How to Remove Mats From Your Dog's Fur

Mats -- or clumps of fur -- occur in your dog's coat when your pet is not regularly groomed. Removing mats can be painful for your dog and challenging for you. Use a comb to carefully detangle mats, then use scissors if combing is not effective.

Things You'll Need

  • De-matting brush or comb
  • Scissors
  • Coat conditioner
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Instructions

    • 1

      Position your dog so that it will not wiggle away while you remove the mat. Enlist another person's help if your pet is skittish about being groomed.

    • 2

      Locate a mat and apply coat conditioner. Let it soak in, then separate the mat with your fingers.

    • 3

      Use a de-matting brush or a comb to comb out the mat. Comb slowly and gently to avoid causing pain to your dog.

    • 4

      If combing is unsuccessful, use scissors to cut into the mat to loosen it up. Cut up and away from the skin, then continue to comb out the mat.

    • 5

      Completely cut off the mat by first sliding a comb beneath the mat to protect the skin. Cut off the mat in layers above the comb.