Why is my dog matted? How to prevent mats between grooms
Matting is one of the most common things I see on the grooming table. Here's why it happens, why it matters, and the simple routine that stops it.
Mats are tight clumps of tangled hair that knot together close to the skin. They often start as a tiny tangle you can barely see and, if they're not brushed out, grow into a solid patch of felted fur. Curly and wavy coats like cockapoos, poodles and doodles are especially prone to them, but any dog with a medium or long coat can get matted.
Why mats are more than a bad hair day
Matting isn't just about looks. Mats pull on the skin every time your dog moves, which can be really uncomfortable. They also trap moisture, dirt and heat against the skin, which can lead to soreness and irritation underneath. A matted coat can hide problems like grass seeds, sores or parasites too.
Where mats usually form
Mats love anywhere that rubs, moves or stays damp. Check these spots first:
- Behind and under the ears
- Under the collar or harness
- The armpits and chest
- The backs of the legs and the "trousers"
- Around the tail and bottom
- Between the toes and paw pads
How to prevent matting at home
Brush down to the skin
The most common reason I see matting in well loved dogs is brushing that only skims the top of the coat. The surface looks lovely, but the tangles are hiding underneath. Use a slicker brush to work through the coat in small sections, then go back over with a metal comb. If the comb glides through from the skin to the tips, you've got it.
Groomer's tip: lift the coat with one hand and brush the hair underneath it, working your way up a section at a time. This is called line brushing and it's the best way to reach the skin.
Little and often
A few minutes every couple of days is far better than one long, stressful session once a fortnight. Keep it positive with plenty of praise and treats, especially with puppies.
Dry the coat properly
Wet and damp hair tangles very quickly. After walks, baths or a swim, dry your dog thoroughly and brush them once they're dry. My winter grooming tips have more on this.
Take off harnesses and coats at home
Constant rubbing from a harness, collar or dog coat is a big cause of matting. Take them off when you're home and brush those areas regularly.
Keep up with regular grooms
I recommend a full groom every 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the breed of your dog. Regular grooms keep the coat at a manageable length and catch any tangles before they become a problem.
What happens if my dog is matted when they come in?
If your dog is matted, their coat will have to be clipped short. Brushing out tight mats is painful and stressful, so a shorter clip is the kindest option for them. The good news is that hair grows back. We can then grow their coat back and get the look you'd like, and I'll show you how to care for your dog's coat at home so it stays tangle free.
If you're worried your dog's coat is getting matted, get in touch and I'll be happy to help.
Izzy is a City & Guilds Level 2 and 3 qualified groomer, a BIGA member and an award winner at multiple dog grooming competitions, including competing at Crufts. She runs Izzy's Groom Room in Little Totham, near Maldon.
