How to Remove Mats From Dog Hair

Removing mats from your dog's coat is fairly simple, yet the process may be time consuming if your dog is poorly behaved or its coat is severely matted. Common spots for mats include the chest, hindquarters and legs or behind the ear. They even can form in the hair between the toes. With patience, a gentle hand and the right grooming tools, you can remove mats with minimal damage to your dog's coat.

Things You'll Need

• Mat splitter (an L-shaped metal tool with a single blade)
• Metal grooming comb
• Soft wire slicker brush (curved or flat)
• Electric clippers (optional, but recommended for thick mats that are close to the skin or mats in sensitive places such as behind the ear)

Instructions

1. Have your dog sit or lie in front of you, whichever is most comfortable. Many dogs do not like this process, so if you are having trouble getting your dog to hold still, have someone hold onto your dog's collar. You will need to have both hands free.

2. Separate the mat from the surrounding hairs and insert the mat splitter at the top of the mat. Using a gentle sawing motion, cut the mat vertically through several times.

3. 

   Using the wire slicker brush, gently brush the mat in varying directions to break it apart. You may find that the mat easily falls apart at this point, but if it still seems thick, use the mat splitter on it again.

4. Gently comb out what is left of the mat with the metal comb. Avoid tugging or pulling on the fur. The mat should be split into fairly small knots that slide out easily with the comb. If the comb is snagging and the knots aren't loosening, repeat Steps 1 and 2 before continuing further.

5. Give yourself and your dog a break if the mat removal is taking longer than an hour.

Tips & Warnings

• Brush your dog at least once per week to prevent new mats from forming. If matting is severe, take your dog to a professional grooming salon. Always remove mats before bathing your dog.

• Never cut mats out with scissors. Mats can form extremely close to the skin, and in trying to fit the scissors underneath the mat, you inadvertently may snip or slice your dog's skin. Mat splitters have a razor blade edge and should be used with caution. Always run the mat splitter in a vertical motion from top to bottom, and gently saw the blade back and forth. Always keep the blade pointing away from your dog's skin to prevent injury. Keep mat splitters out of the reach of children.

Resources

• Dog Grooming Tips for All Breeds