Matted fur occurs when loose hairs become tangled and form tight knots. This can be caused by:

• Lack of Regular Brushing: Neglecting to brush your dog’s coat allows loose hairs to clump together.
• Moisture: Wet fur from bathing, swimming, or rain can lead to matting if not properly dried and brushed.
• Friction: Areas with frequent friction, such as behind the ears, under the collar, and between the legs, are more prone to matting.
• Shedding: During shedding season, loose fur can mix with the coat and cause mats if not brushed out regularly. 
  

Prevention is key to keeping your dog's coat mat-free. Here are some tips: 

• Regular Brushing: Brush your dog’s coat regularly, especially if they have long or curly hair. Use a slicker brush or a comb with wide and fine teeth to remove tangles and loose hair.
• Bathing and Drying: After bathing or swimming, thoroughly dry your dog's coat & brush out any tangles. Use a high-velocity dryer if available, & ensure the coat is completely dry before allowing your dog to lie down or play.
• Frequent Grooming: Regular grooming appointments help maintain your dog’s coat and prevent matting. Professional groomers can trim and de-shed your dog's coat, reducing the risk of mats.
• Detangling Sprays: Use detangling sprays or conditioners designed for dogs to make brushing easier and prevent tangles.
  

If your dog already has mats, it’s important to address them promptly to avoid discomfort and health issues:
• Start Gently: Begin by gently working through the mats with your fingers. Use a detangling spray to loosen the knots.
• Use the Right Tools: Use a mat splitter or dematting comb to carefully break up the mats. If your dog is showing signs that it is too painful to brush, you should shave the fur off instead to relieve them of the pain.
• Be Patient: Dematting & shaving can be time-consuming and may require multiple sessions before it is fully matt-free.
• Be Consistent With Brushing: Getting into a routine of brushing your dogs fur daily (perhaps before bed) or at least every couple days, will really help prevent matting & the pain that occurs with matted hair.
• Seek Professional Help: It’s best to seek professional groomers to get rid of matted fur as they have the tools and expertise to safely remove mats without causing pain or injury to your dog.
• Regular Maintenance: Once the mats are removed, maintain a regular brushing and grooming routine to prevent future matting & schedule in regular grooming appointments to keep the fur at a maintainable length.