How to Remove Mats From Your Dog's Fur
Mats -- or clumps of fur -- occur in your dog's coat when your pet is not regularly groomed. Removing mats can be painful for your dog and challenging for you. Use a comb to carefully detangle mats, then use scissors if combing is not effective.
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Instructions
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Position your dog so that it will not wiggle away while you remove the mat. Enlist another person's help if your pet is skittish about being groomed.
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Locate a mat and apply coat conditioner. Let it soak in, then separate the mat with your fingers.
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Use a de-matting brush or a comb to comb out the mat. Comb slowly and gently to avoid causing pain to your dog.
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If combing is unsuccessful, use scissors to cut into the mat to loosen it up. Cut up and away from the skin, then continue to comb out the mat.
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Completely cut off the mat by first sliding a comb beneath the mat to protect the skin. Cut off the mat in layers above the comb.
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Tips & Warnings
To avoid severe mats, brush your dog on a regular basis.
Never pull on your dogs mats too hard. It pulls the skin underneath which is very sensitive and your dog my become aggressive towards any kind of brushing.
Do NOT bathe your dog if he/she has mats. It will make the mats WORSE and nearly impossible to remove without cutting them out.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
