Understanding Dog Coat Matting: Causes, Prevention, and the De-Matting Process
- thedanekelley
- Jul 1
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 3
If you’re a pet parent, you’ve probably heard the term “matting” when it comes to your dog’s coat. But what exactly does that mean, why does it happen, and why is professional de-matting often necessary (and worth the extra charge)? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about matted dog coats, how to prevent them, and what the de-matting process actually involves.
What Are Mats in a Dog’s Coat?
Mats are tightly tangled clumps of fur that form when loose hair, dirt, moisture, and skin oils bind together. They usually start small, often near high-friction areas like behind the ears, under the collar, armpits, groin, and tail, but they can spread quickly if left unaddressed.
Unlike a simple tangle or knot, a mat is dense and compacted, often down to the skin. This makes it difficult to brush out without special tools, techniques, and a lot of time.
How Do Mats Happen?
Mats occur for several reasons, and often a combination of factors:
1. Infrequent Brushing
Dogs with longer or curly coats (like Poodles, Doodles, Maltipoos, or Shih Tzus) require frequent brushing—sometimes daily. When loose fur isn’t removed, it becomes tangled with new growth, forming mats.
2. Moisture and Dirt
Letting your dog air dry after a bath, swim, or rainy walk without brushing first can create the perfect storm for matting. Dirt, sand, and debris further contribute to tangling.
3. Friction Points
Areas where your dog’s body experiences friction—like under harnesses, collars, or where they lay on certain surfaces—are hotspots for mats.
4. Seasonal Shedding
Double-coated breeds like Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds shed their undercoat seasonally. If the loose undercoat isn’t removed with proper grooming, it can bind with the outer coat and create mats.
Why Are Mats a Problem for Your Dog?
Mats aren’t just a cosmetic issue. They’re a serious health and comfort concern for your pet. Here’s why:
Skin Irritation: Mats pull on the skin, causing irritation and inflammation.
Restricted Movement: Severe mats, especially around joints, can make it painful for your dog to move.
Hidden Infections: Moisture trapped under mats can lead to bacterial infections, hot spots, and even open sores.
Parasites: Mats create a safe hiding place for fleas, ticks, and other parasites.
Pain: Attempting to brush out mats without proper tools and experience can cause your dog significant pain and stress.
This is why most professional groomers, including us at Coat & Collar Grooming, charge an extra fee for de-matting—it takes specialized skills, time, and a lot of patience to do it safely.
The De-Matting Process: Why It’s Time-Consuming and Labor-Intensive
Assessment First
Before we begin de-matting, we assess the severity of the mats. Are they small and manageable? Or are they widespread and close to the skin?
Tools Used
We use a combination of dematting combs, slicker brushes, undercoat rakes, and sometimes detangling sprays or conditioning treatments to gently loosen the mats.
The Slow and Careful Approach
De-matting can’t be rushed. Each mat has to be carefully worked out section by section to minimize pulling on your dog’s skin.
If the matting is extreme, we may need to perform a "humanity over vanity" shave-down. This means clipping the dog’s coat very short to avoid causing pain. While this dramatically alters the dog’s appearance, it’s often the most humane choice.
Breed-Specific Challenges
Certain breeds are more prone to matting, and each presents unique challenges:
Poodles, Doodles (Goldendoodles, Labradoodles), and Bichons: Their curly coats easily trap loose fur. If not brushed regularly, mats develop close to the skin, making de-matting extremely difficult.
Shih Tzus, Maltipoos, and Lhasa Apsos: Their fine, silky hair tangles quickly, especially if owners miss daily brushing.
Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds: Double coats can become impacted with undercoat shedding, especially during seasonal changes.
Cocker Spaniels and Cavaliers: Their feathering and long ears are common mat zones.
The Cost Factor: Why De-Matting Costs More
De-matting can add 30 minutes to over an hour to a grooming appointment. Not only does it require more physical effort, but it also demands more mental focus and care from the groomer to avoid injuring your pet.
Here’s what goes into the extra charge:
✅ Extended grooming time
✅ Specialized tools and detangling products
✅ Extra handling time, breaks for the dog
✅ Increased risk for the groomer (bite risk increases when dogs are in discomfort)
✅ The skill and training required to de-mat safely
How to Prevent Mats Before They Start
Prevention is always better (and cheaper) than correction. Here’s how:
Brush Regularly. Invest in a good slicker brush and comb, and brush your dog at least a few times a week, daily for high-maintenance breeds.
Dry Thoroughly After Baths. Always dry your dog completely and brush them out before and after they get wet.
Schedule Regular Professional Grooming. For many breeds, professional grooming every 4-6 weeks helps prevent mats and keeps their coat manageable.
Use Detangling Sprays at Home. A light leave-in detangler can help reduce friction and prevent tangles between grooms.
Stay on a Grooming Schedule. Membership programs (like our Monthly Grooming Membership) help keep your dog on a consistent grooming schedule—reducing the risk of matting.
Final Thoughts: Choose Comfort Over Looks
We know you love your dog’s fluffy, adorable appearance, but remember: their comfort comes first. If your dog is severely matted, don’t stress about a short shave-down. Their hair will grow back, and with regular maintenance, you can prevent future matting.
At Coat & Collar Grooming, our top priority is your pet’s health, safety, and happiness. If your dog is prone to mats, talk to us about setting up a regular grooming schedule tailored to their coat type and lifestyle.
Need help with a matted coat? Contact us today to book a gentle, professional grooming appointment for your dog in Orange County, CA, including Irvine, Lake Forest, Newport Beach, and surrounding areas.
Book your dog’s next groom today and give them the best care from the comfort of home.
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