If your dog has long fur or a thick coat, you have probably experienced how easily it can get tangled and knotted. If left untreated, these knots can become thick, tightly woven mats of fur that are hard to untangle. Matting is difficult to brush out, especially while being gentle with your dog. Being proactive with grooming can help you keep your dog’s coat knot-free and under control.
Choose the Right Brush
Select the right type of brush for your dog’s fur. There are many options to choose from with varying bristle types, density, and length, as well as different shaped brushes. There are also de-matting tools designed to try to break down mats and get rid of loose hair. Talk to your groomer about what style of brush is a good fit for your dog’s breed and fur type.
Go Slowly
Don’t try to run the brush over your dog’s entire body in one swipe. Work on small sections at a time, and make sure you’re getting down to their undercoat, not just brushing the surface. You want to gently remove any loose fur and dead skin cells that can lead to matting. Try carefully using your hand to rub your dog’s fur in an upward position, then using the brush to comb it flat.
Some dogs benefit from being brushed daily or a few times a week, while others can go for a few weeks between brushing without any problems. If your dog is active and moves around a lot, you may want to target areas such as their armpits and groins, under their collar, and around their haunches to stay on top of common problem areas.
Use De-Matting Spray
If your dog does develop a tough tangle, spritz it with de-matting spray, or sprinkle a little cornstarch on it to try to loosen up the knots. Carefully work your brush or a wire comb through a little bit at a time. Be gentle so you don’t pull at your dog’s skin or accidentally scratch them. You may need to trim their fur to get rid of matting that can’t be brushed out. This is something you may want to leave to the groomer, as they know how to carefully maneuver tangles and snip them out without nicking your dog’s skin.
Stay on Top of Tangles
After your dog has been playing outside, rolling around, or roughing up their fur, make it a habit of brushing out any small knots before they develop into something bigger and become more matted and tangled. You can give your dog something to chew on like a toy or treat puzzle to keep them busy while you brush their fur. Some dogs happily sit calmly because they enjoy the feeling of being brushed.
Know your dog’s fur and personality. If it is hard for you to keep up with their grooming, schedule regular appointments to have them professionally bathed and trimmed. Getting their undercoat removed or thinned during certain times of the year can help as well to reduce some of the thickness and shedding fur.
Keep your dog tangle-free and looking their best by scheduling an appointment at Lake Wylie Pet Resort. Let your pet get pampered for the day so they’re feeling great. Contact us today to book an appointment, and don’t forget you can schedule them to be groomed while they’re boarded as well.