If you’ve recently adopted a rescue dog, one of the first challenges you’ll likely face is matting. Whether your dog has curly, wavy, or straight hair, mats can form quickly, especially if your pup’s coat has been neglected or they haven’t had regular grooming.
But don’t worry, with the right tools and patience, you can restore your rescue dog’s coat to its former glory. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you remove matted dog hair and care for your new furry friend.
What Causes Matted Dog Hair in Rescue Dogs?
Rescue dogs often come with a history of neglect or limited grooming, which can result in matted fur. Here are some common causes of matting:
- Lack of Grooming: Rescue dogs may not have had regular baths or brushing before being adopted, leading to tangled hair.
- Scratching and Itching: Scratching from fleas, allergies, or dry skin can lead to mats, particularly around the ears, collar area, and paws.
- Water and Dirt: Some rescue dogs may have been living outdoors or in rough conditions, causing their coats to mat from exposure to rain, mud, or standing water.
- Shedding: Loose fur gets caught in your dog’s coat, forming mats, especially in dogs with longer hair.
How to Remove Matted Dog Hair: Step-by-Step
Are you ready to get started? Here’s how to make your pup’s coat look as good as new!
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need:
- Detangling spray
- Slicker brush
- Dematting tool
- Pin brush
- Scissors (for severe mats)
- Conditioning shampoo (if you plan to wash your dog)
- Treats (reward your dog for good behavior!)
Step 2: Apply Detangling Spray
Start by applying a good-quality detangling spray like We Love Doodles Dog Detangler Spray. If your rescue dog is nervous or hasn’t been used to grooming, the spray will make the process smoother and more comfortable. Spray from 6-8 inches away, evenly covering your dog’s coat.
Step 3: Start with a Slicker Brush
Use a We Love Doodles Slicker Brush to gently work through your dog’s coat. Start with the edges of the mats and work your way inward. For your rescue dog, this may take some time, especially if they’ve never been brushed before. Be gentle, and always use more detangling spray as needed to avoid pulling your dog’s fur.
Step 4: Remove Large Mats
If you come across large mats that can’t be worked through with a slicker brush, you’ll need to use a We Love Doodles Dematting Tool. This tool has 34 stainless steel blades that can safely break down stubborn mats without hurting your dog.
For really tough mats, consider using We Love Doodles Grooming Scissors to carefully trim them away. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to take small sections at a time to avoid cutting your dog’s skin.
If you’re planning to bathe your dog afterward, now’s the time to do it. Use a gentle, conditioning shampoo like We Love Doodles Dog Shampoo, which helps with detangling, conditioning, and keeping your rescue dog’s coat soft.
Step 5: Finish with a Pin Brush
Once the mats are gone, use a We Love Doodles Gold Pin Brush for the final touch. This brush helps remove loose hairs and debris while giving your dog’s coat a polished, smooth finish. Pin brushes also stimulate the skin and help distribute natural oils, promoting a healthy coat.
Step 6: Reward Your Rescue Pup!
Once you’ve removed all the mats and tangles, take a moment to reward your dog. Grooming can be a stressful experience for rescue dogs who might not have been accustomed to it, so a treat and lots of praise will help make the process a positive one.