The 'correct' way to brush your dog and common grooming mistakes to avoid

Daily Record

12 hours ago

Shedding is a natural part of a dog's cycle but it often comes with uncomfortable skin irritation and allergies
Keeping your dog's coat spick and span can be a rather laborious task. And as late summer turns to autumn, many dog owners notice their homes filling with a little more fur than usual.
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Shedding is a natural part of a dog's seasonal cycle, but it's often accompanied by uncomfortable skin irritation and allergies that leave our pets scratching and licking.
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While many owners reach for a quick fix, an expert says the way you're brushing your dog could be making things worse.
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According to data from M&S Bank Pet Insurance, the average claim cost for a dog's skin condition is approximately £692.84, with specialist consultations costing even more. However, a dog health expert says that a few simple changes to your grooming routine and diet could prevent these issues before they even start.
"Many dog owners believe that brushing is just about tidying up their dog's coat, but it's a critical part of their overall health," says Simon Crawshaw, a grain-free dog food specialist at Hilltop Pet Food.
"Using the wrong tools or brushing at the wrong time can actually cause more harm, trapping dead hair and allergens against the skin, which can lead to painful irritation and infections.
The 'correct' way to brush your dog: A multi-step routine
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Simon explains that proper grooming is a multi-step process that goes beyond a simple brush-over.
Start with a de-shedding tool: Before you reach for a regular brush, use a tool designed to safely remove a dog's undercoat. This gets rid of the dead, loose hair that often causes mats and traps heat and allergens. This is especially important for double-coated breeds like Labradors and Huskies.
Use the right brush: Once the undercoat is thinned, use a slicker brush for dogs with longer hair or a bristle brush for those with shorter coats. This helps to distribute natural oils, stimulate the skin, and give the coat a healthy shine. The key is to follow the direction of the hair growth and avoid pressing too hard.
Address the diet: Grooming is only half the battle. A dog's coat and skin health starts from the inside.
"If a dog is on a poor-quality diet with low-grade ingredients, their skin barrier and immune system can be compromised," Simon explained.
"This can lead to excessive shedding, a dull coat, and an overreaction to seasonal allergens like pollen and grass."
By providing a high-quality, grain-free diet with a high meat content, you're giving your dog the essential nutrients and fatty acids needed to support a healthy coat and skin, making them less reactive to environmental triggers.
Common grooming mistakes to avoid
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Over-bathing
Bathing too often strips your dog's coat of its natural oils, which can cause dry, itchy skin. For most dogs, once every four to six weeks is plenty.
Brushing a wet coat
Never brush your dog's coat when it's wet. This can tighten knots, making them painful to remove. Always towel-dry your dog thoroughly beforehand.
Using the wrong tools
Not all brushes are created equal. Use a wire brush for some breeds and a rake for others. Make sure you have the right tool for your dog's specific coat type to prevent skin irritation.