Best Brushes for Papillons

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

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🏆 Quick answer

Our top pick is Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush — best for Papillons with curly or silky coats prone to matting. Why it wins: Gentle on skin.

The Papillon's long silky single coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. With moderate shedding, it's essential to use the right brush to keep their coat healthy and looking its best. A brush that's designed for curly or silky coats prone to matting is ideal for this breed. The Papillon's delicate frame and prone to dental issues mean that grooming should be a gentle and enjoyable experience for both dog and owner. A brush that's comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver is crucial for getting into all the tight spaces and curves of the Papillon's body. When it comes to brushing a Papillon, the goal is to gently work out tangles and mats while being mindful of their sensitive skin and potential dental issues. The right brush can make all the difference in keeping their coat looking its best and preventing potential health problems.

What to look for

Coat Type

The Papillon's long silky single coat requires a brush that's designed for curly or silky coats prone to matting. A slicker brush or a pin brush with flexible pins is ideal for gently working out tangles and mats. The brush should have fine teeth or pins that won't scratch or damage the coat.

Shedding Volume

The Papillon sheds moderately, so a brush that's designed to remove loose hair and prevent matting is essential. A brush with a deshedding edge or a self-cleaning feature can be helpful in reducing shedding and preventing hair from getting everywhere.

Size and Comfort

The Papillon is a small breed, so a brush that's designed for toy breeds is essential. The brush should be comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver, with a small head that can get into tight spaces and curves of the Papillon's body.

Gentle on Skin

The Papillon has sensitive skin, so a brush that's gentle and won't scratch or irritate the skin is crucial. A brush with flexible pins or soft bristles is ideal for this breed.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush	Papillons with curly or silky coats prone to matting
2	Andis Premium Curved Slicker Brush	Papillons with curly or silky coats prone to matting
3	Safari Combo Brush for Dogs	Papillons with curly or silky coats prone to matting
4	KONG ZoomGroom Dog Grooming Brush	Papillons with short coats or for use in the bath
5	FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool	Papillons with thick undercoats

Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush

Best for Papillons with curly or silky coats prone to matting

The Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush is ideal for Papillons with curly or silky coats prone to matting. The fine bent wire bristles penetrate deep without scratching, and the self-cleaning button retracts bristles to release hair. The ergonomic non-slip handle makes it comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver.

✓ Gentle on skin
✓ Effective at removing tangles and mats
✓ Self-cleaning feature reduces shedding

✕ May not be suitable for Papillons with very fine or thin coats

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Andis Premium Curved Slicker Brush

Best for Papillons with curly or silky coats prone to matting

The Andis Premium Curved Slicker Brush is designed for toy breeds like the Papillon. The curved head follows body contours, and the fine stainless steel pins are gentle on skin. The soft-grip handle makes it comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver.

✓ Gentle on skin
✓ Effective at removing tangles and mats
✓ Curved head follows body contours

✕ May not be suitable for Papillons with very fine or thin coats

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Safari Combo Brush for Dogs

Best for Papillons with curly or silky coats prone to matting

The Safari Combo Brush for Dogs is a dual-sided brush that's ideal for Papillons with curly or silky coats prone to matting. The pin side detangles, and the bristle side smooths and shines. The wooden handle is comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver.

✓ Gentle on skin
✓ Effective at removing tangles and mats
✓ Dual-sided for detangling and smoothing

✕ May not be suitable for Papillons with very fine or thin coats

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KONG ZoomGroom Dog Grooming Brush

Best for Papillons with short coats or for use in the bath

The KONG ZoomGroom Dog Grooming Brush is ideal for Papillons with short coats or for use in the bath. The flexible rubber fingers massage while grooming, and remove loose hair on short coats. The brush can be used wet or dry.

✓ Gentle on skin
✓ Effective at removing loose hair
✓ Can be used in the bath

✕ May not be suitable for Papillons with curly or silky coats prone to matting

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FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool

Best for Papillons with thick undercoats

The FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool is ideal for Papillons with thick undercoats. The stainless steel deshedding edge reaches through the topcoat, and the FURejector button releases hair. The ergonomic handle is comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver.

✓ Effective at removing loose hair
✓ Reduces shedding
✓ Ergonomic handle

✕ May not be suitable for Papillons with curly or silky coats prone to matting

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Frequently asked questions

How often should I brush my Papillon?

It's recommended to brush your Papillon at least 2-3 times a week, with daily brushing during shedding season. This will help prevent matting and tangling, and reduce shedding.

What type of brush is best for a Papillon?

A slicker brush or a pin brush with flexible pins is ideal for a Papillon. These types of brushes are designed for curly or silky coats prone to matting, and will help gently work out tangles and mats.

Can I use a human brush on my Papillon?

No, it's not recommended to use a human brush on your Papillon. Human brushes are designed for human hair, and can be too harsh for a dog's coat. A dog-specific brush is designed to be gentle on skin and coat, and will help prevent matting and tangling.

How do I prevent matting and tangling in my Papillon's coat?

To prevent matting and tangling in your Papillon's coat, brush them regularly, ideally 2-3 times a week. Use a slicker brush or a pin brush with flexible pins, and work from the ends of the hair up to the roots. Be gentle, and take your time to avoid causing breakage or tangles.

Can I brush my Papillon when they're wet?

It's generally not recommended to brush your Papillon when they're wet, as this can cause matting and tangling. Instead, brush them when they're dry, or use a brush specifically designed for use in the bath.

For Papillon owners, the right brush can make all the difference in keeping their coat healthy and looking its best. The Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush is a top pick for its gentle on skin and effective at removing tangles and mats. Ultimately, the best brush for your Papillon will depend on their individual coat type and needs, so be sure to choose a brush that's designed for their specific coat type and shedding volume.

More for your Papillon

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