Anyone with a large dog knows that the amount of fur flying around the house is directly proportional to the size of the love we feel for them, right?
Here at home, Thor — my German Shepherd — is the official owner of the couch, the porch, all my black clothes, and sometimes even my pillow.
And while I adore his affectionate ways, dealing with all that shedding is no easy task.
At first, I didn’t think much about brushing. I figured a bath here and there was enough. But over time, I realized that brushing Thor wasn’t just about looks — it was about health and comfort.
Brushing helps control shedding, prevents matting, removes dirt, and even strengthens the bond between us.
If you’ve got a big dog and want to learn how to brush their coat the right way, I’ll share everything I’ve learned from real-life experience.
1. Choose the right brush
This was my first lesson: not all brushes work for every dog.
I currently have three types at home:
- The slicker brush (with fine metal bristles) — perfect for removing dead hair and dirt.
- A steel comb with wide teeth — great for detangling tricky areas like behind the ears or under the legs.
- A grooming glove — ideal for quick sessions or when Thor is a bit hyper. He doesn’t even notice he’s being brushed!
If your dog has short hair, a rubber brush might be better.
But for long or double coats (like Thor’s), slicker brushes are a game-changer.
2. Set a routine
In the beginning, I only brushed Thor when his fur looked messy.
Now, I brush him 3 to 4 times a week. During shedding seasons (usually fall and spring), I go up to almost daily.
It doesn’t have to be a long session. Just 10–15 minutes already makes a big difference — both for your dog and for your furniture!
3. Pick the right moment
I once tried brushing Thor when he was full of energy… big mistake. I learned the best time is when he’s calm, like after a walk or before bedtime.
Nowadays, he even rolls over asking for belly brushes.
And of course, there’s always a treat at the end — because motivation matters!
4. Focus on sensitive spots
Knots and mats always show up in the same places: behind the ears, belly, armpits, and the back of the legs.
These areas need special care. Start brushing there, using your fingers to gently loosen tangled fur, and then go in with the comb.
If it’s too tight, I apply a detangling spray — it’s saved us more than once.
5. Brush in the direction of hair growth
It may sound simple, but brushing against the fur’s direction can hurt or irritate your dog’s skin.
Always go with the grain, using smooth but firm strokes.
On Thor’s back legs, his fur grows diagonally — once I noticed that, things got way easier.
6. Make brushing a bonding moment
This is the golden tip! Brushing doesn’t have to be a chore. Make it something enjoyable with praise, affection, and even relaxing music.
Brushing time has become a ritual at our place. I sit in the yard with Thor, we relax together, I talk to him while brushing, and he always gets a special treat afterward.
The result? Less fur on the floor, more quality time, and a healthier, happier pup.
Brushing your large dog’s coat the right way doesn’t take professional skills — just some patience, love, and the right tools.
At first, it might feel like a chore, but once it becomes part of your routine, it flows naturally.
And trust me, your big dog will thank you — maybe not with words, but definitely with wagging tails and sweet looks.
If brushing isn’t a habit yet, give it a shot today. Your couch (and your vacuum cleaner) will thank you! 🐾🧼🐶
