Taking care of your dog’s coat is like keeping his suit always impeccable: essential for his style and well-being. One of the most common (and annoying) problems is tangles. In the worst cases, these “love knots” can become painful and cause skin issues or even infections. To avoid hair dramas, it is key to know what causes them and how to prevent them.
What Causes Matted Hair on Dogs?
Matted fur in dogs has more causes than excuses for not exercising: poor brushing, clumsy techniques, extreme weather, or simply having a drama-worthy mane. To top it off, fleas and ticks can turn the coat into a mess, courtesy of so much scratching and biting. And watch out, if you don’t put your hands (or brush) to work, those tangles can lead to serious health problems for your furry friend.
Potential Health Risks of Matted Fur on Dogs
Matted fur is not only an aesthetic disaster, but also a magnet for problems: irritations, bacterial or fungal infections, and, in extreme cases, even cut circulation that can end in very ugly situations (yes, really ugly, like amputations). So, before your dog ends up in a drama worthy of a veterinary soap opera, better get rid of those knots in time!
5 Tips To Prevent Matted Fur On Your Dog
1. Regular Brushing

The most important thing you can do is to give the brush a good brushing (at least every two weeks). This will prevent tangles from going from “little knots” to “Persian carpets”. Of course, use a brush designed for your furry’s mane, because not all hairstyles are styled in the same way.
2. Bathing

Bathing your puppy regularly is key; after all, dirt isn’t exactly a good stylist and only helps form mats over time. And don’t forget the conditioner, because even the most unruly coat deserves a gentle touch to keep specks at bay between brushing.
3. Professional Grooming

Every few months (or more often depending on your pooch’s needs), taking them in for professional grooming sessions is recommended as well so that an experienced groomer can get rid of any stubborn mats before they turn into bigger problems.
4. Avoid Excessive Shedding

Some breeds are prone to excessive shedding which can contribute to matting over time; if this applies to your pup then try using anti-shedding shampoo occasionally during baths or invest in an undercoat rake/brush which will help remove loose hair from underneath their topcoat layer before it becomes tangled up.
5. Check For Parasites

Check your puppy frequently for parasites, such as fleas or ticks, because, come on, those little critters are not only annoying, they also help create speckles! Keeping an eye on matted fur should be as much a part of your routine as your daily walk, especially if you have a diva mane that tangles easily.
If you follow these five simple tips, your dog will have a healthy coat free of painful knots. With a little effort each week (and a professional touch now and then), you’ll keep the mats at bay and your pup happy!