Dandy & Body Brushes: Dust Out, Shine In for Your Horse's Coat

Dandy & Body Brushes: for shine and well-being

Dandy & body brushes are the workhorses of the grooming area. Once the curry comb has loosened the dirt, they lift dust and scurf out of the coat and spread the natural oils of the skin. This creates a healthy shine that keeps the coat supple. Soft brushes suit the head and legs, firmer ones the body and a thick winter coat. Wooden backs, plastic handles and natural hair are a matter of taste.

Body brush, dandy brush or face brush

The body brush has dense, fairly soft bristles and a hand strap. You use it with firm pressure in the direction of hair growth and clean it on the metal curry comb every few strokes. A dandy brush with stiff bristles removes coarse dirt and dried mud from the coat. For the face, use a small, very soft face brush. Brushes with goat hair are particularly gentle and work well as a finishing brush.

Materials and brush care

Natural hair takes up dust well and feels soft, while synthetic bristles are robust and dry more quickly. Ergonomic handles with a rubber coating sit well in the hand, even when wet. To keep the bristles in shape for a long time, knock the brushes out after grooming and wash them now and then in lukewarm water. Let brushes with a wooden back dry with the bristles facing down.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a body brush and a dandy brush?
The body brush has finer, dense bristles and picks up dust and scurf. The dandy brush is much stiffer and removes coarse dirt from the coat. Many riders use the dandy brush first and then the body brush.

How do I get more shine into the coat?
Shine comes mainly from within, from balanced feeding and good health. When grooming, thorough work with the body brush helps because it spreads the skin's natural oils. A soft cloth or a finishing brush at the end adds the final touch.

My horse does not like being brushed. What can I do?
Try a softer brush and less pressure, especially on the belly, flanks and legs. Some horses are simply ticklish in certain places. If your horse suddenly becomes very sensitive, have the back and skin checked by your vet.