Matted coats in dogs: why they form and how to prevent them
In my years of working with dogs of many breeds I have learned that mats are one of the most common problems owners face.
But mats do not always mean the dog is poorly cared for. Sometimes they come precisely from the wrong kind of care, even when the owner bathes and brushes the dog regularly.
Why do mats form?
One of the most common causes is a mix of moisture, friction and too little brushing.
For example: the dog comes back from a walk, its paws are washed, it is towelled off and let go. But the coat stays damp, and after a few rounds of this it starts to tangle.
Or the dog is bathed at home and left to dry on its own. With some coat types this can end in dense, felt-like mats.
Coats tangle most often behind the ears, in the armpits, in the groin, on the legs, chest and belly, and under a collar, harness or clothing.
So it is important to understand: a clean coat is not necessarily a well-groomed coat.
Do you have to brush your dog every day?
Not necessarily! What matters is doing it correctly, regularly and in a way that suits the coat type.
For some dogs a thorough brush a few times a week is enough; others need daily care.
It is especially important to brush not only the surface but down to the roots, carefully parting the coat into small sections.
Sometimes a dog looks lovely: smooth and fluffy on top, but with dense mats already formed close to the skin.
I recommend using tools that suit your dog's coat and checking the result with a comb.
Get your puppy used to brushing from the start
The earlier a dog gets to know grooming, the easier it will be later.
Start with short, calm sessions. Don't try to brush the puppy perfectly straight away.
Praise it, take breaks, reward it with favourite treats.
Brushing should be linked with something pleasant and safe.
Our job is not to make the dog put up with grooming, but to teach it to accept grooming calmly.
Why are mats harmful?
Dense mats can pull on the skin, hurt when the dog moves and restrict movement.
Moisture and dirt get trapped under the matted coat, and skin irritation and inflammation can develop.
Mats in the armpits, groin and behind the ears are especially painful.
That is why removing mats is not just about a nice haircut; above all it is about the animal's comfort and health.
Why shouldn't you cut mats out yourself with scissors?
Under a dense mat the skin can be stretched tight and almost invisible.
One careless movement of the scissors can cause a serious cut.
If a mat is dense, close to the skin or hurts the dog, it is safer to go to a professional groomer.
Save the coat or clip the mats off?
In my work I always try to keep the length, texture and natural look that are typical of the breed.
If the mats can be gently worked out without causing the dog pain or real discomfort, I always try to do that, using professional products, special tools and gentle techniques.
But sometimes the coat is so badly matted that untangling it becomes a long and painful procedure.
In those cases the kinder choice may be to carefully clip off the felted coat, followed by proper care as it grows back.
The coat type is always taken into account. For dogs with a double coat, a short clip is not the usual answer to mats, because it can disturb how the coat grows back. In difficult cases the approach is chosen individually.
My main principle: a beautiful coat matters, but the dog's health, comfort and wellbeing always come first.
Why does mat removal cost from 40 €?
Every dog, and every coat, is different.
Sometimes the extra work takes only 30 minutes. In other cases untangling can take an hour and a half, special products, patience and great care.
That is why at Pet Beauty extra mat removal starts from 40 €.
The final price depends on the condition of the coat and the difficulty and length of the work, and is agreed with the owner in advance.
My aim is not to untangle every mat at any cost, but to choose the safest and most comfortable way for the dog.
Grooming starts at home
Even the most beautiful professional groom won't keep its shape for long without the right care at home.
Regular brushing, correct bathing and thorough drying help prevent mats and make later visits to the groomer much more pleasant for the dog.
A well-kept coat is not just about looks. It is your pet's comfort and quality of life.
With care for your pets,
Viktoriia Kutsenko
Pet Beauty, Vaasa, Finland