What is the Best Brush for Poodles? Our 3 Top Picks & Grooming Tips

 

Poodles are smart, affectionate, and incredibly loyal dogs. They’re athletic, eager to please, and surprisingly easy to train—making them one of the best family dogs around. But one thing many new owners overlook is just how much grooming a poodle really needs.

The Truth About Grooming a Poodle

Despite their reputation as a low-shedding breed, poodles are not low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. In fact, their curly coats require regular care—and that starts with choosing the right brush for your poodle.

To keep your poodle’s coat healthy, fluffy, and mat-free, you’ll need a solid brushing routine and the best brush for poodles. Many families fall in love with the look of a soft, curly puppy but aren’t prepared for the daily grooming that comes with it.

Matting is the most common grooming issue poodle owners face. Without proper brushing, those beautiful curls can quickly tangle into painful mats. And once a coat is severely matted, the only option may be to shave your poodle down to the skin—a frustrating experience for any owner.

Using a high-quality slicker brush for poodles is one of the best ways to prevent matting before it starts. Regular brushing—ideally every day, or at least 3 times a week—keeps the coat soft, detangled, and healthy. But it’s not just about frequency; it’s about having the right tools and knowing how to use them.

TOP 3 BRUSHES EVERY POODLE OWNER SHOULD HAVE

Before brushing and combing your precious poodle, you need the right grooming tools. These are the top three tools that will make grooming so much easier.

1. A High Quality Slicker Brush for Poodles

The slicker brush is the number one dog brush recommended by grooming professionals for poodles. It is actually the type of brush you want to start with when grooming your dog because it will help break up any knots and prevent matting. 

The slicker brush is perfect for poodle coat maintenance at home. However, there are different types of slicker brushes, and not all slicker brushes work the same. After testing a variety of slicker brushes, we came to the conclusion that the Freshly Bailey long pin curved slicker brush is the best brush for poodle owners.

This long pin slicker brush is great at working through dense and thick coats because of its larger than standard pins. It smoothly works its way through your poodle's coat making coat maintenance much easier. It removes tangles and mats, and it's the perfect brush for achieving that fluffy look effortlessly. But most importantly, it is loved by dogs!

The Freshly Bailey slicker brush is extremely lightweight, the long wood handle is ergonomic, and it is very comfortable and effective. The extra long pins and curved design make brushing a gentle and positive experience. Plus, it is reasonably priced compared to the Chris Christensen slicker brush. 

 

2. A Dematting Comb for Poodle Coat

A dematting comb is an excellent tool to have on hand when grooming your poodle as it is specifically designed to remove mats. If you are keeping up with your grooming routine by brushing and combing your poodle at least 3 times per week, you should not need to use the dematting comb. But life happens and sometimes we may forget. In this case the dematting comb can come in very handy before having to take your pup to the groomer for a shavedown.

The Dematting Comb for Poodles is a great option. It is effective at removing mats and getting deep into the dog’s coat. Plus, it is specifically designed for coats that are prone to matting like a poodle's coat. 

3. A Metal Comb

A metal comb should be used after you have brushed your poodle thoroughly with the slicker brush. The end result should be the ability to get the comb from the root to the tip of the hair.

We like the Dual-length Dog Metal Comb. It is the perfect comb to add the finishing touch to your poodle’s coat. It has long and short stainless steel teeth to quickly and painlessly remove any remaining tangles or knots. Its rounded head pins keep your doodle’s skin from getting scratched. And the anti-slip handle protects your dog from any slippery accidents.

 

Frequently Asked Questions: Brushing Your Poodle

What is the best brush for poodles?

The best brush for poodles is a long pin slicker brush, like the Freshly Bailey Long Pin Slicker Brush. It gently detangles curly coats, removes loose hair, and helps prevent painful mats.

How often should I brush my poodle?

Poodles should be brushed at least 3–4 times a week to keep their coat tangle-free and healthy. Daily brushing is even better if your poodle is prone to matting.

Can I use a slicker brush on a poodle puppy?

Yes! A slicker brush is great for poodle puppies, just use a gentle touch. Starting early helps them get used to grooming, which is essential for poodle care.

Why do poodles need regular brushing?

Because poodles have curly, non-shedding coats that can easily trap dirt and form mats. Regular brushing keeps their coat clean, soft, and free of tangles.

What’s the difference between a slicker brush and other brushes for poodles?

Slicker brushes have fine, angled pins that are perfect for detangling curly coats like a poodle’s. Unlike pin brushes or bristle brushes, a slicker brush can reach deeper into the coat without damaging the hair.

How do I prevent my poodle's hair from matting?

Use a high-quality slicker brush regularly, apply a detangling spray when needed, and never skip brushing after baths. Mats usually start when hair dries tangled or gets neglected for a few days.

Can I use a dematting tool on my poodle?

Yes, especially if your poodle already has small mats. A dematting comb like the Freshly Bailey Tool can break up mats gently without hurting your dog.