Matted hair in dogs can be a significant issue for dog owners. Without frequent brushing, knotted and tangled hair become common in dogs. This problem is common in different dog breeds with double, fine, or curly coats.
Removing tangles and mats can be problematic because numerous dogs don’t want to stand at a place. Sensitive dogs may not cooperate with you for grooming. For this reason, try to prevent matted hair with regular brushing. Here are some tips that will help you to deal with the matted hair of your dog.
- Regularly Brush Coat of Your Dog
Regular brushing and combing will help you to prevent matting in the coat of your dog. Brush your pet based on the type of coat. It is especially necessary for a shedding season. Breeds with curly coats, fine fur, or long coat must be brushed frequently.
Feel free to use a conditioning spray to untangle the long coat of your dog. Spray this conditioning spray on a damp coat after a bath and brush the coat to remove tangles.
Small Knots Removal
It can be difficult to remove small knots; therefore, you can tease them apart by pulling them gently. If teasing apart is a complicated process for the tiny knots, feel free to cut them out. Carefully slide your comb between the skin and the base of the knot. It will help you to avoid skin tenting.
You must not press hard and pay attention to the signs of discomfort. Stop this process if your dog is yelping, turning for a nip, or flinching. If you find it difficult to comb between the knot and the skin, contact a groomer or veterinarian to shave off these knots. Feel free to check this handy best dog clippers for matted hair article.
Trim Fur Hair
A trimmed and short coat can be an excellent option to prevent matting. It is necessary to make brushing easy. To trim hairs, you will need the best clippers. A short haircut is suitable for double-coated and single-layer coat breeds.
Before shaving Rottweilers, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Siberian Huskies, and other breed mixes, you should consult your veterinarian. Several dog owners think that they can protect their dog from the heat by clipping their outer fur. In numerous cases, it can be dangerous for your dog.
The outer coat is necessary for sun protection and temperature regulation. If shaving is not a good option for your dog, try proper brushing to remove loose undercoat fur. In this way, you can keep your pet cool. Choose a slicker brush or comb because other brushes can be painful for your pet. Before brushing out matted hair, spray some detangling conditioner on the hair of your dog.
- Remove Harness of Dog if Not Necessary
Mats may form under the collar of your dog or in their armpits or chest. It is necessary to remove harness if your dog is not on a leash. Consider the use of leather rolled collar over a flat collar. It is an excellent way to avoid tangles around the neck.
Bathe Your Pet Regularly
Bathe your dog frequently or according to the recommendations of a groomer. If your pet has tangles or mats, avoid bathing because it can make the situation worse. Remember, a conditioner or shampoo can’t remove matting. Consult your breeder or groomer to recommend a shampoo.
- Healthy Diet for Dog
Fur and skin of your dog can help you to evaluate the overall health of your dog. Your dog needs a nutritious diet to encourage healthy skin and hair. Before buying dog food, read its label. Make sure to follow the recommendations of AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials).
Dog foods with the AAFCO recommendations contain the perfect balance and amount of essential food groups. They contain minerals and vitamins vital for good skin and hair health. Remember, dead skin cells may increase build up and produce crusty lesions. In this situation, it can be difficult for you to brush the fur of your dog.
Fish Oil (Omega-3 Fatty Acids) Supplements
Your pet needs a regular dose of Omega-3 fatty acids. For this reason, fish oil supplements can be the best choice. Moreover, use olive oil or flax seeds as a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids for your dog. Remember, a daily dose of Omega-3 fatty acids can save your dog from flaky, dull, and seborrhea (eczema) skin.
To determine the best dose of Omega-3 fatty acids, you must consult your breeder or veterinarian. With the use of Omega-3 fatty acids, you can save your dog from allergies and several autoimmune diseases.
- Pick the Best Tools for Your Dog
If you want to buy the right tools for your pet, consult the groomer or breeder of your dog. Here are some crucial tools for particular dog breeds.
- Slicker Brushes: These brushes are great for Golden Retrievers, St Bernards, Yorkshire Terriers, Cocker spaniels, and several other dogs with long coats. The dog must not have a thick woolly undercoat.
- Bristle Brushes: With these traditional brushes, you can groom your pets with short coats. Breeds like Boston terriers, Staffies, Greyhounds, or Jack Russels shed heavily. Feel free to use this brush for them.
- Pin Brushes: Feel free to use this traditional brush designed with supple metal wires. These brushes are suitable for curly or long coats, including Poodles and German Shepherds.
- Combs: You will need them for every dog to comb their coat regularly. With good combs, you can prevent the formation of knots.
- Professional Groomers
Some dog breeds need intensive maintenance routine for their coat to avoid matting. For instance, Bichon Frises, Coton de Tulear, Doodle-mixes, and Poodles need special care. Sometimes, regular brushing at home may not be sufficient.
Along with hair, you have to clean the ear and teeth of your dog. To keep them active and healthy, you should book a grooming appointment with professional groomers. If you don’t want to trim the coat of your dog, schedule a grooming appointment. It will help you to keep the fur of your dog in the best shape.
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