The Effects of Hair Mats on Dogs

Considerations of how much care a dog's coat will require can help you determine which dog to adopt or which dog not to adopt. All dogs are prone to mats, but breeds with medium-length and long hair are certain to form them at some point. Mats affect a dog's health and appearance in a number of different ways, but good coat care can prevent them. When mats appear, they should be removed or brushed free.

  1. Reduction of Coat Performance

    • When a dog's coat becomes matted, it reduces the coat's performance. All dogs depend on their fur to regulate body temperature, so mats in long hair can present a problem. Mats prevent the coat from being able to shed or produce heat, which places the dog at risk for heatstroke and hypothermia. Matted dog hair decreases the overall performance of the coat and exposes the skin to the sun and wind as well.

    Increase in Disease and Illness

    • Mats collect soil and dirt, becoming a breeding ground for bacteria that results in skin disease and illness. Mats larger than the size of the thumb should be snipped out rather than combed out. Mats of this size also collect fecal matter that cause bacterial infections around the anal area or impactions if it prevents the dog from eliminating waste. Mats present throughout the coat increase the chance of skin irritations and infections as well.

    Reduction of Mobility

    • A clean, mat-free coat allows the dog to move freely; however, mats and tangles reduce a dog's mobility. Mats are formed when the dog's coat becomes tied in knots. When the dog moves, it tugs on the skin making movement uncomfortable. Because mats are formed from both live and dead hair, never pull them out with your hand. Blunt-tipped hair scissors are the least painful solution to mats that cannot be gently combed out within a few strokes of the combing rake.

    Diminishing of Overall Appearance

    • One of the best features of a dog is its coat. It glistens when clean, but looks less than appealing when dirty. A soiled, matted coat reduces a dog's overall appearance and signals an unhealthy dog. Before selecting a dog, know how much time you have to commit to coat care each week and select a breed that meets your time schedule.