Simple Methods to Deal With Matted Canine Hair

Matted dog hair is the worst! It’s ugly, dirty, sometimes painful, and once matted dog hair starts it can get out of control and become a health problem.

I have babysat a brother-sister team of Blue Picardy Spaniels. These royal dogs have lush, wavy feathers on their legs, undersides, and tails. This breed is also a ball of energy! Add this gorgeous feathered coat after a long hike of running and frolicking through creeks and you have some serious matted dog hair of your own!

The kicker – the siblings’ people firmly believed that their fur could not be cut. I would try to help by brushing them after our outdoor adventures, but I felt bad for the groomer if I put them down and had to remind the staff, “No cutting!” As if by magic, these two pups would be silky with , mat-free springs come back. How did these snow groomers deal with all that matted dog hair? Patience, the right tools, skills, and help from watchful dog parents.

Dog with crazy messy hair blowing in the wind. Photography © cynoclub | Getty Images.

What you need to know about dealing with matted dog hair

Here are some grooming tips for dealing with matted dog hair:

1. First, Train your dog to enjoy grooming so he’ll stand still long enough to get the mats out! Start brushing your puppy when he’s young, even when he doesn’t need him. Hand out praise and quality treats so he can combine grooming with happy things.
2. Pay close attention to areas that are easy to matte: behind the ears and legs, in the armpits, on the chassis and where his collar or halter rubs.
3. Prevent matted dog hair from forming. A detangler cream or spray will prevent the fur from clumping together and can be used before your puppy jumps into a river or lake to make it easier to brush out after a swim. Only use products made specifically for dogs.
4. When your puppy’s fur has grown Take a trip to the vet who is badly matted or has not been cared for in a while. Unkempt fur and extremely matted dog hair can cause skin irritation or infection that needs medical attention.
5. To learn that The best way to brush out your pup and the type of brush is to talk to your groomer. Your groomer will be happy to let you know because the better you groom yourself daily, the easier your job will be.
6. Don’t ignore the paws. Hair that grows between the pads can become matted. Keep your hair short. If you need a touch up in between professional grooming, purchase a couple of dog clippers. They’re easier than scissors on your dog’s delicate paws.
7. Hair clippers are also useful for keeping a puppy’s rear end neat and tidy. Between sitting and pooping, this area can quickly get messy. A clean area around the anus is worth a little embarrassment between you and your dog.
8. Good diet will help them have a healthy coat, which is less likely to mean matted dog hair. Look for omega-3 or fish oil in your pup’s diet and supplements. Of course, consult a veterinarian to find out how much is best to give your dog.

How do snow groomers deal with matted dog hair? Photography by Laures / Thinkstock.

Professional snow groomers for handling matted dog hair

1. Deana Mazurkiewicz IGMS, NCMG, IFMS President, Intellectual Groomers Association and Stylist at Pawsh By Deana in Zephyrhills, Florida. facebook.com/intgroome

1. Never bathe your dog if he has mats or kinky hair. Water acts like a sponge and only makes it stronger.
2. Use cornstarch to loosen matted dog hair. Rub a little on the mat to loosen it up, then brush it out.
3. Don’t assume the conditioner will remove or loosen mats. They need to be brushed and combed thoroughly before bathing.
4. NEVER try to cut out matted dog hair. The mats may be tighter than you think or have skin caught in them and you can cut your pet easily.

2. Windmere Kennels, St. Charles, Michigan; facebook.com/Windmerekennels

1. Brush! Dogs like poodles and goldendoodles that are considered non-shed don’t shed dead hair on their own. They need help by brushing with a good, smoother brush at least twice a week.
2. Regular visits to a professional snow groomer are a must to ward off matted dog hair! Every six to eight weeks is recommended.
3. Mats start at the base, not the top, of the hair. While your dog looks matt-free, hold your fingers on the nape of the hair to check for tangles and growls. Catching a potential mat before this happens will make it a lot easier to remove.
4. Research your breed’s specific needs for proper grooming. Depending on your breed, the coat or hair may require different practices to stay healthy and alive.

3. Vanessa Hoyt, Groomer Girls Pet Salon, Lawrenceville, Georgia. Facebook.com/groomergirlspetsalon

1. Always work on small sections, from the ends of your hair to your skin.
2. Always use a good conditioner. Demating can lead to serious harm even if done correctly.
3. Always use cooler warm water as a quick rinse as the last thing you do in the tub. This helps seal the hair shafts. Warmer water leaves them open, making hair prone to breakage and damage. Broken and damaged hair tangles faster.
4. Always use a finishing conditioning spray.

Top photo: © Tierfotoagentur | Alamy Stock Photo.

Originally published March 27, 2018.

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