Keeping a dog well-groomed isn’t just about appearance—it’s about health, hygiene, and the bond you build through regular care. If you’ve ever wrangled a shaggy spaniel after a muddy walk or tried detangling a matted undercoat, you’ll know just how important it is to have the right gear on hand.

Whether you’re caring for a fluffy Golden Retriever or a silky Shih Tzu, having a well-stocked grooming kit turns grooming from a chore into a calm, confidence-building routine. And if you’re managing it at home, good tools are everything.

In this guide, you’ll find a curated list of dog grooming must-haves, especially if you’re handling a long-haired dog and looking for versatile, trustworthy dog hair supplies. We’ll explore what’s essential, what’s optional, and how each item contributes to a healthier, happier dog—and a much less stressed owner.

Why Proper Grooming Tools Matter

A woman brushes a small, fluffy dog while sitting on a bed, surrounded by soft pillows and a neutral-colored aesthetic.

Before diving into the kit list, let’s be clear: not all grooming tools are created equal. The right brush or comb doesn’t just remove hair—it prevents matting, distributes oils, and keeps your dog’s skin in better condition. The wrong tools? They can cause discomfort, skin irritation, or just make grooming unnecessarily difficult.

Think of your grooming kit as an investment in your dog’s well-being. It’ll save you from emergency vet visits caused by matted fur or infected ears—and probably from a few grooming bills, too.

Brushes and Combs: The Daily Defenders

Slicker Brush

If you own a long-haired breed, this tool is your best friend. Slicker brushes have fine, short wires packed closely together—perfect for removing loose fur, light tangles, and undercoat build-up.

Use it gently across the coat, particularly after walks or when you notice clumps forming.

Pin Brush

A pin brush is great for daily use on silky or fine coats. It’s more forgiving than a slicker brush and ideal for dogs with sensitive skin. Look for one with rounded pins to avoid scratching.

Undercoat Rake

For double-coated dogs like Huskies or Border Collies, an undercoat rake digs deeper into the coat to remove loose, shedding fur before it mats. This is essential during seasonal coat transitions when dogs “blow” their coat.

You’ll also find it helpful during heavy moulting seasons, especially if you’ve read our post on seasonal hair changes in long-haired breeds.

Steel Comb

A basic yet indispensable tool. Use it after brushing to catch any missed tangles, especially around the ears, legs, and tail. A wide-toothed comb handles knots; finer teeth are better for finishing.

Shampoo, Conditioner & Coat Maintenance

Dog-Specific Shampoo

A person with manicured hands prepares a bottle of pet shampoo while a curious Corgi watches attentively in a cozy bathroom setting.

Never use human shampoo. A dog’s skin has a different pH and needs gentle, tailored formulas. Pick one suited to your dog’s coat and skin—whether it’s anti-itch, moisturising, or hypoallergenic.

Conditioner or Detangling Spray

Conditioners help soften long coats, making detangling easier and reducing breakage. A spray is great for brushing sessions in between baths to loosen light tangles or freshen the coat.

Coat Oils and Serums

To enhance shine and prevent dry or brittle fur, lightweight oils or coat serums can be worked into your dog’s grooming routine. This is especially helpful if your pup’s fur tends to get dull or frizzy. If that’s the case, you might also want to check out our guide on what to do about dog hair breakage.

Nail, Ear, and Paw Care Essentials

Nail Clippers or Grinders

Long nails can cause posture issues, pain, or injury. You’ll want:

  • Scissor-style clippers for large breeds with thick nails
  • Guillotine-style for smaller breeds
  • Grinders for smooth edges and dogs that hate clipping

Remember: never cut into the quick (the live part of the nail). A styptic powder is handy in case you do.

Ear Cleaning Solution

Dogs with floppy or hairy ears—think Cocker Spaniels or Poodles—are prone to infections. Use a vet-recommended ear cleaner weekly with cotton pads. Never stick anything deep into the ear canal.

Paw Balm

Cold weather, hot pavements, and daily walks can crack paw pads. A soothing balm restores moisture and protects against environmental wear.

Bathing and Drying Supplies

Absorbent Towels

Microfibre towels are super-absorbent and speed up drying without causing friction or damage. Keep at least two handy: one for post-bath drying, and another for muddy paws.

Pet Dryer

A good dog dryer (not your hairdryer!) makes drying thick or double coats safer and quicker. Choose a model with variable heat and speed to suit your dog’s comfort level.

Trimming and Styling Tools

Grooming Scissors

Choose a rounded-tip pair for safe trimming around sensitive areas like eyes, ears, and paws. For full coats, invest in straight-edge scissors with sharp blades for clean cuts.

Thinning Shears

Ideal for blending and softening lines, thinning shears help avoid the choppy, uneven look that beginners often struggle with.

Clippers

For all-over trims, quality electric clippers are a must. Look for adjustable blade settings, a quiet motor, and a model appropriate for your dog’s coat density.

Organising Your Grooming Kit

Keeping your grooming supplies organised saves time, keeps things sanitary, and makes the whole experience more enjoyable. Consider:

  • Toolboxes or caddies with compartments
  • Hooks or magnetic strips for hanging brushes and scissors
  • Dedicated drawers in a laundry or bathroom area
  • Waterproof mats or trays to keep supplies clean and dry

If you’ve already set up a home grooming corner, integrating your toolkit into that space will keep things efficient and prevent forgotten steps or misplaced items.

Safety and Hygiene Additions

Don’t forget to include:

  • Styptic powder for minor nicks
  • Gloves for cleaning sensitive areas or applying treatments
  • Sanitising spray or wipes for your tools
  • Muzzles or grooming loops (for anxious or wriggly dogs)
  • Apron or grooming smock for you—you’ll thank yourself later

Tailoring Your Kit to Your Dog’s Needs

No two dogs are the same. A Border Collie needs different tools than a Maltese. Always think about:

  • Coat type and length
  • Shedding level
  • Sensitivity of skin
  • Temperament during grooming
  • Frequency of baths and trims

Your kit should evolve with your dog’s age, coat condition, and grooming habits. What you needed for a puppy may change drastically once they hit adulthood.

Conclusion: Build It Right, Use It Often

Grooming your dog at home isn’t just practical—it’s part of a healthy, enriching routine that helps your dog feel secure, loved, and well cared for. The right grooming supplies save time, prevent problems, and make the entire process smoother for both of you.

By assembling a personalised kit of long-haired dog tools, stocking up on proven dog hair supplies, and using consistent routines, you’ll not only reduce shedding and prevent mats—you’ll also deepen the bond you share with your pup.

So take stock, invest wisely, and turn grooming time into quality time. Your dog—and your furniture—will thank you.