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Yorkies are small in size but big on coat care. That long, silky hair is what makes them so eye-catching — and so high-maintenance. Without the right tool, tangles can sneak up fast and turn grooming into a battle.
Table of Contents
Choosing the best brush for Yorkie coats can feel overwhelming, but we’ve narrowed it down to the top options that really work. This guide walks you through the best brush for Yorkshire Terrier grooming, the tools pro groomers swear by, and simple tips to keep your pup’s coat glossy and tangle-free.
| Best Overall | Best Slicker | Best For Matted Fur |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
| Hartz | Hertzko | WetBrush |
| View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon |
| Read Review | Read Review | Read Review |
Do Yorkies Really Need Daily Brushing?
Yorkshire Terriers have a single coat with fine, silky hair — very different from heavy-shedding double-coated breeds. This makes them popular with allergy sufferers (though no dog is 100% hypoallergenic).
Many Yorkie owners opt to cut their long hair much shorter and manageable, usually known as a teddy bear cut. The style of jacket you pick for your pup determines how long and often you need to groom them during each session.
- Silky, single-layer coat: Unlike double-coated breeds, Yorkies don’t shed heavily. But silky hair tangles easily, which means brushing isn’t optional.
- Coat length matters: Long coats need daily brushing, while short teddy bear cuts may only need every couple of days.
- Health perks: Brushing stimulates circulation, distributes natural oils, and keeps skin irritation at bay.
Are Yorkies Hypoallergenic?
Yorkies are often called hypoallergenic dogs because of their low shedding. But it’s a misconception that they don’t shed at all.
Every dog sheds, but a Yorkie’s shedding is much lower than that of other dogs, so some people with mild dog allergies can live with them. However, they still produce an allergy-inducing protein that can trigger people with dog allergies.
Different Types of Dog Brushes
There are a few different types of brushes available for all dogs and their different types of coats. Finding the right grooming tool is essential when it comes to grooming your Yorkie. Let’s look at what types of brushes are available and what type of coats they suit best.
Slicker Brush
Your Yorkie’s best friend when it comes to keeping tangles from turning into painful mats. For many owners, it’s the best brush for Yorkie hair day-to-day.
- Why it matters: Prevents mats before they start and keeps that signature Yorkie coat smooth and shiny.
- What it does: Fine, closely spaced pins glide through silky hair to remove tangles, debris, and light shed.
- Best for: Daily brushing, especially around the chest, legs, behind the ears, and belly.
Pin Brush
Similar in look to a slicker but with longer, spaced-out pins — better for fluffing than serious detangling. You can use a pin brush for a Yorkie, but a slicker brush is more effective.
- Why it matters: Adds a soft finish but won’t handle knots as effectively as a slicker.
- What it does: Flexible pins with rounded ends smooth the coat and add volume.
- Best for: Quick touch-ups between slicker sessions.
Bristle Brush
The gentlest option — perfect for polishing your Yorkie’s coat and redistributing natural oils.
- Why it matters: Keeps the coat glossy without irritating sensitive skin.
- What it does: Soft bristles glide over the hair’s surface, smoothing and adding shine.
- Best for: Finishing touches after detangling or for short teddy bear cuts.
Grooming Comb
Every Yorkie owner needs one — it’s the secret weapon for stubborn tangles. In fact, many groomers say it’s the best brush for Yorkshire Terrier coats prone to mats.
- Why it matters: Breaks up mats without yanking or breaking delicate hair.
- What it does: Wide teeth tackle small mats, while fine teeth neaten and smooth.
- Best for: Working through knots gently, especially behind ears and under legs.
Grooming Gloves
Perfect for Yorkies who hate being brushed the “traditional” way.
- Why it matters: Makes grooming feel like cuddling — less stress, more success.
- What it does: Silicone nubs on the gloves pick up loose hair and dirt while you pet.
- Best for: Nervous pups, bonding time, or a quick freshen-up between full grooms.
Rake Brush
Rake brushes are shaped like a “T” with tightly packed pins or bristles along the top, much like a garden rake. They are ideal for double-coated high-shedders as they remove built-up dead hair.
Skip the rake brush. Because they’re designed for thick double coats, they don’t work on Yorkies’ single-layer hair and can irritate their skin.
Quick Takeaway: If you buy just two tools, get a slicker brush (daily use) and a comb (for tangles and finishing). Add a bristle brush if you want extra polish.
Best Brushes For Yorkies
With so many grooming tools on the market, it can feel overwhelming to pick the right one for your Yorkie’s silky coat. To make it simple, we’ve rounded up the top brushes groomers and Yorkie parents swear by.
Each of these options is designed to handle tangles gently, protect sensitive skin, and keep your pup looking polished. Whether you’re dealing with a long show coat or a short teddy bear trim, you’ll find the right tool here.
Best Overall: Hartz Groomer’s Best Combo Dog Brush Review
View on Amazon | View on Chewy
If you only want to buy one brush for your Yorkie, this dual-sided option is the most versatile. One side features a slicker brush with fine stainless steel pins that remove tangles, dirt, and loose hair. The other side has nylon bristles that smooth the coat and help redistribute natural oils for a silky shine.
This brush works well for both long show coats and short teddy bear cuts, making it a smart all-in-one choice. The ergonomic handle also reduces hand strain during longer grooming sessions.
Key Features
- 2-in-1 design: slicker + bristle brush
- Stainless steel pins with rounded tips
- Nylon bristles add polish & shine
- Breather holes for smooth strokes
- Ergonomic, non-slip handle
Price
Best Slicker: Hertzko Self-Cleaning Dog Slicker Brush Review
Every Yorkie needs a slicker brush in their grooming kit, and this one balances effectiveness with ease of use. The fine, curved bristles glide through silky coats to remove tangles, dirt, and loose hair without irritating the skin.
The self-cleaning design makes grooming simple: press the button, the bristles retract, and the fur wipes right off. The ergonomic, anti-slip handle keeps your wrist comfortable, while the rounded pins provide a gentle massage that boosts circulation for a healthier, shinier coat.
Key Features
- Self-cleaning button for quick cleanup
- Curved, rounded bristles protect skin
- Removes tangles, dirt & loose hair
- Stimulates circulation for a glossy coat
- Comfortable, non-slip ergonomic grip
Price
Best For Matted Fur: WetBrush Smooth & Shine Detangler Dog Brush Review
View on Amazon | View on Chewy
This detangling brush is designed to make tackling tough knots and mats less stressful for both you and your Yorkie. It combines IntelliFlex plastic bristles that glide through tangles without pulling and natural boar bristles that lift dirt and add shine.
The rounded plastic tips are gentle on sensitive skin, while the dual-bristle design makes it effective on all coat lengths and styles — from long, flowing coats to shorter teddy bear cuts. It can also be used on wet or dry hair, making it a handy tool after bath time.
Key Features
- Dual bristles: IntelliFlex + natural boar
- Gently detangles without pulling
- Rounded tips protect skin
- Distributes natural oils for shine
- Works on wet or dry coats
- Durable, lightweight design
Price
Best Comb: Frisco Metal Dog Comb Review
A metal comb is an essential grooming tool for Yorkies, especially for working through tangles that brushes can’t handle. This sturdy comb has two sides: one with wide-set teeth for loosening knots and removing debris, and one with narrow-set teeth for smoothing and finishing.
The rounded tips protect your Yorkie’s sensitive skin, making it safe for daily use. It’s particularly useful for areas prone to mats, like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail. Lightweight but durable, this comb is a reliable addition to any Yorkie grooming kit.
Key Features
- Dual-sided: wide + narrow teeth
- Tackles tough tangles gently
- Smooths and neatens long hair
- Rounded tips protect skin
- Made from durable stainless steel
- Ideal for daily use
Price
Best Gloves: Mr. Peanut’s Hand Gloves Dog Grooming & Shedding Aid Review
View on Amazon | View on Chewy
For Yorkies that resist traditional brushes, grooming gloves can make the process feel like a cuddle session. These gloves use soft silicone bristles to pick up loose hair, dirt, and dander while you pet your dog. They also provide a gentle massaging effect that many pups find soothing.
Each set includes two gloves (left and right hand) with adjustable Velcro straps for a secure fit. They’re easy to clean — just peel off the collected fur or toss them in the washing machine. While they don’t replace a slicker or comb for heavy detangling, they’re excellent for keeping your Yorkie’s coat fresh between full grooming sessions.
Key Features
- Collects loose hair & surface debris
- Provides a gentle massage effect
- Includes gloves for both hands
- Adjustable fit with Velcro straps
- Machine washable for easy care
- Great for pups who dislike brushes
Price
6 Tips For Grooming Yorkies
Grooming isn’t as straightforward as it looks, especially if your Yorkie doesn’t like being groomed. There are a few simple steps to make their regime much more effortless.
1. Start Grooming Your Yorkie Puppy As Early As Possible
This is crucial if you want them to become accustomed to their important grooming regime. Although they aren’t large or powerful, you can bet your strong-willed Yorkie to put up a fight every time you get the brush out if they aren’t exposed to their grooming regimen from a young age. Make it a positive experience every time.
2. Selecting The Right Brush For Your Yorkie
Getting the best from your grooming regime requires the right tools, and it can also keep your Yorkie’s skin in the best condition. There’s no point buying a rake-style brush for your Yorkie, as they don’t shed, which could irritate their sensitive skin, too.
3. Use The Right Amount Of Pressure
When brushing your Yorkie, using the right amount of force is imperative. Too little, and you won’t pick up any dead hair or dirt, and you won’t spread their natural oils around. Too much, and you risk hurting your Yorkie’s skin or even scaring them. Use gentle, sweeping motions, and you should feel a slight resistance without scraping the skin.
4. Inspect Your Yorkie’s Hair And Skin
As you brush their hair, look for signs of irritation or infections such as rashes, lumps, and bumps. If you notice anything unusual, stop grooming them and contact your vet immediately. Although Yorkies are relatively healthy dogs, considering pet insurance can help offset the costs associated with emergency or unexpected long-term health care.
5. Rinse And Dry Your Yorkie Thoroughly
After washing and brushing them through, it’s essential to remove as much moisture as you can. Towel-dry their hair and use a blow dryer if they allow you to. Using a blow dryer helps to keep their hair soft, smooth, and tangle-free. Use the lowest heat setting and don’t hold it too close to them to avoid scalding or scaring them.
6. Make Grooming Time Enjoyable
Lastly, remember to make grooming a pleasurable experience so they are more likely to let you do it again. Even if they’ve been exposed to grooming from a young age, putting them off only takes one unpleasant experience. Praise them, stroke them, and give them treats too.
Managing Yorkie Shedding
Yorkies are not heavy shedders. They have a single-layered coat, unlike most other dogs with a double-layered one. Instead of shedding heavily during the shedding seasons, they shed lightly throughout the year.
Brushing is crucial for their health and helps remove loose and excess hair, which keeps your home looking tidy. It’s also a great way to bond with your beloved pup.
Remember Everything Else Grooming Related
Brushing your Yorkie’s coat is very important, as is everything else in their grooming regimen. And often, pup parents forget to do everything else to keep them healthy. Remember to bathe them, clean their teeth, and clip their nails. If there’s anything you’re unsure about, get advice from your vet or a professional groomer.
Yorkie parents, we want to know — which brush keeps your pup looking fabulous? Let us and other readers know in our comments!
