Why coats mat
Mats form when loose hair tangles with the growing coat and tightens over time. Friction (collars, harnesses, the armpits), moisture (rain, swimming, damp towelling) and time are the three big causes. Low-shedding breeds are most at risk because shed hair stays in the coat instead of falling out.
Where to check
Mats almost always start in the same places:
- Behind the ears and under the ear flaps
- Under the collar or harness
- Armpits and the insides of the legs
- The belly, tail and hygiene area
- Between the toes
The line-brushing routine
Brushing the top of the coat isn't enough. Hold the coat up with one hand, brush the layer underneath from the skin outwards with a slicker brush, then move up a little and repeat. Finish by running a metal comb through to the skin. If the comb catches, there's a tangle to work out.
Two or three sessions a week is plenty for most dogs. Little and often is kinder than a long session once mats have formed.
Dry thoroughly
Damp coats mat much faster. After a wet walk, towel off and, if you can, dry the legs, belly and ears properly. Rubbing vigorously with a towel can cause tangles, so press and squeeze instead.
When mats have already formed
Light tangles can usually be brushed out at the groom. Heavy matting, though, is painful to de-mat, so the kind option is often to clip short and start again with a fresh coat. Ella will always talk this through with you first, and a regular grooming schedule makes it unlikely to happen again.