There are many different types of dog brushes available on the market, but the most common are slicker brushes, pin brushes and bristle brushes. Slicker brush is best for dogs with dense coats, as they help to remove mats and tangles. Slicker brush perfect option for shedding coat.

It's generally recommended to brush your dog's coat when it is dry. Brushing a wet coat can potentially cause more tangling and matting, especially in long-haired breeds. Wet hair is more prone to breakage, and brushing may be less effective in removing loose hair and preventing mats.

Can brushes hurt dogs? No, unless you dig the brush too deep into the dog's skin, or continually brush the same area too many times. In cases of over brushing brush burn can appear but this is in an extreme case and rare. Signs of brush burn include irritated, reddened skin, always contact a vet if in doubt.

"Dogs with thick or curly hair may benefit from a pin brush, which has longer bristles to reach the undercoat and remove loose fur," says Dr. Matejka. There are also options with soft bristles like the Hartz Groomer's Best Combo Dog Brush that help smooth the coat and distribute natural oils in your pet's hair.