One of the most typical grooming problems encountered by the dog owners is matted hair. In cases of negligence or when routine brushing is not done, the coat of a dog may begin to become entangled in tight knots, which are painful, unhealthy and hard to detach. The proper way of grooming a dog with matted hair does not only help keep your pet in a great shape but also helps avoid discomfort and skin problems.
This guide breaks the process down into simple steps, explaining everything from preparing the right tools to safely removing severe mats. Whether you’re a beginner or improving your home-grooming skills, these instructions will help you groom confidently and safely.
What Causes Matted Hair in Dogs?
It is possible to prevent matting in the future by knowing why the matting occurs.
Common causes include:
Infrequent Brushing
Long-haired dogs, curly hair dogs, and double-haired dogs need to be brushed regularly. In its absence, loose fur becomes tangled and creates mats very fast.
Moisture in the Coat
Wet fur is caused by baths, swimming or rain and unless the coat is brushed and dried the tangles will tighten.
Friction Areas
Mats commonly occur in places of high friction like:
- Behind the ears
- Under the collar
- Between the legs
- Under the arms
- Around the tail.
Shedding Cycles
In seasonal shedding, loose undercoat may get in between the topcoat and become thickly matted.
Why It’s Important to Remove Mats Promptly
Mats are not cosmetic; they are painful and even harmful.
Unattended treatment of mats can result in:
- Flaking and inflammation of the skin.
- Poor circulation of air to the skin.
- Bacterial or fungus infection.
- Restricted movement.
- More pain on pulling of the coat.
- In snarl knots, fleas and parasites lurk.
It is imperative to brush off a matted coat immediately after it would be very comfortable to the dog and very healthy.
How to Groom a Dog With Matted Hair
Here are some safe and step-by-step instructions on removing the mats without injuring your dog. Always be patient and easy. In case the mats are too tight or occupy a lot of space, then it is possible to find a professional groomer.
Step 1: Gather the Right Tools
With the proper equipment, it becomes much easier and less risky to do it, not to mention the fact that there is less likelihood of hurting your dog.
Essential Grooming Tools
- Dematting comb or rake.
- Slicker brush.
- Fine and wide-tooth steel comb.
- Spray or conditioner to detangle.
- Pet-safe clippers (with harsh mats).
- Round-tip scissors (only trim carefully).
- Positive reinforcement dog rewards.
The quality of tools used is to avoid hair breakage and to facilitate the process of grooming.
Step 2: Prepare the Dog and the Work Area
Find a quiet and comfortable place where the dog is not afraid. Make sure it is well lit so that you can see the mats well.
Tips for Preparing Your Dog
- You can enable your dog to smell the tools to calm down.
- Give them some treats and have a good association.
- Apply a grooming table or non-slip flooring.
- Make short sessions in case your dog is nervous.
- A dog that is relaxed is less difficult–and risky–to groom.
Step 3: Inspect the Coat Thoroughly
The first thing that you have to do before you start is to determine the severity of the mats.
Types of Mats
Light tangles: These are knots that are very loose.
Middle mats: Larger mats that might need a dematting tool.
Severe mats: Thick, felt-like areas that are in contact with the skin.
Inquire areas that may contain mats such as behind the ears and under the legs.
Step 4: Apply Detangling Spray
A dog safe detangling spray or conditioning mist or a leave-in conditioner will help make the mats soft and minimize breakage.
How to Apply
- Spray down the matted floors.
- Allow the product to rest in a couple of minutes.
- Do not oversoak, excess moisture will not improve tight mats.
This will help in making the process of removal easier to both you and your dog.
Step 5: Start With Your Fingers
Hand loosening of the mats before the tools are used is advisable. It is softer and minimises pulling.
Finger Dematting Tips
- With the help of your thumbs and fingers, you are going to separate the edges of the mat.
- Do not work inside out, work outside in.
- Cut big mats in small pieces.
Patience–this is a long process but is not as painful to the dog.
Step 6: Use a Slicker Brush to Work Through Loose Mats
After you have loosened the mats with your fingers, take a slicker brush and brush off any loose fur and work out little knots.
How to Brush Properly
- Brush with the direction of the growth of coats.
- Use short, gentle strokes.
- Keep the hair near the skin so as not to pull.
This assists in eliminating unnecessary shedding hair and new mats are formed.
Step 7: Use a Dematting Comb for Tight Mats
Dematting comb or dematting tool is usually required in case of more stubborn mats.
Safe Dematting Technique
- You should have your hand in between the skin and the mat to prevent causing the skin to pull.
- Saw through the mat with the tool gently.
- Work in small sections.
- Get out when the dog is uncomfortable.
Always pull a mat up–it is very painful and will hurt the skin.
Step 8: Trim Mats Only When Necessary
In case a mat is too narrow or tight or too close to the skin, it is probably the safest to trim or shave.
When to Cut the Mat
- When the mat is so stiff it can neither be opened by hand nor by comb.
- When it is on a flat position on the skin.
- When the dog is in distress or discomfort.
Preventing Matted Hair in the Future
After learning how to groom a dog with matted hair, it is much easier to prevent it.
Brush Regularly
Curly-coated or long-haired dogs might need brushing on a daily basis.
Schedule Professional Grooming
The majority of breeds are taken to a professional groom 4-8 times per month.
Keep the Coat Clean and Dry
After bathing or swimming, it is always important to dry the coat thoroughly.
Choose the Right Brush for Your Dog’s Coat Type
The various breeds will demand varying grooming equipment.
Use Detangling Sprays as Needed
These assist in the reduction of friction and knot prevention.
Monitor High-Friction Areas
Examine more thoroughly the armpits, ears and tail.
When to Seek Professional Help
Sometimes it is not safe and convenient to be groomed at home.
Request the help of a professional groomer in case:
- The matting covers huge parts of the body.
- Mats are so very tight or close to the skin.
- The dog is either aggressive or stressed.
- You’re unsure how to proceed.
Professional groomers have the tools and experience to remove severe mats safely.
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