Matted dog hair: what to do

Small knots can be brushed out with a detangler and a comb. Mats that are tight against the skin hurt to brush, and a short shave-down under them is kinder; the coat grows back in a few weeks. Brushing to the skin a few times a week stops them returning.

Where mats start

Behind the ears
Armpits and under the collar or harness
The trousers and tail
Between the toes

Brush out or shave?

Loose knots: a detangling spray, then work them apart with your fingers and a wide comb, holding the hair at the base so you don't pull the skin.

Tight mats, or a coat matted all over: a groomer clips under the mats with a short blade. It looks drastic, but it's quicker and kinder than hours of pulling, and mats hide skin problems and ticks.

Stop them coming back

Brush down to the skin, not just the top, a few times a week
Dry the coat fully after swimming or a bath
Book a cut every 4 to 8 weeks for coats that keep growing
Use a harness that doesn't rub, or check under it often

Breed guides

Questions

More grooming guides

Do mats hurt my dog?

Tight mats pull on the skin every time the dog moves and can trap moisture, which leads to sore skin. Get them out.

Should I cut mats out with scissors?

Be very careful: it's easy to cut the skin, which sits right under the mat. Clippers are safer. If in doubt, ask a groomer.