How to Groom a Severely Matted Dog

Dogs left ungroomed for a time can sometimes develop matted fur. These tangles of fur are not only unsightly, but are very difficult and sometimes impossible to brush through with a comb. Before properly grooming a matted dog, you must remove these mats entirely.

Things You'll Need

  • Steel comb
  • Slicker brush
  • Matt splitter
  • Grooming spray
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Instructions

    • 1

      Break up as much of the matted fur as you can with your fingers by carefully pulling the edges apart from each other. Be sure to change position with your fingers frequently in order to loosen the tangle gradually. Be careful not to pull too hard on your dog's hair, use horizontal rather than vertical motions with your fingers.

    • 2

      Use the mat splitter on matted fur that you are unable to break up with your fingers. Gently pull the mat away from the dog's body as best as you can, and slide the splitter underneath it with the sharp edges facing away from the dog's body. Once in position, gently pull the mat splitter directly through the matt with a see-saw motion.

    • 3

      Brush matted areas gently with a slicker brush after you break the mats apart into smaller sections. Hold the dog's fur firmly in one hand underneath the matted area so you can use more force without hurting your dog. Be sure to de-tangle the tips of the dog's fur before working your way down the fur's base. Use grooming or de-tangle spray on areas that are particularly stubborn.

    • 4

      Run the steel comb through the dog's fur to check for hidden tangles and mats.