Matting is a common issue among dogs with long, fluffy coats of fur, causing individual strands to tangle and create a tight knot. Since these can catch at the brush and pull at the skin, taking precautions is essential to ensuring your companion’s comfort. Follow the following dog grooming tips to ensure a healthy coat.

3 Dog Grooming Tips for Preventing Mats

1. Regular Brushing

Some coats require daily care, while others only need occasional grooming. While the schedule depends on the thickness of your dog’s coat, regular brushing will maintain a healthy appearance. Check that the brush is the proper size for your dog. Otherwise, you’ll push dead fur further into the undercoat and increase the potential for mats. Undercoat rakes and rotating pin combs are effective tools for this task.

2. Rolled Collar

If your furry friend walks on a harness, remove it as soon as you come home. Leaving the form-fitting material in place will press the fur against the skin and cause mats to develop. To avoid this issue, replace the fitted harness with a rolled leather collar to give the fur time to relax. This type of collar is designed to prevent flattening the fur and create enough movement to keep the strands from tangling.

3. Professional Grooming

If your dog has naturally curly or thick hair, regular visits to the groomer may be necessary. These types of fur are extremely susceptible to mats and can become very difficult to brush, especially when wet. Treat your companion to a dog grooming session every six to eight weeks to keep their fur looking its best. These professionals know the most effective techniques for removing tangles and will perform a slight trim to prevent future issues.

If you want to have your pup’s coat professionally combed, head to Bar-King Dog Kennel in Keaau, HI. This locally owned business has provided Big Island pet owners with excellent grooming services for over 35 years. Their friendly staff offers a selection of bathing, brushing, and trimming treatments and will tailor each service to your companion’s needs. Learn more about their dog grooming offerings online, or call (808) 966-8733 to schedule an appointment.