce these fatty acids themselves, so they must be provided through their diet.
• Vitamins: Biotin (vitamin H), along with vitamins A, B, and E, are vital for coat health. They help promote hair growth, support skin renewal, and contribute to a shiny, healthy coat.
• Minerals and trace elements: Zinc, calcium, and copper are essential for strengthening hair roots, preventing hair loss, and promoting overall skin health.

High-quality food that contains all these essential nutrients is key to maintaining a shiny coat. Special dietary supplements, such as brewer’s yeast, can also be beneficial as they provide additional vitamins and minerals. However, it's important that any supplements are only introduced in consultation with your vet.
A well-balanced diet forms the foundation for both the health and beauty of your dog’s coat.

Stress is one of the most common causes of a dull dog coat. Life changes such as moving to a new home, going on vacation, or the arrival of a new family member can raise your dog's stress levels. Since the skin is often seen as a reflection of emotional well-being, stress can directly affect your dog’s coat. Create quiet areas for your dog to relax and ensure a good balance of activity and rest to promote both wellbeing and coat health.

Parasites like fleas, ticks, or yeast infections can also lead to a dull coat. These are often accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, hair loss, dandruff, or redness. If your dog shows these signs along with a dull coat, it’s best to consult a vet for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include special shampoos or medications.

A dull coat can also signal underlying health issues. Hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid problems, adrenal hyperfunction, or changes following spaying or neutering, can affect your dog's coat condition. Additional symptoms, like changes in appetite, excessive thirst, or fatigue, may indicate a more serious illness. If these signs are present, it’s important to seek veterinary advice to diagnose and treat the underlying cause.

A healthy, shiny coat is a sign of your dog’s overall wellbeing. By providing proper care, a balanced diet, and a stress-free environment, you can help maintain a beautiful coat. However, if problems arise, early consultation with a vet will allow for targeted treatment, ensuring your four-legged friend stays healthy and happy both inside and out.