Chris Christensen 7.5 Inch Fine/Coarse Greyhound Style Buttercomb #000

The Chris Christensen #000 Buttercomb is a 7.5 inch greyhound-style metal comb with a fine end and a coarse end. The maker says to use it to check your work for mats and tangles after bathing, drying and brushing.

Who it suits

Owners of long coated, double coated and curly coated dogs who want to finish a brushing session by checking for tangles down to the skin. AKC advises following a slicker brush with a comb on double coats, and VCA says long-tooth combs suit long-haired dogs.

Key facts

• 7-1/2 inch spine, teeth 1-1/6 inch long (Chris Christensen)
• Coarse end (8 teeth per inch) for thicker, denser coats; fine end (11 per inch) for thin or fine coats (Chris Christensen)
• Solid brass core, steel teeth, nickel chrome finish (Chris Christensen)
• For double coats: slicker brush, then a comb, at least once a week (AKC)

What reviewers say

Two New York groomers interviewed by NBC Select named it a favorite: after brushing with a slicker, they go through the coat again with this greyhound-style comb, and its wide teeth comb through without snagging. NBC lists the higher price as the downside. We found no independent hands-on test of this exact comb.

Pros and cons

• Pro: Finds tangles a brush misses
• Pro: Fine and coarse ends in one comb
• Pro: Groomer favorite
• Con: Higher price than plain combs
• Con: A comb, not a brush: use it after brushing
• Con: No independent hands-on test found

Cautions

• Comb gently in sections; if the comb catches a tight knot, work it loose with your fingers or a slicker rather than pulling.
• 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.