How to Prevent Dog Hair from Matting
Need regular grooming services?
Introduction
Missy and Moe are two young, Rough Collie littermates that belong to different families in the same farming neighborhood. Missy is always covered in thick mats that are uncomfortable and cause sores on her skin. Her family routinely has to pay to have the mats clipped off and her sores treated. Moe, on the other hand, has no mats!. He has long, flowing, soft fur in great condition and looks just like Lassie.
What is the difference? Why is Missy a matted mess, and Moe a manicured diva?
Moe’s owners take the time to prevent his lovely sable locks from matting! As a result, Moe looks great and feels great, with no moisture is getting trapped against his skin below the mats, and he has no skin sores or hot spots as a result. The neighbor kids love to pet Moe, but poor Missy is always a mess.
Dog's Perspective
The Brush Daily Method
The Bathe Regularly Method
Caution & Considerations
When bathing, use a non-slip mat to prevent injury.
Use warm, but not hot, water for bathing.
Get advice from experts on what products and grooming tools are appropriate for your dog’s hair type.
Avoid pulling your dog’s hair and creating a negative association, which will make future grooming more difficult. Use patience and take breaks as often as necessary.
Keep grooming schedule up regularly to prevent tangles from forming, making grooming more uncomfortable for your dog.
A good diet and fish oil supplements will also improve your dog’s hair coat health and prevent mats.
Be careful when cutting knots out with scissors so as not to injure your dog, do not point scissor tips at your dog.
Conclusion
Success Stories and Grooming Questions
Grooming Questions & Answers
Kaylee
The hair on her tail is very matted to the skin. How can I detangle without hurting her?
0 Dog owners recommended
Hi Sharon, sometimes the only way to get rid of a tight tangle like that is to cut the mat out. Don't try to get close to the skin. Cut the outer edge of the mat and see if it works its way out over the day. If not, cut a bit more. You do not want to cut Kaylee's skin, so you have to work slowly. Alternatively, take Kaylee to the groomer who may have a product that can loosen the knot - or, they can do the cutting for you. Once the mat is removed, give Kaylee a gentle brushing each day to prevent knots. Good luck!
Best way to remove mats from legs and face?
0 Dog owners recommended
Thank you for the question and the picture of cute little Belle. These mats easily form, I know. I have a dog who mats, too. I typically have to cut the mats out if they get too tangly. (Note: once they are removed, brush Belle a few times a week to prevent them from returning.) You can try a detangling spray, and then separate the mats to trim with the scissors, or comb out if possible. If the mats are too thick, it's best to cut them and not worry about how she looks until the fur grows in. It won't be long and she will be more comfortable in the meantime. Take a look at this link for help: https://wagwalking.com/grooming/groom-a-dog-with-matted-hair All the best to you and Belle!
