![Best Brushes For Cockapoos [Top 5 Picks & Buyers Guide]](https://peteducate.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Best-Brushes-For-Cockapoos-Top-5-Picks-Buyers-Guide.png)
Cockapoos are renowned for their coats. And as their owner, it’s going to fall on you to keep it in tip-top shape – all year around. And it comes with its challenges, especially as these dogs do not shed like other breeds.
Thankfully, it is relatively easy to look after a cockapoo’s coat with the right tools and the right approach.
That’s exactly why we have taken a look across the market, compared the options, and put the different brushes to the test. Below you will only find those that meet the strictest of criteria.
Best Brushes For Cockapoos
PetEd Slicker Brush For Dogs
This is my recommended pick and choice of slicker brush for cockapoos.
Why? – Because I physically sourced it and tested it. Yes, that’s my hand and that is my cockapoo Bailey up above.
With it, you can penetrate deeply yet safely and remove any signs of matting, tangles and knots that are starting to develop. It will also effectively remove dirt.
It’s ideal for the curly cockapoo coat and was designed for dogs with challenging coats.
This brush has been designed with the user in mind; it is comfortable in the palm, is anti-slip and easy to work with. Plus, perhaps the standout feature is the self-cleaning mechanism.
Once you’ve brushed your cockapoo, you can use the central button and in a second, the bristles retract back into the brush, and you can easily deposit the collected hair into a bin.
Most other dog brushes leave you with a lot collected hair and the difficulties of removing it from the brush.
Its also incredibly durable and weas built to last.
Why I supply and recommend this brush
- Effortless to use, comfortable to hold and work with.
- Very easy to clean – self-cleaning mechanism enables retract and deposit.
- Fine bristles enable deep penetration and removing of matting without scratching your cockapoos skin.
Things to consider
- Best on use for cockapoos and dogs with longer or more challenging coats.
The Pet Portal Pro Quality Self Cleaning Slicker Brush
This is another alternative Slicker Brush you can consider.
Again, it’s a well designed and constructed brush, made with high-quality materials which makes it sturdy and sure to last.
Conveniently, you can dispose of any loose hair the brush collects by using the in-built cleaning mechanism that is also has.
This enables you to easily retract the pins whereby you can slide off excess hair effortlessly. You can do this in one click of a button and the process takes under five seconds.
The brush is comfortable to work with an hold, coming with an anti-slip handle for better control. You can easily and effectively get through the thickest coats and help leave your cockapoo with a fresh, shiny coat.
What we like
- High quality materials and construction (stainless steel pins).
- Effortless to use; hair release mechanism is intuitive.
What we don’t like
- Going too quickly with the brush can cause it to stick. Requires gentle strokes.
DoodleBrush Slicker Brush for Poodle Breeds
The Doodle Brush was designed with poodles and other poodle-crosses, like cockapoos in mind. While it’s the most expensive option by quite some way, it does provide some added benefits that can warrant the added price.
For one, the design prevents any potential snagging and pulling; due to the flexible, long curved pins that are built into the head of the brush.
Perhaps the main benefit and feature of this product is that it has been designed with two sides/components. This enables you to brush for longer, collecting more hair in the process. It also means that you have more control of the brush as you stroke through your cockapoos coat.
While there is no central cleaning mechanism, you can use a comb or other instrument to remove the hair. Its not as neat as the other products in our list, but it is not too difficult either.
What we like
- Designed for poodle breeds in mind; particularly cross-breeds like cockapoos
- Curved pins are long making it easier to use and preventing snagging
- Brush head has two sections so that you can obtain more hair before you need to stop brushing and clean out the brush
What we don’t like
- Expensive compared to other brushes of comparable style and functionality.
- Requires manual removal of hair.
Home of Paws Pin Brush
No products found.
If you are looking for a traditional pin brush over a Slicker, then the Home of Paws brush is the way to go.
Value for money is a perk of this brush, being one of the cheaper options on the market, and being a pin brush and a bristle brush in one!
This is a multi-functional tool where you can use it to groom, clean and massage your cockapoos coat. The pins are soft, and gentle on your dogs coat and skin, ensuring that you will not cause discomfort when using it.
Being constructed of a natural and waterproof lotus wood (with added natural oil treatment), its completely water-resistant and remains strong even with repeated use.
It’s also been designed to keep your hand in a more natural position which prevents hand fatigue even if your dogs coat is a challenge to get through.
This is much more of an ‘everyday’ product that you can use for a brief groom after a walk, or to remove any dirt that they have accumulated and you do not want to bring into your home.
Beyond just dirt removal, the bristles will also help disseminate your dogs natural oils over their coat; keeping it clean and shiny.
What we like
- Two sided, multi-functional having both use for general grooming and deshedding.
- Rounded head pins making it more comfortable on your dogs skin.
- Great all round brush; ideal on all dog fur types and for use on multiple breeds.
What we don’t like
- Cleaning the brush takes time; requires manual removal of hair.
- Bristle placement means hair gets stuck quickly meaning shorter grooming sessions and/or more regular hair removal for optimal performance.
PawsPamper Rake Brush
Its a common misconception that cockapoos do not need an undercoat rake. These style of brushes are able to penetrate deep and remove matting that is close to the skin and somewhat trapped by the hair up above. While cockapoos might not have undercoats, they can have very dense fur which needs to be effectively managed.
The PawsPamper Rake is our pick within this category. The stainless steel and rounded blades can effectively remove deep yet lose fur and matting whilst being gentle all the while .
What we like
- Rounded blade tips make this comfortable on your dogs skin despite what can be a painful process.
- 20 Blades included
- Strong, durable design
What we don’t like
- More challenging to use than a Slicker/Pin brush and requires great concentration and care.
- Better at removing mats rather than dead hair
Cockapoo Brush Buying Guide
Below you will find some of the most popular things to consider when shopping around for a brush.
Different Brush Types for Cockapoos/Poodles
When you begin to research for brushes, you’ll soon find that there are actually different brush types for dogs. Not all are best nor appropriate for all dog breeds.
When it comes to a cockapoo; there are specific types that will give a better, safer and less painful brush.
Bristle brushes, as an example, are are better for shorter-haired dogs with straighter coats, as opposed to the traditional curly coat of a poodle.
Let us now take a look at the following different brush styles in more detail:
- Slicker Brush
- Rake brush
- Pin brush
- Metal comb
Slicker Brush
Slicker brushes are considered to be the best type of brush for cockapoos due to the way it works with their distinctive coat.
This is because they work particularly well at removing and banishing tangles that usually occur within a poodles coat.
Slicker brushes have short, thin wires are all packed finely and close together. These are attached to a flat surface. You’ll find that the handles often differ in length and this is generally down to preference and the for use of different respective dog sizes.
When using a Slick brush, you will not want to brush down to the skin. Due to being needle based, these can cause discomfort and even pain. So while they are effective, you need to be careful and not overly forceful when using them.
Rake Brush
A rake brush is not that much different to a Slicker, however it enables you to comb a bit deeper. This essentially enables you to remove deep-rooted mat and fur that is closer to your cockapoo’s body.
This is the kind of brush that you will need to purchase if your cockapoos fur is very matted and you are looking to help brush it out.
Rake brushes do look somewhat unique; they in many ways look like a shaving razor. Again, if you were to use a rake brush you should not apply too much pressure as the needle heads can damage your cockapoos skin.
One of the side benefits of using a rake brush is that you can more effectively check the skin of your cockapoo and observe any conditions or ailments.
Pin Brush
Pin brushes can easily be identified. They actually look like old fashioned human brushes. These are in many ways the classic brush used for dogs.
Pin brushes are some of the most comfortable for your dog, however consider that they tend to be a little less effective. This is because they are mainly for collecting loose and dead fur from the coat rather than removing any matting.
Pin brushes are mostly almond/oval shaped, and the pins are generally equally spaced apart. These types of brush work well on sensitive places on your cockapoos body like the ears and under the eyes.
While you still need to remain careful with these types of brushes, you typically would not be able to scratch or harm your cockapoo like some of the other styles.
Metal Comb
Cockapoos are just one of a few breeds that you can use a metal comb on. While they look similar to the ones we use, if you look closely you would notice that the teeth are spaced further apart.
It is using metal combs that you can style your cockapoos coat more, making it more voluminous and ‘poofy’.
Metal combs will not effectively eradicate matted fur. Instead, they can be used to help find them. It is with a Slicker, Rake or Pin brush that you would need for such a task.
Cockapoo Coats
Not all cockapoo’s have the same type and consistency of fur within their coat. It completely depends on the mix, and what they inherited from their parents.
These are generally the different types of coats that cockapoos have:
- Loose Wavy Coat
- Soft Tight Curly Coat
- Straight Coat
Each cockapoo coat can be very unique and it can vary a lot dog to dog.
Irrespective of the exact type of coat they have, they all require regular brushing and grooming. How you go about brushing and the amount of brushing required will likely differ.
Nonetheless, regular brushing will ensure their coat remains mat-free and grows optimally.
Main Challenges With Cockapoo Coats
Cockapoos are not the easiest of breeds to brush and groom and this is one factor to consider ahead of adopting one. They will require time to groom and you must ensure you do this regularly and frequently.
Cockapoos are renowned for their luscious coats; it what makes them so appealing and cute. When maintained, a cockapoos coat is a soft texture that is an absolute pleasure to stroke.
That being said there are some common challenges to keep it in prime condition. These include:
- The curlier the coat, the easier it tends to mat. Some cockapoos have coats that mat very easily.
- Cockapoos will look unkempt if you do not brush them; it will be clearly evident when grooming has not been prioritized
- Mated fur and coats can be painful when it comes to being brushed out
- If you do not keep on top of regular brushing and grooming, your cockapoo may need to have a complete shave. In this scenario, a professional groomer will not be able to restore the coat.
- The straighter the coat on your cockapoo, the less likely they are to mat. However, they’re more likely to shed fur.
- Professional grooming is relatively expensive; particularly if your cockapoo needs regular shaving. You can minimize the costs and need for this service if you keep on top of your brushing.
Cockapoo Coat Care and Best Practices
In order to keep your cockapoo’s coat in great condition, regular grooming is going to be a requirement.
If you have recently got a new cockapoo puppy, you may not be entirely sure what is actually required. Here are some suggestions so that you can get an understanding of what to do and expect:
- Brush your cockapoo’s fur daily. Brushing in the morning is best because it ensures you stick to a regular schedule and ensures that you get it done before things arise in your day.
- Investing in a premium brush will not only make the job easier for you, but will make it a calmer more relaxing experience for your cockapoo too.
- Regular professional grooming is still required. Cockapoo’s coats grow quickly and professional groomers will be able to physically cut/sheer the coat down to a more appropriate level.
- Be careful when brushing, particularly around and over the ears which are sensitive in the cockapoo breed.
- Cockapoo coats are thick. You need to ensure you brush through the entire coat and reduce and eliminate and matting that can form underneath.
- If regular brushing is not undertaken, your cockapoo’s fur will become matted and will likely need being completely shaved off.
- Bathing your cockapoo ahead of brushing makes the process easier.
- The younger your cockapoo the better when it comes to brushing and grooming. Get them used to the procedure from a young age. This will also ensure that it grows optimally.
FAQs
Below are some common questions regarding brushing and grooming a cockapoo. These are some of the questions you may have before you invest in a brush:
What Kind Of Brush Is Best For A Cockapoo?
Generally, due to the nature of their fur a Slicker Brush is ideal for day to day brushing. It can very effectively provide surface brushing but also remove tangles and potential matting. The best slicker brushes will not only be more comfortable for your cockapoo, but easier for you. A slicker brush has fine bristles that are able to carefully penetrate the fur and detangle most hair, while removing dirt at the same time.
However, a rake brush may be required if matting has already occurred and you are looking to help minimize the impact that this can have.
How Often Should I Brush My Cockapoo?
You should look to brush your cockapoo as frequently as possible. More so if they have a curly coat. At minimum you should like to brush them 2-3 times per week, but daily is preferable. The more you can brush them the more you can reduce matting and other issues.
How Often Should I Bathe My Cockapoo?
Cockapoos do not need to be bathed too regularly. In fact, doing so too often is counterproductive and can lead to dry skin and other issues. Bathing your cockapoo once per month with a dog-friendly shampoo, or following times when they are damp, muddy or wet is a good rule of thumb.
Bottom Line
It doesn’t matter the type of coat that your cockapoo has or even how old they are, using a high-quality brush will make the world of difference to their coats.
There are multiple brush styles, each serving a purpose, which is why you will often be recommended to get multiple different styles of brushes. For the most part, Slicker bushes are going to do the best job at eliminating matting.
There are several things to remember when shopping around one of these products, but a few features are more important than others. For instance, you need to make sure they are sturdy, well designed, and have an appropriately sized handle.
Remember to consider the type of coat your cockapoo has, how often you will be looking to brush them, and how each brush has been put together.
Lastly, please be safe and mindful of your cockapoo when brushing them. We’re confident that you’ve found an amazing brush for your dog today. Before you know it, your cockapoo’s coat will be in great condition with minimal matting.
I am a practiced pet owner with decades of experience owning a number of different pets. I am also the main writer and chief editor here at Pet Educate; a site I created to share everything I’ve learned about pet ownership over the years and my extensive research along the way.