How to Groom a Dog with Matted Hair

Hard
1 - 2 Hour
1 Month

Introduction

A matted dog is an unhealthy dog. Mats result in bacteria and debris being trapped against the skin, where they can cause infections and sores, or even burns, from the friction of mats rubbing and moisture and debris being trapped in sensitive areas. A matted dog may be in a significant amount of discomfort, and removing the mats is going to cause even more discomfort if not done carefully and correctly. A dog with mats may lick at and chew the mats in an effort to relieve discomfort and skin irritation under and around the mat, which can further contribute to skin disorders. Long-haired dogs are more prone to matting, as are dogs that spend a great deal of time outside where burrs, debris from underbrush, and exposure to water can quickly create tangles that become mats if not addressed quickly enough. A dog with parasites such as fleas will also chew at and interfere with his coat, which can cause mats to form. 

To address mats you will either need to untangle the mat if possible or, in some cases, remove the matted hair with scissors or clippers.

Dog's Perspective

Getting a matted dog that is probably already uncomfortable, and may be experiencing pain in the area of the mat, to sit still while you untangle or remove the mat can be challenging. From your dog's perspective, it hurts having his coat pulled by brushes and combs or the mat pulled back from skin to make room for scissors. Clippers can be used, but a dog that is not used to being clipped can be frightened of the clippers, and sensitive skin can still be hurt even with clippers. You will need to work slowly and carefully to avoid causing your dog discomfort and pulling the hair and mat unnecessarily.  Giving your dog high-value treats or a chew toy to distract him during the process may make the whole experience a little more pleasant.

The Remove Mat By Cutting Method

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Slicker Brush
Shampoo
Scissors
Pin Brush
Deshedder
Dematter
Comb
Clipper
Towel
Step
1
Set up work area
Secure your dog on a grooming table, or other area where you can easily reach your dog to clip or cut mats, and restrain your dog to prevent him moving. Using an assistant to help hold your dog may be advisable.
Step
2
Separate mats
Use a brush to separate mats and work existing mats as far from the skin as possible.
Step
3
Use short clipper blade or scissors
Use scissors or a clipper with a short blade, such as a #10 blade. Hold the clipper blade parallel or flat against your dog's body.
Step
4
Remove mats
Start at the neck and work toward the back of your dog. Go slow and be gentle, when you encounter a mat work slowly. Loosen mats with combs, scissors, de-matting tools, as much as possible. Mats often occur at the neck, under limbs, on the belly, or at the back end of your dog. Work carefully at these areas. Check the clippers frequently for overheating as you are working close to your dog's skin. Do the legs and belly last.
Step
5
Bathe and treat
Once mats are removed you can bathe the dog if needed, using a soothing shampoo if sores are present. If your dog has a fungal or bacterial skin infection or parasites, treat as instructed or prescribed by your veterinarian. Going forward, brush regularly to prevent new mats from developing.
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The Work Mats Out Method

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Spray
Slicker Brush
Shampoo
Pin Brush
Deshedder
Dematter
Comb
Towel
Step
1
Brush and separate mats
Brush your dog with a slicker brush to separate non matted hair away from matted hair and part down to the skin. Mats are commonly found on the neck, behind the ears, under limbs, on the belly, and around the tail of your dog.
Step
2
Apply detangler
Apply a commercial detangler appropriate for dogs to make the hair as slippery as possible before working on the mat. You can also use cornstarch. Rub the product into the mat and under all sides of the mat as much as possible.
Step
3
Work with fingers, cut as necessary
Try to work the mat out with your fingers as much as possible. If required, use a mat splitting tool to cut at the mat and break it up. Cut in the direction that hair grows.
Step
4
Use brush and comb
Work with a slicker brush, de-matter comb, or brush to break up remaining mat. Work in the direction of hair growth.
Step
5
Bathe and treat
Once mat is removed, you can bathe the dog if needed. Soothing oatmeal baths or shampoos designed to sooth skin can be used if sores are present. If fungal or bacterial skin infections are present, obtain appropriate medicine from a veterinarian. Brush regularly to prevent mats from reforming. Treat parasites if present.
Recommend grooming method?

Caution & Considerations

  • Try to prevent mats from occurring in the first place by regularly brushing your dog.

  • Invest in the correct tools, if you have a longhaired dog, to ensure you can address tangles and mats as soon as they occur.

  • Regularly remove burrs and debris in the coat that can form mats.

  • Regularly check and treat your dog for parasites to prevent mats.

  • Ensure that skin sores that occur under mats are medically treated if necessary with appropriate antifungal or antibiotic medications.

  • Be careful when working with clippers, that they do not overheat.

  • Use caution cutting mats out with de-matting tools or scissors; do not point scissor tips at the dog, keep tools parallel to the skin.


Conclusion

A matted dog is not just unsightly, he is uncomfortable and his health could be at risk from skin infections. However, your dog is not going to be super happy about the mat removal process. Use the best tools available and work slowly and carefully to remove mats. Better yet, prevent mats from occurring in the first place with regular grooming and removal of tangles, or shave your long haired beauty down before mats form. Clipping your dog may be advisable, depending on the situation. For example, a long-haired farm dog in the summer may spend a lot of time running through ponds, swamps, and fields,  and may be more comfortable clipped all over to prevent mats from forming.

Success Stories and Grooming Questions

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