Most dog owners get into a comfortable brushing rhythm on the broad, easy surfaces — the back, the sides, the shoulders. Then comes the tail, the belly, and the legs, where the fur grows in different directions, the skin is thinner, and many dogs get squirmy. These tricky spots are exactly where loose undercoat and tangles love to hide, so skipping them means missing some of the most important grooming on your dog's body. Here is how to handle each area with confidence.
Why Tricky Spots Matter Most
The belly, armpits, backs of the legs, and base of the tail are friction zones: areas where the legs move against the body and fur rubs together constantly. That friction is what turns loose fur into mats. These areas also have thinner, more sensitive skin and less tolerance for rough handling, which is why many dogs flinch or pull away when you brush there. A gentle approach with the right tool makes all the difference.
The Tail
Tail fur tangles easily because it whips around and collects debris. Hold the tail gently at the base with one hand, and brush from the tip toward the base in small sections with the other. Never yank through a tangle; hold the fur above the knot so you are not pulling on the skin, and work it apart from the tip inward.
The Belly and Armpits
The belly is the most sensitive brushing zone on most dogs. Have your dog stand rather than roll over — many dogs tolerate belly brushing far better standing up, and you can reach everything by crouching beside them. Use the lightest possible pressure and short strokes. The armpits (where the front legs meet the chest) mat faster than almost anywhere else on the body, so check them every session and give them a few gentle strokes even when the rest of the coat looks fine. The Furbliss One-Click Deshedding Brush works well here because its fine teeth lift loose fur without needing pressure.
The Legs and Paws
Feathering on the backs of the legs traps loose undercoat and picks up burrs, mud, and debris on walks. Brush leg feathering downward in the direction of growth, supporting the leg gently. Between the toes, fur can mat into uncomfortable clumps — a few careful strokes with a small comb or the corner of your deshedding brush keeps these clear. If your dog pulls a paw away, do not chase it; let them reset, offer a treat, and try again.
Behind the Ears
The soft fur behind the ears is another classic matting spot, especially on long-haired breeds. It is thin-skinned and sensitive, so use minimal pressure and short strokes. Check behind the ears during every grooming session — mats here tighten quickly and sit right against the skin.
Practical Tips for Squirmy Dogs
- Brush tricky spots first or last? Try both. Some dogs tolerate sensitive areas better at the start when they are fresh; others do better once they have settled into the rhythm. Learn your dog's preference.
- Keep sessions short. Two minutes on the belly today beats a wrestling match that makes your dog dread grooming tomorrow.
- Reward generously. Tricky spots earn the best treats. Your dog will quickly learn that standing still for belly brushing pays well.
- Watch for flinching. A flinch means too much pressure, a tangle pulling, or possibly a sore spot worth checking — ease off and investigate gently.
Key Takeaways
- Friction zones — belly, armpits, behind ears, leg feathering — mat fastest and need the most attention.
- Use light pressure and short strokes on thin-skinned areas.
- Hold fur above tangles so you never pull directly on skin.
- Have your dog stand for belly brushing; most dogs prefer it.
Frequently Asked Questions
My dog will not let me brush his belly. What should I do?
Build up gradually: start with one or two gentle strokes paired with a high-value treat, then stop. Extend the session over days. Standing position, calm timing after exercise, and excellent treats solve most belly-brushing resistance.
Why do mats always form behind the ears?
The fur there is fine and soft, the area gets rubbed when the dog scratches or shakes, and moisture from the ears can contribute. A few gentle strokes behind the ears each session prevents most mats from forming.
Related reading
- Deshedding Bath Routine: Brush, Bathe, Brush Again
- Essential At-Home Grooming Kit: What You Actually Need in Canada
Tricky spots are no match for the right tool. The Furbliss One-Click Deshedding Brush reaches loose undercoat even in feathered, hard-to-reach areas, and the one-click button clears the bristles in a single press. Shop Furbliss grooming essentials at furbliss.ca.