Matts

Many dogs do not like being brushed, and for this reason their owners often avoid brushing them. Sometimes finding the time in our busy schedules can be difficult. If you have a dog that gets knotted and you do not brush them or give them a haircut on a regular basis, this is what can happen.

When a dog has matts in his fur, they will not come out without brushing or clipping.

• Each time you bathe a dog with knots in his fur, the knots become tighter as they dry.
• Over time, tight knots can pull hair from the skin a few hairs at a time.
• When a dog is matted all over, soap becomes difficult to rinse out and can irritate the skin.
• Scratching irritated areas can cause cuts and scrapes from the dog’s nails.
• Wounds can become infected or attract flies that may lay eggs.
• Severe matting makes it difficult to see the skin and any problems occurring there.
• Matts between toes and pads can cause lameness, similar to having a rock in your shoe.
• Matts under armpits and between back legs can restrict movement.
• Matts around the mouth create a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast.
• Severe matts on the ears add weight and can contribute to chronic ear infections.

A dog haircut. Regular dog grooming—whether at a shop or at home—prevents matts and keeps your dog comfortable. For dogs that dislike brushing, try giving a clipper haircut every 4–6 weeks. If your dog becomes knotted sooner, shorten the time between grooming sessions.