How to avoid matting throughout winter!

  The winter months can be difficult to manage your dogs coat, especially if they are long and thick. It is highly important to make sure your dog is groomed regularly and correctly for this time of year.

An unmaintained coat can very quickly turn to knots that then become mats, especially if your dog enjoys playing in the puddles and rain.

Not only is a matted coat uncomfortabe for your dog but it can cause severe skin problems. Mats can feel like dreadlock and can be tight and close to the skin. This pulls at your dog’s skin and can bruise. If your dog gets wet at anytime, whether it be due to bathing or out in the elements, these mats are too thick and won’t dry. This can lead to dermatitis and other skin conditions.

It is advisable to have your long haired dog clipped before the winter month’s start; therefore they will be able to dry quickly. The most common misguided thought is that dogs need their coat kept long and thick for the winter months, dogs can actually adjust to the temperature much easier than a human , keeping their coat at a shorter length all year round will make it a lot easier for them to regulate their temperature. A dog coat or jacket is also a great way to keep them warm, but do keep in mind that their fur will still mat under a coat, so regular brushing is still required. Your dog is going to feel the cold a lot worse is they are matted and become wet.

If your dog is extremely matted you need to get him to the groomers. They will be able to give him a full shave as easily and pain free as possible. If you find a few small mats this is something you will be able to fix from home, keeping in mind these knots are very tight to the skin and extremely sore. Use a good quality conditioner when bathing to allow the mats to come out easier and not cause pain when brushing.

To keep on top of this regularly brush your dog. For medium to long coats daily brushes are required. This will keep your mate happy, healthy and clean throughout winter.