Author: Catie Parrish

We all want our pets to look and feel their best, and that includes regularly brushing their fur. Much like the perfect dog collar or dog crate, finding the best dog brushes or combs is an important and a highly personal decision based on your pet’s specific needs. “Breed and personality determine little. Ideally, one will choose the proper dog brush and comb for your dog’s coat type,” says Master Pet Stylist Daryl Conner, owner of FairWinds Grooming Studio in Appleton, Maine. Brushing your dog’s fur isn’t just about making your pup look pretty. “Your pet’s coat is more than something lovely to pet. It protects the dog’s largest organ: it’s skin,” Conner explains. Not to mention, frequent brushing will cut down on your dog’s shedding—and the fluffy tumbleweeds collecting in the corners of your rooms. Conner recommends investing in quality tools. Not only will they last the lifetime of your pet (if the tools are well cared for) but “well-made combs and brushes will have smooth, finished teeth or tines that will glide smoothly through the coat and not cause damage as you work.” We’ve culled the best dog brushes and combs for different coat types to help you identify the most appropriate one for your pet. If you’re still not sure what to pick for your pet, talk to your breeder or groomer for tool recommendations.

You probably find yourself grabbing the leash multiple times a day. And while you might not give it much thought, a dog leash is actually a pretty important piece of equipment. Keeping your dog by you when you’re outside of your home protects your pet, other animals and people. It also saves yourself the hassle of cleaning muddy paws, because you can steer your canine away from those puddles. (Hey, at least you can try!) But do you have the right leash for the job? Dog leashes come in a variety of materials and styles, from leather and nylon to retractable and hands-free. Does your dog pull? A shorter leash might be a good option because it will allow for more control. Going for a run? A hands-free leash will allow you more mobility while keeping your dog by your side. To help you pick the best dog leash for your needs, we’ve broken them down into different categories, highlighting which types of dogs they’re best for.

Most responsible pet parents understand the importance of choosing the right dog food for their pooch. But have you ever really considered what you put the dog food and water in? Your immediate thought may be that it’s not a big deal, but Dr. Tyson Grover, a veterinarian at Friendly Vet in Lisle, Illinois, shares that there are actually several factors to consider when shopping for the best dog bowls and feeders, and not every bowl is a good choice for every dog. We’ve rounded up a variety of dog bowls, feeders and water fountains to help you find the right one for your pet.