How to Prevent and Treat Matting : A Comprehensive Guide
6 April
By Kinga’s Dog Grooming | April 06, 2025
When it comes to keeping your dog happy and healthy, grooming plays a starring role. At Kinga’s Dog Grooming in Edinburgh, we’ve seen countless wagging tails transform into even happier pups after a proper Ascot-worthy grooming session. But one challenge that can turn a dog’s coat from fabulous to frustrating is matting. Matted fur isn’t just an aesthetic issue—it can cause discomfort, skin irritation, and even infections if left unchecked. Whether you’re a seasoned pet parent or a first-time dog owner, understanding how to prevent and treat matting is key to keeping your furry friend in top shape.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about matting in dogs: what causes it, how to prevent it, and the best ways to treat it. Plus, we’ll share expert tips from our Edinburgh grooming salon to help your pup stay tangle-free and comfortable all year round.
What Is Matting in Dogs and Why Does It Happen?
Matting occurs when a dog’s fur becomes tangled and knotted, forming tight clumps that can’t be easily brushed out. It’s more than just a bad hair day—matted fur pulls on the skin, traps moisture and debris, and can lead to serious discomfort for your dog.
So, why does matting happen? Several factors contribute:
Coat Type: Dogs with long, curly, or double coats—like Poodles, Labradoodles, or Golden Retrievers—are more prone to matting.
Lack of Grooming: Skipping regular brushing sessions allows loose fur to tangle.
Moisture: Wet fur that isn’t properly dried can clump together.
Friction: Areas like under the collar, behind the ears, or between the legs often mat due to rubbing.
Shedding: Dead hair that isn’t removed can knot with live fur.
At Kinga’s Dog Grooming, we often see matting in dogs who’ve had a romp in Edinburgh’s rainy weather or a dip in the Water of Leith without a thorough dry afterward. Understanding the cause is the first step to prevention—so let’s dive into how to stop matting before it starts.
How to Prevent Matting in Dogs: Proactive Care Tips
Prevention is always better than a cure, especially when it comes to matting. With a little routine care, you can keep your dog’s coat smooth and mat-free. Here’s how:
1. Brush Regularly (and Correctly!)
Brushing is your first line of defense. How often depends on your dog’s coat:
Short-haired breeds: Once or twice a week.
Long-haired or curly breeds: Daily or every other day.
Use the right tools: a slicker brush for long coats, a de-shedding tool for double-coated breeds, or a comb for curly fur. Start at the ends and work your way up to avoid pulling on tangles. Pro tip: At our Edinburgh salon, we recommend brushing in small sections to ensure you reach the undercoat.
2. Bathe with Care
Bathing removes dirt and loose hair, but overdoing it can strip natural oils, making fur more prone to tangles. Use a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner—human products are too harsh. After rinsing, towel-dry thoroughly and use a blow dryer on a low, cool setting if your dog tolerates it. Wet fur left to air-dry is a matting magnet!
3. Trim High-Risk Areas
Even with regular brushing, some spots—like armpits, behind ears, or around the tail—are matting hotspots. A quick trim with grooming scissors or a visit to Kinga’s Dog Grooming can keep these areas manageable. For Edinburgh’s damp climate, shorter cuts in problem zones can make a big difference.
4. Use Detangling Sprays
A leave-in conditioner or detangling spray can work wonders between baths. Look for products with natural ingredients like aloe or coconut oil. Spray lightly, then brush through to loosen minor knots before they worsen.
5. Check Collars and Harnesses
Collars that are too tight or harnesses that rub can mat fur fast. Opt for wide, padded options and remove them when your dog’s indoors. After walks—especially in Edinburgh’s muddy parks—wipe down the fur under gear to prevent buildup.
6. Schedule Professional Grooming
Even the most diligent owners benefit from a pro touch. At Kinga’s Dog Grooming, we tailor each session to your dog’s coat type, catching early mats and keeping shedding under control. For high-maintenance breeds, a visit every 6-8 weeks is ideal.
By building these habits, you’ll minimize matting and keep your dog’s coat as stunning as an Edinburgh sunset.
How to Treat Matting in Dogs: Step-by-Step Solutions
Despite your best efforts, mats can still sneak up. Don’t panic—here’s how to tackle them safely and effectively.
Step 1: Assess the Damage
Not all mats are created equal. Small, loose tangles can often be brushed out, but tight, close-to-skin mats may need more intervention. Check the mat’s size, location, and how your dog reacts when you touch it. Pain or sensitivity? It’s time to proceed with caution.
Step 2: Gather Your Tools
You’ll need:
A slicker brush or wide-tooth comb
Detangling spray or conditioner
Grooming scissors (blunt-tipped for safety)
Treats to keep your pup happy
Step 3: Loosen the Mat
Spray the mat with detangler, letting it sit for a minute to soften the fur. Gently tease the mat apart with your fingers or a comb, starting at the edges and working inward. Patience is key—yanking can hurt your dog and damage the coat.
Step 4: Brush It Out
Once the mat starts to give, brush in small strokes, holding the fur above the mat to avoid pulling the skin. If it’s stubborn, apply more detangler and take breaks if your dog gets restless.
Step 5: Trim If Necessary
For severe mats—think tight clumps near the skin—cutting may be the only option. Slide a comb between the mat and skin as a guard, then snip above it with scissors. Take off just enough to free the fur. Nervous about DIY trimming? Bring your pup to Kinga’s Dog Grooming—we’ll handle it with precision.
Step 6: Post-Treatment Care
After mat removal, brush the area to smooth it out and check for irritation. Clean with a damp cloth if debris was trapped underneath, and monitor for a day or two to ensure the skin heals.
When to Call in the Pros at Kinga’s Dog Grooming
Some mats are too tough for home remedies—think widespread matting, mats near sensitive areas (like eyes or genitals), or a stressed-out dog who won’t sit still. That’s where we shine. At our Edinburgh salon, we use professional-grade tools and techniques to de-mat safely and efficiently. Plus, we’ll give your dog a full groom to prevent future tangles, leaving them looking and feeling their best.
Severe matting might require a shave-down, especially if it’s causing pain or infection. While no one loves a buzz cut, it’s a fresh start for your dog’s coat—and with regular care, it’ll grow back mat-free.
Breed-Specific Matting Challenges
Different breeds face unique matting woes. Here’s a quick rundown:
Poodles and Doodles: Curly coats mat fast without daily brushing.
Golden Retrievers: Double coats trap shed hair—de-shedding is a must.
Shih Tzus and Lhasa Apsos: Long, flowing fur needs frequent trims and brushing.
Collies: Thick undercoats mat in wet weather—dry thoroughly after walks.
No matter the breed, our team at Kinga’s Dog Grooming knows how to tailor care to your dog’s needs.
The Risks of Ignoring Matting
Matting isn’t just cosmetic—it’s a health hazard. Left untreated, mats can:
Cause Pain: Tight clumps pull on skin, making movement uncomfortable.
Trap Moisture: Wet mats breed bacteria or yeast, leading to infections.
Hide Problems: Fleas, ticks, or sores can lurk unseen under mats.
Worsen Over Time: Small tangles grow into felted masses, requiring drastic fixes.
A matted coat also stresses your dog out—imagine wearing a tight, itchy sweater you can’t take off! Regular grooming keeps them comfortable and carefree.
Top Grooming Products for Matting Prevention
Investing in quality tools makes all the difference. Here are our favorites at Kinga’s Dog Grooming:
Slicker Brush: Chris Christensen or Hertzko brands for gentle detangling.
De-shedding Tool: FURminator for double-coated breeds.
Detangler: TropiClean or Burt’s Bees for Dogs—light and effective.
Shampoo/Conditioner: Wahl Oatmeal or Isle of Dogs for soft, manageable fur.
Pop into our Edinburgh shop to grab these or ask for product recs during your next visit!
Why Choose Kinga’s Dog Grooming in Edinburgh?
At Kinga’s, we’re more than a grooming salon—we’re your partner in pet care. Our experienced team knows the ins and outs of matting, from prevention to treatment. We use gentle, stress-free methods, ensuring your dog leaves with a wagging tail and a flawless coat. Serving Edinburgh’s dog lovers, we’re here to make grooming a breeze—rain or shine.
Book an appointment today and let us tackle those tangles for you. Your pup deserves the royal treatment!
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Dog Mat-Free and Happy
Matting might be a common grooming challenge, but it’s one you can conquer with the right know-how. By brushing regularly, bathing smartly, and calling in pros when needed, you’ll keep your dog’s coat as smooth as an Edinburgh meadow. At Kinga’s Dog Grooming, we’re passionate about helping you and your pup thrive—so don’t hesitate to reach out.
Have a matting horror story or a grooming win to share? Drop us a line or tag us on social media—we’d love to hear from you!
