Teach Your Clients How to Brush a Coat

Brushing and/or combing a dry coat is never recommended. Lack of hydration will make the hair brittle which can often cause breakage. It is also very hard on, and even painful, for a lot of pets.

Sometimes we get frustrated with clients who are not brushing at home, but maybe we need to give better direction so it isn’t such a negative experience for both client and pet. One of the things we can do to alleviate discomfort is to use a brushing spray. Any of our conditioners diluted 1:8 with water and put in a spray bottle, work very well for hydrating the coat and making it easier to run a comb through. Our H270 is also a wonderful product. You use very little H270: one or two sweeping squirts about 18″ over the dog is adequate. Let it settle on the coat and then comb/brush.

After you give them a brief demonstration, send home a small bottle of your preferred hydrating/brushing spray and the correct brush/comb for their dog’s coat.

How to Make a Brushing Spray at Home

1. Dilute any Iv San Bernard conditioner 1 part product to 8 parts water in a spray bottle.
2. Shake well before each use.
3. Mist the section you are about to brush, not the whole dog at once.
4. Or use H270 2 Phase Equalizer: one or two sweeping sprays from about 18 inches above the dog is enough. Let it settle, then brush.

Step-by-Step Brushing Instructions for Clients

1. Lightly mist a small section of coat with brushing spray.
2. Hold the hair near the skin with one hand so brushing does not pull.
3. Brush in the direction of hair growth, working in small sections.
4. Follow with a comb down to the skin to find hidden tangles.
5. Pay extra attention to behind the ears, armpits, collar line, belly and the back of the legs.
6. Keep sessions short and positive, with praise and treats.

Choosing the Right Brush and Comb

• Slicker brush: for most medium and long coats and for removing loose hair.
• Metal comb: to check that the coat is tangle-free down to the skin.
• Rake or undercoat tool: for double coats during shedding season.
• Soft bristle brush or mitt: for short, smooth coats.

Send clients home with a small bottle of brushing spray and the correct tool for their dog. Find options in our grooming tools.

How Often Should Clients Brush?

Short coats may only need weekly brushing, while long, curly and doodle coats often need brushing several times a week to prevent mats. Regular bathing with conditioner every 3-4 weeks keeps the coat hydrated so home brushing is easier. If mats do form, see clipper-free dematting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should you brush a dog’s coat when it is dry?

No. Brushing a dry coat makes hair brittle and causes breakage and discomfort. Mist the coat with a brushing spray first.

How do you make a dog detangling spray?

Dilute an Iv San Bernard conditioner 1 part product to 8 parts water in a spray bottle and mist the coat before brushing.

How often should I brush my dog at home?

Short coats may need weekly brushing, while long, curly and doodle coats often need brushing several times a week to prevent mats.