Dog Grooming Tools

If you didn't already know, dogs go through shedding cycles according to changes in environmental temperature as well as exposure to sunlight. Indoor dogs tend to shed pretty much all year, though, because they're not really exposed to drastic temperature changes. Brushing can help in two ways: It decreases the amount of hair that ends up on your clothes or furniture, and it can also prevent skin parasites. (And let's be honest, both of these potential outcomes are pretty gross.) Admittedly, I didn't use to be very good at regularly brushing my dog, but my vet has since reprimanded me. So, I thought I'd include some of my favorite pet grooming tools below in case you're in the market for a new brush.

Image via The Barking Lot

For Long-Haired Dogs:

Bamboo Furbuster comb
Jeffers Pet
$15.99-33.99
This brush has interchangeable stainless steel blades that remove loose hair and undercoat, which will reduce shedding overall.

FURminator
Amazon
$34.99-$59.99
The FURminator has a cult following, for what seems to be good reason: The company claims the product reduces shedding by up to 90 percent. Apparently, it can also reduce "the amount of airborne elements that cause allergic reactions in many people."

For Medium- and Short-Haired Dogs:

GripSoft Pin/Bristle Brush
Doctors Foster and Smith
$9.99
This two-in-one brush helps remove excess/loose hair, minimizes shedding, and is also great for dogs that tend to get matted fur (eg Wheaten terriers, Maltese, Shi Tzus). The pin side helps to stimulate the skin, and the bristle side is gentle for dogs with shorter coats.

Four Paws Love Glove
Petstore.com
$7.19
A one-size-fits-all mitt, this tool removes excess and loose hair while gently massaging your dog. (Riley loves this one, naturally.) Even better, it can also be used to remove hair from furniture.

What's your favorite dog brush?