01/07/2025
Splitting Hairs on some Frequently Asked Questions:
What is matting?
Matting is when hair becomes knotted or impacted, often forming a compact mass that can lead to skin irritation, infections, and bruising if not addressed.
What are some things that cause matting?
* Coat type
* Friction (wearing collars, harnesses, clothing; petting, rubbing, exercise)
* Moisture (morning dew, rain, snow, swimming, chewing or licking)
* Inadequate coat care (buildup dead fur, dander, urine, and other dirt or debris; harsh solutions like bleach or chlorine; coat breakage resulting from use of wrong tools, products or techniques)
Why can’t I instruct my groomer on the desired coat length?
For most grooming appointments, the length of coat left is determined by its current condition. Matted coats are often damaged and require removal to prevent further matting. Some matting can be worked away from the skin after a bath using a velocity dryer, but dense matting may be too thick for bathing, as shampoo and conditioner may not pe*****te or rinse properly.
Why is my dog matted even though I’m brushing at home?
Brushing can actually damage the coat. Matted hair is typically an indication that the coat length is unsuitable for your dog’s lifestyle, exceeds your capabilities to maintain, or the interval between grooming sessions was too prolonged.
How do I prevent matting at home?
The best way to maintain health and length of a coat is keeping the coat clean and moisture-free between regularly scheduled grooming appointments. Never brush a dry or dirty coat. If you must brush at home, lightly mist the coat with a conditioning spray to hydrate the hair and promote its elasticity. Most professional dog grooming appointments should be scheduled every 4-6 weeks.
