4 Steps To Untangling Matted Dog Hair

If you own a furry friend, you know all too well the struggle that comes with grooming. Trying to keep up with brushing and combing can be a challenge, especially when your pup’s fur gets matted or tangled. While a professional groomer is often the best way to go, there are a few techniques you can try yourself to get rid of those pesky knots.

In this article, we’ll provide you with an easy-to-follow guide on untangling matted dog hair. We’ll go over the best products to use, items to avoid, and four simple steps for releasing those stubborn tangles. Whether your pup is long-haired or short-haired, these tips will help you keep your pup’s coat in tip-top shape.

Assessing the Situation 

Before you do anything else, it’s important to assess the severity of the matted hair. If you can easily separate the tangles with your fingers, then you may not need to use scissors and can move on to the next step. If it’s more severe and won’t easily come apart with just your hands, however, it’s probably best to break out some scissors and carefully cut away the matted areas. 

Preparing the Area 

Make sure to brush through your pup’s hair gently before beginning the de-matting process. This way, any shorter tangles will be taken care of and won’t contribute to any knots or mats that are already present. You can also use a wet dog brush to comb through the tangles, as this will add lubrication and make it easier to remove any knots or mats. Moving a bit more slowly around any matting that’s near the skin is key to preventing any irritation for your pup. 

Gently Removing the Matted Hair 

Always start from the end and work your way up; you don’t want to pull on the skin in an effort to get rid of those knots! To start, try using an old toothbrush or even a small dog brush and gently massage small circles on either side of the knot or mat while trying not to disturb it too much. This should help in loosening it up a bit so that you do not have to tug too hard when combing out larger mats. When necessary, pair this method with a detangler or conditioner for extra lubrication so that sliding out knots is easier for both you and your pup. 

Aftercare

To keep your pet’s coat looking healthy and knot-free for longer, make sure they’re getting regular brushing sessions at least twice per week with a comb or specialized dog brush whose bristles are designed for tangles. Doing so should help reduce how often tangles occur, but if one does happen despite this careful routine, simply follow these steps again and they should be sorted out in no time!

Conclusion

Untangling matted dog hair can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few simple steps, you can quickly and safely de-tangle those pesky knots and get your pup looking and feeling great. Start by assessing the situation and then use the right tools and products to slowly work through the tangles from the ends up. Regular brushing sessions and using a detangler or conditioner can also help prevent matting in the future. With just a few simple steps, your pup will be looking, feeling, and smelling fresh and fabulous in no time!