Ultimate Pet Combs & Brushes: Top Picks from US Retailers for Healthier Coats

Why the right comb or brush matters for your pet

Choosing the right comb or brush isn’t just about keeping your home cleaner; it’s about your pet’s health, comfort, and long-term coat condition. A proper tool removes loose fur, prevents painful mats, distributes natural oils, and can even reduce allergens in the air. Think of grooming tools as the toothbrushes and combs of the pet world — a small habit that avoids big problems. Whether you’ve got a fluffball that sheds by the pound or a short-coated buddy who rarely requires more than a quick once-over, the correct brush makes grooming less chore and more bonding time. Why settle for a one-size-fits-all tool when coat types vary so much?

Top US retailers to buy pet combs & brushes

Not all retailers are created equal when it comes to variety, price, and convenience. Below are trusted US-based places where you can find a wide selection of pet grooming tools, from budget-friendly basics to vet-recommended specialty items.

Chewy — specialist pet retailer with deep selection

Chewy is known for pet-first convenience and a huge catalog that covers almost every brand and tool you can imagine. If you want in-depth product pages, user reviews, and bundle deals, Chewy often stocks multiple sizes of slicker brushes, de-shedding tools, and breed-specific kits. The site’s strength is selection and helpful customer feedback from actual pet owners, which makes it easier to pick a brush for a 10-pound terrier versus a 60-pound Labrador.

Petco — grooming-focused options and pro lines

Petco carries a mix of consumer and professional-grade grooming tools. You’ll find ergonomic handles, stainless pins, and professional undercoat rakes that stylist groomers prefer. If you like shopping where groomers source their equipment, Petco’s selection leans toward durability and repeated-use tools that hold up to weekly sessions.

PetSmart — salon-quality tools and grooming services

PetSmart pairs a strong retail offering with grooming salons in many locations. That means you can try a technique in-store or ask groomers how a particular brush performs on a 2-inch coat versus a long-haired spaniel. PetSmart often stocks name-brand brushes alongside pet-safe shampoos and conditioners, so you can build a full grooming routine in one stop.

Amazon — widest variety and speed of delivery

Amazon marketplace gives you access to indie brands, international designs, and fast shipping options. If you want to compare dozens of slicker brushes or read hundreds of user pictures, Amazon is unmatched. Be mindful of brand authenticity and check for genuine reviews, but if you need a specific tool tomorrow, Amazon has the convenience and range to deliver.

Walmart — budget-friendly basics and nationwide reach

Walmart is a reliable place for affordable grooming kits, grooming gloves, and basic combs. If cost is a primary concern or you want a starter kit to test whether your pet tolerates brushing, Walmart offers reasonable value. You can also find mid-range tools that balance cost and performance for those not ready to splurge.

Tractor Supply — ideal for working breeds and rural pets

Tractor Supply packs tools for rugged use: rakes, heavy-duty pin brushes, and durable shedding tools fit for outdoor dogs and horses. If your pet spends time in the yard, rolls in mud, or has a thick double coat that needs a tough tool, Tractor Supply’s focus on practical, long-lasting equipment is a good match.

Pet Supplies Plus — neighborhood-friendly options

Pet Supplies Plus is a community-oriented chain that balances selection and service. You’ll find seasonal deals and practical brushes for everyday maintenance. Their stores tend to carry a useful assortment of de-shedding tools, rubber curry brushes for short hair, and grooming gloves for sensitive pets.

Target — style, function, and competitive prices

Target is a convenient mid-market choice for grooming basics, including silicone grooming gloves, bristle brushes, and affordable slicker brushes. If you like streamlined shopping with options for same-day pickup, Target can provide decent quality at a competitive price without the frills.

Types of brushes and what they do

Before you buy, familiarize yourself with the main brush categories. Each type solves a particular problem — shedding, tangles, or finishing — and the right mix depends on coat length and skin sensitivity.

Slicker brush

Slicker brushes have thin, bent wires set in a flat pad and are excellent for removing tangles and small mats in medium to long coats. Use gentle strokes and lay the brush flat against the coat to avoid irritating the skin. They’re a go-to for spaniels, poodles, and mixed breeds with dense fur.

Deshedding tool (undercoat rake)

Deshedding tools remove the loose undercoat without cutting live hair. For double-coated breeds like Siberian Huskies and Golden Retrievers, a deshedding tool can reduce shedding by a lot. These often have wide teeth, measured in inches, that penetrate the undercoat without harming the topcoat when used correctly.

Pin brush

Pin brushes resemble traditional human hairbrushes but with rounded pins that are gentle on medium to long coats. They’re great for fluffing and maintaining a polished look and work well on silky or wavy coats where you want lift and volume.

Bristle brush

Bristle brushes distribute natural oils and polish short to medium coats. They’re ideal for breeds that don’t mat easily but benefit from a glossy finish, like short-coated terriers or beagles. A soft bristle brush is also a soothing tool during bonding sessions with nervous pets.

Undercoat rake

Undercoat rakes are heavier-duty than typical deshedding tools and designed for thick double coats. They help remove dead hair from the inner layers and are measured by tooth width and length in inches, so choose a size that matches your pet’s coat density.

Flea comb

Flea combs have tightly spaced teeth that catch tiny parasites and eggs. They’re indispensable for close inspections and for pets with short hair where fleas are easier to spot. Use them in a shallow dish of soapy water to check if you’ve caught any unwanted visitors.

Grooming glove

Grooming gloves are a low-stress option for pets who dislike brushes. Made from silicone or rubber, they remove loose hair while you pet your animal, making them a two-in-one tool: calming and productive. They’re excellent for quick touch-ups and for sensitive animals that don’t tolerate metal bristles.

How to choose the best brush for your pet

Start with coat type, then consider size, handle comfort, and durability. Short-haired pets often do well with bristle brushes or grooming gloves; medium and long coats benefit from pin and slicker brushes. For double-coated breeds, invest in a quality deshedding tool or undercoat rake. Also try to pick ergonomic handles if you have a large dog and plan long grooming sessions — your wrist will thank you after half an hour of brushing.

Grooming frequency and technique

How often should you brush? Short-haired dogs can get by with once or twice a week, while long-haired and double-coated breeds may need daily brushing during shedding season. When grooming, start at the head and work toward the tail in small sections, using short strokes and rewarding your pet frequently. For tangles, hold the base of the hair to avoid pulling the skin and work from the tips inward with a slicker or detangling tool.

Tips for first-time groomers — make it calm

Grooming should be a positive ritual, not a wrestling match. Introduce tools slowly: let your pet sniff the brush, reward with treats, and use short sessions that end on a high note. If your pet shows fear, switch to grooming gloves or a soft bristle brush to desensitize them. Remember, patience trumps power — gentle, consistent practice builds trust and a better coat over time.

Maintenance: cleaning and storing brushes

Brushes collect hair, oils, and sometimes dirt — clean them after each session. Remove trapped hair with a comb or your hands, rinse metal and rubber brushes with warm water and a mild soap, and air-dry bristle pads away from direct heat. Store tools in a small caddy or drawer so they stay dust-free. Proper maintenance extends the life of the brush and keeps grooming hygienic, especially when multiple pets share tools.

Budget vs premium: when to splurge

Not every brush needs to cost a fortune, but there are times to invest. If you own a heavy-shedding double-coated breed, paying for a reliable deshedding tool pays off in fewer vet visits for skin issues and less hair around the house. Premium tools often have better ergonomics and corrosion-resistant metals that last years. For occasional brushing or pet owners on a tight budget, mid-range kits from Walmart or Target do the trick. For heavy use or professional grooming, consider shop-grade tools from Petco or specialty brands available at Chewy and Tractor Supply.

Final recommendations and product picks by coat type

Here are practical picks based on coat type. Short coats: a soft bristle brush or grooming glove from Target or Walmart keeps the coat shiny. Medium coats: a pin brush plus a slicker brush from PetSmart or Chewy handles tangles and finishing. Long, silky coats: a wide-tooth slicker and detangling spray from Amazon or Chewy help manage daily maintenance. Double coats: invest in a quality deshedding tool or undercoat rake — Tractor Supply and Chewy carry solid, durable options. If you’re still unsure, read user reviews for photos and real-world experiences; they often reveal how a brush performs on a 20-pound mixed breed versus a 70-pound working dog.

Safety and signs you’re using the wrong brush

Watch your pet while grooming. If you see redness, bleeding, or flinching, stop and reassess the tool and technique. Brushes that snag or pull are too harsh; switch to a softer option or reduce pressure. Over-brushing can strip natural oils and irritate skin, while under-brushing can lead to painful mats that may require professional removal. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian or a professional groomer for breed-specific guidance.

Where to find expert advice and demo videos

Most major retailers offer how-to guides and demo videos — Chewy and PetSmart often have step-by-step demonstrations for common grooming tasks. YouTube and manufacturer websites are also great places for technique tutorials. Watching a short video can teach you how to angle a slicker brush, use an undercoat rake without damaging the topcoat, or help a nervous pup get used to grooming tools.

Sustainable choices and materials to consider

If sustainability matters to you, look for brushes with wooden handles and recyclable metal parts, or brands that use responsibly sourced materials. Durable tools reduce waste because they don’t need frequent replacement. Small features like replaceable heads or recyclable packaging add up to a greener grooming routine over time.

Choosing the right pet comb or brush is part science, part trial-and-error, and entirely worth the effort. With options from Chewy, Petco, PetSmart, Amazon, Walmart, Tractor Supply, Pet Supplies Plus, and Target, you’ve got plenty of places to start. Match the brush to your pet’s coat, adopt gentle techniques, and you’ll both enjoy cleaner, healthier fur — and better cuddle time.