Why does my dog's hair get tangled?
Some dogs such as poodles, bichon frize, cocker spaniels and all long-haired dogs have coats that tend to tangle more easily.
In these dogs, the hair tangles preferentially in areas of friction, such as under the collar, behind the ears, under the armpits or on the lower part of the paws.
Lack of regular grooming is also the cause of knots and the formation of tangles. These clumps of hair, in addition to harming your dog's appearance, can hide skin wounds and suffocate the skin underneath, promoting macerations and infections of all kinds.It is therefore important to prevent their formation and remove them quickly once they have formed.
How to remove knots in your dog's coat?
The best way to avoid the formation of knots and clumps of hair in your pet's coat is to brush it regularly.
As static electricity and dryness can promote the formation of knots, it is advisable to spray your pet's hair before brushing it. Then simply use a spray bottle filled with water or a detangling spray for dogs to moisten the coat in a light mist. The alternative is to sprinkle a little cornstarch on the tangled hairs to help untie the most tangled knots.
The brushing technique and the choice of brush are also important. For effective detangling, it is better to use a metal brush of the “slicker” or card type, the length and hardness of the metal bristles of which you will adapt to the type of hair of your animal.Proceed section by section, brushing from the end of the hair, gradually working your way up to the skin. Remember to maintain the hair at the base of the dog's skin so that the animal does not suffer too much during disentangling. Otherwise, your dog could be much less patient and less inclined to let himself be brushed the next time you untangle.
If you come across a particularly stubborn knot, try using a comb or curry comb. And, if these tools still do not allow you to undo the knots, locally cut the tangled hair with clippers or scissors, being careful not to cut your dog's skin which can easily be confused with the tangled hair. This solution should obviously only be used as a last resort.
To prevent the appearance of knots also remember to give your dog a bath regularly because a clean coat is less likely to make knots. Then remember to finish your dog's shampoo with a detangling treatment for dogs adapted to your dog's skin.But be careful: never wash your dog before having carefully untangled his coat. Water and drying will tighten them and mowing will then become the only solution to get rid of its knots.
The process of removing knots can be long and laborious. If your dog loses patience, do not prolong the session unnecessarily and take him to a canine grooming professional.