Matts in your dog’s coat are not just unsightly; they can also cause discomfort or even lead to skin issues. Whether your dog has long or curly hair, matts can form from friction, dirt, or moisture.
Here’s how to manage and prevent them:
Tools
- A slicker brush or wide-tooth comb: These are essential for working through tangles gently.
- Detangling spray: This helps ease the brushing process by softening the matts and making them easier to work through.
- Blunt-ended scissors: In severe cases, you may need to carefully cut out stubborn matts in the coat.
The process
- Prepare the coat: Start by spraying a detangling spray onto the matted areas. This will reduce friction and make it easier to work through. Give this a few moments to work before moving onto the next step.
- Work gently: Using a slicker brush or wide-tooth comb, gently work through the mat from the outside, moving inward. Avoid pulling too hard, as this can hurt your dog.
- Cut only if necessary: If the mat is too severe to brush out, use blunt-ended scissors to carefully cut it out, but be mindful not to nick the skin.
- Regular brushing: The best way to avoid matts is through regular grooming. Brush your dog’s coat daily if they’re prone to tangles, especially around the ears, armpits, and belly.
Top tip
Give lots of praise and treats as a reward for your dog sitting still and allowing you to brush them and tackle the matts in their coat. This will make grooming easier in the long run as your dog will associate grooming with positive experiences. Just make sure to only reward when your dog is sitting still and allowing you to groom them (not when they are on a mission to escape the grooming brush); your dog will repeat the behaviour you reward.
Prevention is key
Routine care makes keeping your dog’s coat mat-free easier. Regular baths, combined with conditioning, can also prevent matting. If the mats become too overwhelming, it’s best to consult a professional groomer to avoid causing your pet any discomfort or injury.
Final thoughts
By staying on top of grooming, your dog’s coat will remain smooth, healthy, and matt-free!
