KONG ZoomGroom Dog Brush

The KONG ZoomGroom is a rubber curry brush. KONG says its 3/4 inch rubber fingers reach through the coat to massage the skin and stimulate natural oil production, and that it works dry or with shampoo in the bath.

Who it suits

Smooth, short coated dogs such as boxers or pointers, and bath time on any dog. AKC says rubber brushes are best for short coats because the bristles will not get through long or thick coats.

Key facts

• 3/4 inch rubber fingers that massage the skin (KONG)
• Made of 100% TPE; use dry or with shampoo (KONG)
• KONG lists the Boysenberry color as Large, for dogs 30 to 65 lbs (KONG)
• Rubber brushes are best for short-coated dogs (AKC)

What reviewers say

Groomer Allie Akhmarova, interviewed by NBC Select, uses it on short-haired breeds that shed easily, both dry and at bath time; NBC notes it removes less hair or tangles than other brushes.

In a hands-on test, Your Best Digs found it removed only a few hairs from both its long and short haired test dogs. Treat it as a bath and massage brush for smooth coats, not a deshedder.

Pros and cons

• Pro: Gentle on the skin, good for smooth coats
• Pro: Works dry and in the bath with shampoo
• Pro: Easy to rinse clean
• Con: Removed only a few hairs in a hands-on test
• Con: Does not reach through long or thick coats (AKC on rubber brushes)
• Con: Not a detangler

Cautions

• Brush gently; KONG suggests a circular motion.
• If you find a mat that is tight against the skin or will not loosen with gentle brushing, do not cut it out with household scissors; PetMD advises asking a groomer or vet.