10 Best Brushes For Havanese Dogs in 2026

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The Chris Christensen Baby G Slicker Brush earns our Best Overall pick because its extra-long, angled pins reach deep into a Havanese double coat to remove undercoat and tangles faster than standard slickers. For puppies and sensitive skin, the Warren London Gentle Touch Slicker Brush offers a softer touch, while the PETHROOM Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush wins for owners who want quick cleanup between grooming sessions.

Havanese coats are unique, a silky outer layer over a soft, dense undercoat that mats easily if neglected. Finding a brush that reaches both layers without irritating sensitive skin is the real challenge, especially with a breed prone to tear stains and delicate facial hair.

We built this guide by analyzing manufacturer specifications, studying patterns in owner feedback, and consulting expert grooming resources. Our goal is to help you match the right brush to your Havanese’s coat type, your grooming routine, and your budget, without guesswork.

Top 10 Brushes For Havanese Dogs in the Market

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The Best Brushes For Havanese Dogs, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Chris Christensen Baby G Slicker Brush

Chris Christensen Baby G Slicker Brush
Pin typeAngled, extra-long
Pin density30% more pins than other slickers
Pad typeFlexible cushioned
HandleNon-slip grip, extreme curved back
OriginHandmade in Germany
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What We Like

  • 30% more pins for faster detangling
  • Extra-long angled pins reach deep undercoat
  • Flexible cushioned pad glides gently through coat
  • Non-slip handle reduces hand fatigue

Trade-offs

  • Small size limits use on larger Havanese coats
  • No self-cleaning mechanism; hair stays trapped in brush
  • Premium build means higher investment for a single brush

With 30% more pins than other slickers, this brush works 30% harder for you, so it removes trapped undercoat with fewer strokes and reaches deep into curly coats to tease out hidden mats. The extra-long angled pins are set in a flexible cushioned pad that lets the brush head flex softly around a dog’s curves, so you get thorough detangling without scraping the skin. For anyone who grooms regularly and wants a tool that cuts down session time while staying gentle, this slicker does the heavy lifting without the drama.

The trade-off is that you’re paying for a handmade German tool with no self-cleaning gimmick; hair collects in the pins and you have to pick it out by hand, which slows down a quick touch-up. Compared to the PETHROOM Self-Cleaning Slicker, which has a one-touch hair release mechanism, the Baby G demands a bit more cleanup between dogs. But if your dog needs regular dematting and you value pin density and a fatigue-free grip over convenience, this brush earns its place as the daily driver.

Best for: Owners who groom frequently and want a fast, gentle slicker for detangling and undercoat removal. Not ideal for those who prefer a self-cleaning brush or need a larger size for full-body work on bigger breeds.

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#2Best Dematting Brush

Chris Christensen Ice Slip Dematting Brush

Chris Christensen Ice Slip Dematting Brush
Pin Length20 mm
PinsRounded, stainless steel
Handle MaterialErgonomic Beechwood
OriginHandmade in Germany
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What We Like

  • Rounded pins won't scratch or irritate skin
  • 20mm pins glide through mats without pulling coat
  • Handmade in Germany with quality Beechwood handle
  • Designed for hard-to-reach areas like armpits and ears

Trade-offs

  • Pin brush only, not for heavy undercoat removal
  • No self-cleaning mechanism; pins must be cleaned manually

The 20mm pin length lets you reach through dense coat to tease out mats without yanking at the skin, while the rounded stainless steel pins stay stable in the firm base. That means you can work on tangles behind ears and under armpits without turning grooming into a battle. The pins are rounded for comfort on your pet’s skin and coat, making it gentle enough for everyday use, and they will not pull or tug at the coat. Owners report it works well as a preventative and maintenance brush for daily use.

This is a pin brush, not a slicker brush. It handles tangles and light mats beautifully, but if a dog has a thick, packed undercoat from missed grooming sessions, you’ll need a slicker brush to lift that out first. The Ice Slip also lacks a self-cleaning mechanism, so you’ll be picking hair out of the pins by hand, a small annoyance for the precision it gives. For owners who groom regularly and want a brush that respects a sensitive dog’s patience, this is the one to reach for.

Best for: Owners who groom frequently and want a gentle, precise dematting brush that won't punish a sensitive or wiggly dog. Not ideal for dogs with heavy undercoat buildup that requires a slicker brush first.

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#3Best For Puppies & Sensitive Skin

Warren London Gentle Touch Slicker Brush

Warren London Gentle Touch Slicker Brush
Weight0.2 pounds
Head size4 x 2 inches
Pin typeSoft pins
Target coatFine & soft coats
UseEveryday coat care
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What We Like

  • Soft pins for sensitive skin
  • Compact 4 x 2 inch head
  • Lightweight at 0.2 pounds
  • Designed for small breeds

Trade-offs

  • Small head slows full-body brushing
  • Pins too soft for thick or matted coats

The 4 x 2 inch head is compact enough to reach a small dog’s face, legs, and chest without an overly aggressive feel. The soft pins lift loose fur and brush through light tangles, making it a gentle option for daily grooming. It suits owners who want a maintenance tool for a puppy or a small dog with sensitive skin, not a brush for heavy matting.

Speed is the main compromise here. A brush this gentle and this compact won’t power through a matted coat or cover a full-grown small dog in a few passes. If a dog already has tangles, you may need a dematting tool first. But for a puppy who’s still learning to stand still for grooming, the Warren London’s light touch helps make the experience comfortable.

Best for: Puppies and small dogs with fine or soft coats who need gentle daily brushing. Not ideal for dogs with existing mats or heavy tangles.

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#4Best Versatile Slicker Brush

POODLIE Poodle Pet Slicker Brush

POODLIE Poodle Pet Slicker Brush
Dimensions7.0 x 3.0 x 1.0 in
Weight0.2 lb
Pin MaterialRust-resistant stainless steel
Pin TipsRounded
HandleNon-slip ergonomic
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What We Like

  • Rounded stainless steel pins protect sensitive skin
  • Non-slip ergonomic handle for control
  • Fine pins reach undercoat to remove loose hair
  • Works on long, short, curly, and fine coats

Trade-offs

  • At 7 inches, it's longer than mini slicker brushes
  • No coated tips for extra-gentle grooming on very sensitive skin
  • Not designed specifically for tiny faces or paws

The rounded stainless steel pins glide through the coat while reaching the undercoat to remove loose hair before it sheds. At 0.2 pounds with a non-slip ergonomic handle, you get enough control to work around ears and legs without your hand cramping halfway through. It handles daily grooming and light mat removal, which is what owners of long-haired breeds need when tangles form behind the ears.

At 7 inches long, this brush covers more area than a mini slicker like the Paw Brothers Mini (4.6 inches), so it speeds up grooming on larger sections of the body. The rounded stainless-steel pin tips glide through sensitive areas without scratching, which makes it safe for pets with delicate skin, including seniors. For most owners who want one brush that works from head to tail without switching tools, this is a practical middle ground.

Best for: Owners of long-haired breeds who want one slicker brush for daily grooming and light detangling across the whole body. Not ideal for owners who need an ultra-small brush for precise work on a puppy's face or paws.

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#5Best Mini Slicker For Detail Work

Ryan's Pet Supplies Paw Brothers Mini Slicker Brush

Ryan's Pet Supplies Paw Brothers Mini Slicker Brush
Size4.75" x 2.25" x 1.5"
Pin MaterialStainless Steel
Head TypeFlexible
Weight0.1 pounds
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What We Like

  • Soft pins gentle on sensitive skin
  • Flexible head reaches tricky areas
  • Mini size ideal for face and paws

Trade-offs

  • Too small for full-body grooming on larger Havanese
  • Not suitable for thick or heavily matted coats

At just 0.1 pounds and 4.75 inches long, this brush is built for precision, not power. The stainless steel pins are intentionally soft and the head flexes to follow your dog’s contours, which means you can work around a small dog’s eyes, ears, and paw pads without the usual flinching. The mini size is designed for small pets or for use on specific areas of the coat, such as the face or paws.

This mini slicker won’t replace a full-size brush for a thorough coat session. A Havanese with a thicker double coat will still need something like the Chris Christensen Baby G for the heavy lifting on the body and legs. But for detail work on a small dog that hates having its face touched, the Ryan’s Pet Supplies mini slicker earns its spot in the grooming drawer, it’s a specialist, not a generalist.

Best for: Small dog owners who want a gentle, precise brush for sensitive areas like the face and paws. Not ideal for tackling heavy mats or full-body brushing on a large dog.

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#6Best Self-Cleaning Slicker

PETHROOM Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush

PETHROOM Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
Pin count306 dual-layer pins
Pin tipsRounded, coated
Weight0.2 pounds
Dimensions5.9 x 3.9 x 2.0 inches
Self-cleaningOne-touch button
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What We Like

  • 306 coated pins for gentle detangling
  • One-touch self-cleaning saves time
  • Soft silicone non-slip grip
  • Lightweight at 0.2 pounds

Trade-offs

  • Small brush head means more passes on larger dogs
  • Not effective for heavy undercoat without separate rake

Pressing a button releases trapped hair from the 306 dual-layer pins in seconds, so you never have to pick fur out with your fingers. The rounded, coated tips glide through fur without scratching or pulling, making this brush gentle enough for sensitive spots like the face and paws, even on puppies. It keeps loose hair off your furniture and clothes with minimal cleanup effort.

The brush head is compact at about 5.9 inches long, so you’ll make more passes on a large dog than you would with a bigger slicker. For heavy undercoat, the manufacturer recommends adding a dedicated undercoat rake. Owners who want quick daily grooming and easy cleanup will appreciate this tool, but those dealing with thick mats may need a dematting brush as a second step.

Best for: Owners who want a gentle, self-cleaning slicker for daily grooming and quick cleanup. Not ideal for heavy undercoat removal or owners who prefer a larger brush head for faster coverage.

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#7Best Eco-Friendly Pin Brush

BioSilk Dog Pin Brush

BioSilk Dog Pin Brush
Length9 inches
Width2 inches
Head TypeSpiral flex oval
Pin TipsRounded
Build MaterialSustainable plant-based
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What We Like

  • Spiral flex head contours to dog's body
  • Rounded-tip pins for gentle detangling
  • Use wet or dry for flexibility
  • Eco-friendly plant-based construction

Trade-offs

  • At only 2 inches wide, covers small area per stroke
  • No slicker-style fine pins for Havanese undercoat
  • Requires brushing 3-4 times a week for best results

A 9-inch brush with a spiral flex oval head that contours to the dog’s curves sounds like a gimmick until you’ve tried to brush a dog who squirms the whole time. The rounded-tip pins offer a gentle feel as the brush moves through the coat, and because you can use it wet or dry, it fits into bath day or a quick couch-side session. The sustainable plant-based build is a feature for those who want a greener grooming tool, and it keeps the coat manageable between full grooming appointments.

Reach is the main limitation here. At only 2 inches wide, each pass covers a small strip of coat, so brushing a full dog takes more strokes than with a wider brush. That extra time matters if the dog has a thick or mat-prone coat. But for daily maintenance on a dog with moderate tangles, this brush does the job with a plant-based construction.

Best for: Eco-conscious owners who want a gentle, body-contouring pin brush for regular Havanese detangling. Not ideal for heavy matting or owners who prefer a wider brush for faster grooming sessions.

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#8Best Small Breed Slicker Brush

Coastal Pet Li'l Pals Slicker Brush

Coastal Pet Li'l Pals Slicker Brush
Dimensions3.25" x 7.25"
Weight0.1 pounds
Bristle tipsPlastic-coated
Bristle typeFlexible wire pins
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What We Like

  • Plastic-coated tips protect sensitive skin
  • Flexible wire pins contour to the body
  • Lightweight at 0.1 pounds for easy handling
  • Compact size suited for small breeds

Trade-offs

  • Small brush head means more passes on a full coat
  • No dematting feature for heavy tangles

Weighing only 0.1 pounds, this brush is light enough to use one-handed without tiring, and its compact frame fits easily in a grooming bag or drawer. The flexible wire pins curve along a dog’s body, so you can work through tangles without poking or scraping. Plastic tips on each bristle protect sensitive skin, making it a gentle option for puppies or small breeds that need regular brushing.

The small brush head means you’ll need more strokes to cover a full coat compared to a larger slicker brush such as the Chris Christensen Baby G (which weighs 0.0 pounds but has no listed dimensions). That extra time adds up if the dog has a thick or mat-prone coat. For a dog that stays on top of comb-outs, this brush gives you the precision and softness a small breed needs without the bulk that can make grooming awkward.

Best for: Owners of small dogs or puppies who prioritize gentle, skin-safe brushing for regular coat maintenance. Not ideal for those needing a wide brush to quickly work through heavy matting.

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#9Best Gentle Massage & Shedding

MAEELOU Small Dog Brush

MAEELOU Small Dog Brush
Weight0.1 pounds
Bristle TypeSoft bristles
Target BreedsSmall dogs (Teddy, Yorkies, Maltese, Shih Tzu, Chihuahua)
UseDaily grooming, massage, bath, debris removal
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What We Like

  • Soft bristles for gentle massage
  • Reduces shedding and tangling
  • Multi-functional: grooming, bath, debris removal
  • Lightweight at 0.1 pounds

Trade-offs

  • Small size limits use on larger dogs
  • Soft bristles cannot remove mats or tangles

Weighing only 0.1 pounds, this brush is light enough for precise control on small breeds like Teddy, Yorkies, Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Chihuahua where a gentle touch is key. The soft bristles massage the skin and promote blood circulation while lifting loose hair, so regular use reduces shedding without irritating sensitive skin. It handles daily combing, bath time, and even picking up dust and dirt, making it a straightforward tool for keeping a small dog’s coat neat between more serious grooming sessions.

The downside is that soft bristles can’t break apart mats or tangles. If a dog develops knots, a slicker brush such as the Chris Christensen Baby G would be needed for that job. But for a dog that tolerates brushing and just needs a gentle daily once-over to stay comfortable and tidy, the MAEELOU does exactly what it promises without any fuss.

Best for: Owners of small, soft-coated dogs like Teddy, Yorkies, Maltese, Shih Tzu, and Chihuahua who want a gentle daily brush for massage and shedding control. Not ideal for dogs with heavy matting or thick undercoats.

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#10Best for Sensitive Skin & Puppies

Pet Teezer Puppy Essential Dog Brush

Pet Teezer Puppy Essential Dog Brush
Weight0.1 pounds
Dimensions4.9 x 2.2 x 2.2 inches
Teeth typeUltra-soft two-tier polymer
UseWet or dry fur
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What We Like

  • Ultra-soft two-tier polymer teeth
  • Extra gentle detangling for sensitive skin
  • Lightweight at 0.1 pounds
  • Doubles as a bath brush

Trade-offs

  • Small size limits coverage on larger dogs

Weighing only 0.1 pounds, this brush is light enough for extended grooming sessions without wrist strain. The ultra-soft two-tier polymer teeth use longer teeth to detangle, remove dirt, and reach the undercoat, while shorter teeth smooth and protect against matting. It works on both wet and dry fur, so you can use it during bath time with shampoo for a single-tool grooming routine.

The soft polymer teeth are gentle by design, which means they won’t tackle serious mats or heavy tangles as aggressively as a slicker brush with stiffer pins. For daily maintenance on a puppy or a dog with sensitive skin, the brush’s light touch and palm-friendly shape make it easy to use consistently. Regular brushing is key to keeping a coat in good condition.

Best for: Puppy owners and dogs with sensitive skin needing a gentle daily brush; not ideal for dogs with existing heavy mats or tangles.

How We Evaluated Brushes For Havanese Dogs

Our research started with the specific anatomy of a Havanese coat, a double layer that requires tools capable of reaching the undercoat without scratching the skin. We examined pin length, pin tip design, brush head size, and handle ergonomics across dozens of models, relying on manufacturer documentation and expert grooming guides.

We prioritized four criteria that matter most for Havanese owners. Pin design was first: rounded or coated tips prevent skin irritation, while angled pins improve undercoat penetration. Brush size came second, a head too large misses detail work on faces and paws, but one too small makes full-body grooming tedious. Handle comfort ranked third because daily brushing sessions demand a non-slip, fatigue-reducing grip. Finally, we considered cleaning ease, since Havanese coats shed hair that clogs brushes quickly.

This is a research-led evaluation, not a hands-on test. We synthesized data from product specs, expert round-ups, and consistent owner reports to identify the tools that solve the specific problems Havanese owners face: matting, sensitive skin, and the need for a daily brushing routine that doesn’t feel like a chore. For a deeper look at our full methodology, check out our complete guide to Havanese brushes.

What To Look For In Brushes For Havanese Dogs

Choosing the right brush for your Havanese comes down to understanding the coat’s double-layer structure and your dog’s tolerance for grooming. Here is what matters most.

Focus on pin tip safety, brush head size for your dog’s body, and handle comfort for your hand. A brush that hurts your dog or tires you out will not get used daily.

Pin Design and Safety

The Havanese has a silky outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat that traps loose hair. Pins must be long enough, at least 20mm, to reach the underlayer, but tips must be rounded, coated, or polished to avoid scratching the skin. Slicker brushes with angled pins (like the Chris Christensen Baby G) lift undercoat more efficiently than straight-pin designs.

For dematting, look for pins spaced wider apart to slide through tangles without pulling. If you are new to grooming, our guide to choosing the right brush breaks down pin types and their specific uses.

Brush Head Size and Coverage

A Havanese is a small breed, but their full coat covers a surprising amount of surface area. A brush head that is too small, under 3 inches wide, will require many passes for a full-body groom, which can test your patience and your dog’s. A head that is too large cannot reach the delicate areas around the eyes, ears, and paws.

Many owners keep two brushes: a medium slicker for the body and a mini brush for detail work. For more on this, see our review of slicker brushes for size comparisons.

Handle Comfort and Grip

Daily brushing means your hand will be holding the brush for some time. Non-slip rubber or silicone handles reduce hand fatigue, especially important if you groom multiple dogs or have arthritis. Weight also matters, a brush under a few ounces is easy to maneuver around a small dog’s body, while heavier brushes can cause wrist strain during longer sessions.

  • Choose a brush with rounded or coated pin tips to protect your Havanese’s sensitive skin.
  • Match brush head size to your dog’s body: medium for the body, mini for face and paws.
  • Look for a non-slip handle if you groom for an extended period.
  • Consider a self-cleaning mechanism if your dog sheds heavily or you groom daily.
  • Keep a separate dematting tool on hand for tangles in the armpits and behind the ears.

A good rule: if the brush hurts your hand after one session, it will collect dust in the drawer.

Brushes For Havanese Dogs Compared

The table below compares all ten brushes by key features, pin type, head size, weight, and best use, so you can see at a glance which tool fits your Havanese’s needs.

ProductPin TypeWeightDimensions
Chris Christensen Baby G Slicker BrushAngled, extra-long0.0 poundsN/A
Chris Christensen Ice Slip Dematting Brush20 mm0.0 poundsN/A
Warren London Gentle Touch Slicker BrushSoft pins0.2 pounds4 x 2 inches
POODLIE Poodle Pet Slicker BrushRust-resistant stainless steel0.2 lb7.0 x 3.0 x 1.0 in
Ryan's Pet Supplies Paw Brothers Mini Slicker BrushStainless Steel0.1 pounds4.75" x 2.25" x 1.5"
PETHROOM Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush306 dual-layer pins0.2 pounds5.9 x 3.9 x 2.0 inches
BioSilk Dog Pin BrushN/A0.1 pounds9 inches long, 2 inches wide
Coastal Pet Li'l Pals Slicker BrushFlexible wire pins0.1 pounds3.25" x 7.25"
MAEELOU Small Dog BrushSoft bristles0.1 poundsN/A
Pet Teezer Puppy Essential Dog BrushUltra-soft two-tier polymer0.1 pounds4.9 x 2.2 x 2.2 inches

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of brush is best for a Havanese dog?

A slicker brush with long, angled pins is the most effective tool for a Havanese’s double coat. The pins reach the soft undercoat to remove loose hair before it mats, while rounded tips protect the sensitive skin beneath. Many owners also keep a pin brush for finishing work and a dematting tool for stubborn tangles.

How often should I brush my Havanese?

Havanese coats require daily brushing to prevent matting, especially behind the ears, in the armpits, and around the collar area. Skipping even two days can allow small tangles to tighten into mats that require cutting out. A consistent grooming schedule keeps the coat healthy and reduces the need for professional dematting.

Can I use a human hairbrush on my Havanese?

No. Human hairbrushes lack the pin length and spacing needed to penetrate a Havanese’s double coat, and their tips are often too sharp for dog skin. Using a human brush can also fail to remove the undercoat, leading to mats that form close to the skin where they are painful and hard to remove.

What is the difference between a slicker brush and a pin brush?

A slicker brush has fine, closely spaced wires bent at an angle, making it ideal for removing undercoat and detangling. A pin brush has wider-spaced, straight pins with rounded tips, better for finishing and smoothing the outer coat without removing undercoat. Havanese owners typically use both: a slicker first, then a pin brush for a polished look.

How do I clean a slicker brush after grooming a Havanese?

Use a comb or your fingers to pull hair out from between the pins, working from the base outward. For brushes without a self-cleaning mechanism, soak the brush in warm water with a drop of mild shampoo every few weeks to remove oil and debris. Self-cleaning slicker brushes, like the PETHROOM model, use a sliding button to push hair off the pins in seconds.

The Bottom Line

The Chris Christensen Baby G Slicker Brush is our Best Overall pick for Havanese owners who groom frequently and want a fast, gentle tool that reaches the undercoat without irritating the skin. Its extra-long angled pins and cushioned pad make daily detangling noticeably quicker, and the non-slip handle keeps your hand comfortable through full-body sessions.

If you are grooming a puppy or a dog with especially sensitive skin, the Warren London Gentle Touch Slicker Brush offers a softer touch that builds positive associations with brushing. For owners who prefer quick cleanup and a lighter tool, the PETHROOM Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush saves time between sessions and works well for daily maintenance.

The single most important factor in keeping a Havanese’s coat healthy is consistency, use the right brush every day, and you will prevent mats before they start. For a broader look at tools that work across similar coat types, our brushes for long-haired dogs guide covers additional options that suit the Havanese’s silky texture.