Smooth, shiny, and fluffy coats. Every pet owner would want those for their darling furbabies but keeping your dog’s coat healthy can sometimes feel like a full-time job. This is especially true for busybodies with limited time on their hands. That’s why matted fur becomes a real threat if the coat isn’t properly cared for. So, how does it happen? Let’s explore the causes and how regular visits to a dog groomer can help prevent and fix the problem.
What Causes Matted Fur?
Fur matting is the result of knotted or tangled hair that clumps together over time. Some dogs with certain coat types are more prone to it but any dog can experience them.
Lack of Brushing
Human hair gets tangled when it’s not brushed often. The same is true for dogs. Leaving fur alone makes it tangle easily, especially in areas like the ears, underarms, and tail where friction is high.
Shedding
Loose hair from shedding can get caught in the existing coat. This is a common problem for breeds with double coats like Golden Retrievers and Huskies. So make sure to visit your dog groomer during shedding season to manage it before it leads to serious tangles.
Wet Fur
Bathing your dog is important but you should dry them off properly. Matting is common if wet fur is left to airdry alone since water makes the hair stick together. It can form tough-to-remove knots that are tough to remove as it dries.
Friction
Dogs are covered in fur even in high-friction areas. So it only makes sense that mats often develop in those areas over time. These can be under the collar, between the legs, or behind the ears.
Movement and Activity
Active dogs are more likely to get mats due to the constant movement of their fur. Running, rolling, and playing can all cause hair to rub together, forming knots.
How Mats Affect Your Dog’s Health
Matted fur doesn’t just look bad. It can seriously harm your beloved pet if left unmanaged. These mats pull tightly on the skin and cause discomfort or pain. It can also lead to skin infections when it cracks from too much pulling. Mats can even restrict movement and hide underlying skin issues. These can range anywhere from cuts, sores, or parasites. But regular grooming can address these issues before they get worse.
How Grooming Helps Prevent Matted Fur
So what exactly do you need to do to prevent matting?
Regular Brushing
The easiest way to keep matted clumps of dog hair from becoming a problem is regular brushing. Different dogs have different coats and the type of brush choice you make is based on your dog’s coat. Slicker brush for long-haired dogs. Bristle brush for short-haired breeds Brushing removes loose fur and helps prevent tangles while cleaning dirt and debris.
Baths and Proper Drying
Bathing is important to keep a dog fur clean but it is necessary to dry your dog completely after soaking them. The combination of water and fur is just right for mats, too. Towel dry your dog after the bath and if they stay still, use a blow dryer to finish up. Professional dog groomers blast the coat with high-velocity dryers to prevent mats from forming by drying out their coats so thoroughly.
Trimming and Clipping
Trim your dog’s fur regularly if they have thick or long fur since it could easily mat. Some dogs also need to be cut short in certain areas like the belly and underarms. Figure out if it’s the case for your pet and ask the groomer for a schedule to make trimming as hassle-free as possible.
Dematting Techniques
If your dog already has mats, it’s essential to remove them carefully to avoid hurting your dog.
Brushing Out Mats
Small mats can often be brushed out with patience and the right tools. Start by holding the mat at the base, close to the skin, and gently working a wide-tooth comb through the tangles. This method prevents pulling on the skin and makes the process more comfortable for your dog.
Using Detangler Sprays
Detangling sprays are helpful for loosening up matted fur. These sprays can make the hair easier to comb through without causing discomfort. Be sure to choose a dog-friendly formula to avoid skin irritation.
When to See a Professional
Severe mats, especially those close to the skin, should be handled by a professional dog groomer. Trying to cut them out yourself can lead to accidental cuts or further discomfort for your dog. Groomers are equipped with the right knowledge and tools to safely and painlessly remove even the worst mats.
Grooming Schedule Based on Coat Type
The frequency of setting appointments with your groomer depends on your dog’s coat type.
- Short haired: Beagles, Boxes, and other dogs with short coats require less maintenance. But they can still benefit from weekly brushing to remove loose hair and prevent shedding.
- Double coated: Dogs with a thick undercoat need regular attention. These can be Huskies, Australian Shepherds and other similar breeds. Brush them several times weekly and schedule professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.
- Long haired: Dogs with long hair, like Shih Tzus or Poodles, require more frequent grooming. Brush them daily and take them to a dog groomer for trims and baths every 4-6 weeks.
Why Opt for Professional Grooming?
Although taking care of your dog at home will indeed help to maintain your dog’s coat, groomers have not only the tools but also the expertise to cut, clean and style any dog’s coat thoroughly to keep it healthy and mat-free. They often can find early skin or parasitic problems that are hidden under your furry friend’s coat. Last but not least, professionals can also recommend a grooming schedule that fits your dog perfectly.
Keep Your Pet Looking Fab Year-Round
Looking for a dedicated dog groomer? Daisy’s Pet Grooming ensures your dog’s fur stays well-groomed and healthy all the time. Whether it’s brushing or expert dematting services and more. Our salon offers dog owners solutions to keep their pets happy and looking fabulous. Schedule an appointment with us today for a pawsome experience!