The Guide to Brushing Before Bath Time: Why It Matters & How to Do It Right

Bath time isn’t just about keeping your pet clean—it’s a chance to strengthen your bond while ensuring their coat and skin stay healthy. But did you know that brushing before a bath is just as important as the bath itself? Taking a few minutes to groom your pet beforehand not only makes washing easier but also prevents discomfort, tangles, and excess shedding.

If you’ve ever struggled with matting, excessive hair in the tub, or a pet that seems to get dirtier faster, a proper pre-bath brush-out could be the solution. Let’s dive into why this step is essential and how to do it effectively.

Why You Should Always Brush Your Pet Before Bath Time

Many pet parents assume that brushing is just for keeping fur neat and tidy, but it plays a much bigger role in their overall health and hygiene. Here’s why brushing before a bath is a must:

✅ Removes Loose Hair & Reduces Shedding

Bathing a pet with a loose, unbrushed coat can lead to a mess—hair clogs in the drain, floating fur in the water, and excessive shedding after the bath. Brushing beforehand removes dead hair, helping your pet dry faster and leaving less fur around your home.

👉 For pets that shed heavily, try the Furminator DeShedding Tool to reduce shedding by up to 90%!

✅ Detangles & Prevents Matting

Wet fur makes tangles worse, turning small knots into tight, painful mats that are difficult to remove. Brushing before the bath gently loosens these knots, making the washing process much more comfortable.

👉 For long-haired pets prone to tangles, the Mikki Ball Pin Slicker is an excellent option, designed to detangle without scratching sensitive skin.

✅ Stimulates Healthy Skin & Coat

Brushing distributes your pet’s natural oils throughout their coat, keeping fur shiny and skin moisturised. It also increases circulation, promoting better coat health and reducing dry, flaky skin.

👉 For pets with thick undercoats, consider the Mikki Shedding Comb, which reaches deep into the coat without irritating the skin.

✅ Makes Bath Time Easier & More Effective

A well-brushed coat allows shampoo to reach the skin more effectively, ensuring a deeper clean. It also makes drying quicker and prevents water from getting trapped in thick fur, which can lead to dampness and odours.

👉 For a complete at-home spa experience, pair brushing with the Pet Head Ditch The Dirt Shampoo, a soothing formula that nourishes dry skin.

✅ Creates a Spa-Like Experience

Many pets enjoy being brushed when it’s done with a gentle, effective tool. It turns grooming into a bonding session, making your pet feel pampered and relaxed before their bath.

How to Brush Your Pet Before a Bath

Brushing doesn’t have to be a chore! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making pre-bath grooming smooth and stress-free:

1️⃣ Choose the Right Brush: Select a tool suited to your pet’s coat type. Long-haired pets need detangling brushes, while short-haired pets benefit from de-shedding tools.

2️⃣ Start with Gentle Strokes: Always brush in the direction of hair growth. If you encounter a tangle, don’t yank—use a de-matting tool or your fingers to gently loosen it.

3️⃣ Focus on Problem Areas: Pay extra attention to places where knots tend to form, like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail.

4️⃣ Check for Skin Issues: Brushing before a bath is a great time to check for fleas, ticks, dry patches, or irritated skin.

5️⃣ Reward & Reassure: Give your pet treats and praise to make brushing a positive experience.

Brushing before bath time isn’t just a helpful extra step—it’s an essential part of your pet’s grooming routine that improves their coat health, prevents painful tangles, and makes bath time easier for both of you. By using the right tools and taking a few minutes to brush your pet before every wash, you’ll reduce shedding, enhance skin health, and create a relaxing, spa-like experience they’ll actually enjoy.

At Canine & Co, we have everything you need to make grooming a breeze, from detangling brushes to deshedding tools and nourishing shampoos. By investing in high-quality grooming essentials, you’re ensuring that your pet stays comfortable, happy, and looking their best.