If you’re searching for the 3 best brushes for a Pekingese, you’re probably already discovering one big truth: this mix has a LOT of coat. Thick, fluffy, and surprisingly high-maintenance, the Pekingese combination creates a unique grooming challenge.

On one side, you have the dense double coat of a Pekingese. On the other, the long, flowing, often heavy coat of a Pekingese. Together? You get a dog that’s adorable, affectionate, and absolutely prone to tangles.

This mix may vary in size, but one thing is consistent: their coat mats easily without regular brushing. Areas like behind the ears, under the collar, along the chest, and on the feathered legs can become tangled quickly. And mats aren’t just cosmetic—they can be uncomfortable and lead to skin irritation if ignored.

The good news is that grooming doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right brushes and a simple routine, you can keep your Pekingese’s coat healthy, soft, and manageable.

Let’s walk through exactly what you need.

Must Have Grooming Tools Every Pekingese Owner Needs

Before you begin brushing, you need tools designed for thick, long, and potentially double-layered coats. Not all brushes are created equal, especially for mixed breeds like this one.

These are the three core grooming tools we recommend for Pekingese owners, plus one bonus product that makes everything easier.

1. Large Slicker Brush

 

The Large Slicker Brush is the most important tool for this mix. If your Pekingese has inherited that dense undercoat from the side, this brush is essential.

The extra-long pins are designed to reach deep into thick coats without just brushing the surface. That’s critical because mats form closest to the skin—not on top.

Why this brush works so well:

• Reaches deep into dense coats
• Breaks up tangles before they tighten
• Helps prevent matting in high-friction areas
• Ideal for medium to large dogs with heavy coats

Behind the ears and along the feathered legs are the most common problem spots. Using a Large slicker brush allows you to gently “line brush” down to the skin, removing tangles before they turn into mats.

If your dog’s coat leans more toward thick and plush, this is your go-to brush.

2. Metal Comb

A slicker brush loosens tangles—but the Metal Comb confirms they’re actually gone.

This is the tool that tells you whether you’ve brushed properly. After slicker brushing, you should be able to run the comb from root to tip without resistance.

The dual-length stainless steel teeth make it ideal for mixed coat types. The longer teeth reach deeper into dense fur, while the shorter teeth refine and smooth the top layer.

This comb is especially helpful for:

• Behind the ears
• Under the chin
• Under the collar
• Chest feathering
• Armpits
• Back legs

If the comb catches, there’s still a tangle hiding underneath. Go back with your slicker brush before moving on.

Think of the metal comb as your “quality check” tool.

3. Self Cleaning Slicker Brush

If your Pekingese has a lighter or slightly less dense coat—or if your dog is sensitive to grooming—the Self Cleaning Slicker Brush is a fantastic addition.

This brush has shorter pins with coated tips, making it gentle for sensitive areas like:

• Face
• Around the ears
• Belly
• Legs

It’s also perfect for puppies or dogs that are still getting used to grooming.

The self-cleaning feature is a bonus. With one click, hair releases from the brush, making cleanup quick and easy—especially helpful during heavy shedding seasons.

Many owners actually use both slicker brushes:

• The long pin slicker for full-body grooming
• The self-cleaning slicker for touch-ups and sensitive spots

Bonus: Detangler Spray

 

If you’ve ever tried brushing a dry, slightly tangled coat, you know how frustrating it can be.

The Detangler Spray makes grooming smoother and more comfortable. A light mist helps loosen knots and reduces friction, so the brush glides through instead of pulling.

Why it’s helpful for this mix:

• Reduces tugging
• Makes brushing more comfortable
• Helps prevent breakage
• Leaves coat soft and manageable
• Use a light mist before brushing. Never soak the coat—just enough to help the brush move smoothly.

For long-coated mixes like Pekingese, this product truly makes a difference.

Step-by-Step: How to Brush a Pekingese

Now let’s talk about how to actually groom your dog properly.

This routine works whether your mix leans more toward thickness or length.

1. Always Start with a Dry Coat

Hair + water = Tighter mats

Never brush wet fur. If your dog just had a bath, make sure the coat is fully dry before brushing.

Brushing wet hair can worsen tangles and cause breakage.

2. Lightly Mist with Detangler Spray

Spray a light mist over the section you’re about to brush—especially behind the ears and along feathered legs.

This helps reduce friction and makes brushing more comfortable.

3. Line Brush with the Long Pin Slicker Brush

This is the most important step.

Don’t just brush the top layer. Mats form underneath.

How to line brush:

1. Start at the bottom of the coat.
2. Lift a small section of hair upward.
3. Brush from the skin outward.
4. Move up gradually in small sections.

You should be able to see the skin as you brush each layer.

Behind the ears:
Hold the ear flap gently forward and brush the hair underneath in small sections.

Leg feathering:
Work slowly and use short strokes to avoid pulling.

4. Check Your Work with the Metal Comb

After brushing a section, run the Metal Comb through it.

If it glides easily, you’re done with that area.
If it snags, go back with the slicker brush.

This step prevents hidden mats.

5. Use the Self Cleaning Slicker for Sensitive Areas

For delicate spots—like around the face or belly—switch to the Self Cleaning Slicker Brush.

Its softer design makes grooming more comfortable, especially for dogs who dislike brushing.

6. Create a Consistent Routine

For a Pekingese:

• Brush 3–4 times per week
• During shedding seasons, brush daily
• Check ears, legs, and under collar every session

Consistency prevents painful matting and reduces grooming stress.

Common Trouble Spots to Watch

With this mix, these areas mat the fastest:

• Behind the ears
• Under the collar
• Armpits
• Chest feathering
• Back legs
• Tail base

Do a quick check every few days—even if you’re not doing a full brushing session.

FAQs About Pekingese Grooming

1. How often should I brush my Pekingese?

You should brush at least 3–4 times per week. If the coat is thick or shedding heavily, daily brushing may be needed.

2. What is the best brush for a Pekingese?

A large slicker brush is the most effective tool for thick or dense coats. Always pair it with a metal comb to ensure the coat is fully detangled.

3. Why does my dog get mats behind the ears?

Behind the ears is a high-friction area. Movement, moisture, and rubbing cause tangles to form quickly.

Regular brushing and detangler spray help prevent this.

4. Can I brush my dog while the coat is wet?

No. Always brush a dry coat. Wet brushing tightens mats and increases breakage.

5. Do I need both slicker brushes?

If your dog has a thick coat, yes.
The large slicker brush handles dense areas, while the self-cleaning slicker is ideal for sensitive or smaller sections.

6. What if my dog hates being brushed?

Start slowly. Use the Self Cleaning Slicker Brush first because it’s gentler. Keep sessions short and positive. Offer treats and praise.

Consistency builds tolerance.

7. Should I shave my Pekingese if it gets matted?

Shaving should be a last resort and done by a professional groomer. Severe mats close to the skin can cause irritation and should not be aggressively pulled.

If you’re unsure, consult a professional groomer or veterinarian.

8. Does this mix shed a lot?

Yes—especially if the side dominates. Regular brushing helps control shedding and keeps loose undercoat from building up.

9. How can I make grooming easier?

Use a detangler spray, brush consistently, and don’t skip the metal comb step. Small, frequent sessions are easier than tackling heavy mats later.

Grooming a  Pekingese takes patience—but with the right tools, it becomes manageable. The key is consistency and using brushes designed for thick, long coats.

Start with the Long Pin Slicker Brush for deep brushing, use the Metal Comb to check your work, keep the Self Cleaning Slicker Brush for sensitive areas, and don’t forget the Detangler Spray to make the process smoother.

If you have questions about grooming your Pekingese, leave a comment—we love hearing from fellow pet parents.

Ready to build your grooming kit? Explore our full Freshly Bailey collection to find the right tools for your dog.