The best grooming tools of 2026

The Chris Christensen Big G is the Rolls Royce of slicker brushes. The flexible pin technology detangles without pulling, and the ergonomic bent handle is genuinely more comfortable over long grooming sessions. For dogs with medium or long coats, the quality difference is immediately obvious.

For puppies getting their first baths, Burt's Bees removes the anxiety with a genuinely tearless, gentle formula that won't cause a negative association with bath time. The buttermilk base leaves puppy coats impossibly soft without any harsh ingredients. It's mild by design, so don't expect it to tackle a mud-caked adult retriever.

The FURminator is the single best grooming investment for double-coated, heavy-shedding breeds. Used correctly (no more than twice a week), it dramatically reduces the hair on your furniture and floors. A must-own for Golden Retriever, Husky, and German Shepherd owners.

Burt's Bees Oatmeal Shampoo is the best everyday dog shampoo for sensitive or dry skin. The colloidal oatmeal formula relieves itchiness and dryness without stripping natural oils. At $10, it's also exceptional value — used by vets as a gentle recommendation for dogs with skin sensitivities.

The Wahl Bravura is what professional groomers use and what serious DIY groomers should buy. The power is significantly beyond consumer clippers and the adjustable blade eliminates the need to swap guards constantly. At $85, it pays for itself in a few grooming sessions.

The Dremel PawControl is the best nail grinder for dogs who panic at the sight of nail clippers. The gradual grinding process is far less traumatic, and the LED light helps you avoid the quick. It takes more time than clipping but the result is smoother and stress levels are dramatically lower.