A: Yes, when used regularly, a good quality detangling spray will be effective at eliminating tangles and knots in your dog's fur. It can also make brushing and combing easier, helping to improve overall coat condition.
Enter a detangling spray, which can do wonders, leaving you with all-day knot-free hair. How exactly does it work? Detangling sprays are a type of leave-in conditioner that smoothes and moisturizes the hair shaft, making it less likely to, well, tangle.
No, you shouldn't use a human detangler spray on your dog. Humans and dogs have different PH balances of their skin. Using a human detangling product on your pup can also make a dog's fur dry and can disrupt its acid mantle, leaving it prone to bacteria, parasites and viruses.
DON'T brush damp fur
That's why you should always brush dogs before you bathe them and then just let it all dry naturally afterward. If there's any knotted or matted hair after it's all dry, you can then use a brush to get rid of it all.
You can also use detangling spray or oil (coconut, jojoba, argan, or a similar oil) instead, to help hydrate and loosen your hair. Work the product through your hair, being sure to saturate the matted area with an ample coating. Make sure to dry your hair off a bit so that it's not dripping.
In general, mats are extremely uncomfortable for your pet and should be avoided. Owners should be aware of grooming needs based on hair type and breed of the animal. Pets with medium-to-long hair require frequent brushing, some even once daily.
Even mild matting can be painful, but in severe cases, matting can cut off circulation to your dog's skin and cause hematomas. In some circumstances, matting may be so severe that you would need to take your dog to a veterinarian for treatment.
The wetter your hair, the better your conditioning product can absorb into your hair shaft, making it easier to slip your fingers or comb through any hair knot in its way.
Detangling sprays are designed to make your hair easier to detangle by softening it and smoothing your hair cuticles down - this makes them better able to glide past other hair strands. With a detangling spray, you won't have to yank your comb or brush through your hair to remove the tangles and knots.
I always recommend using the detangling spray every day in all my hair care regimes. Regular use of the detangling spray keep the hairs elasticity and reduces breakage when the hair is combed, brushed or styled. Curly hair loves moisture and requires more hydration that any other hair type.
Skipping regular brushing is the fast path to mats, which means the easiest way to prevent them is to keep up with your dog's regular wellness care and bathing needs. Static electricity and dry skin can cause matting, so add a little mist from a spray bottle when you brush your dog.
When there is a lack of bathing, your dog can also develop matted fur. This is because water and soap can take out any pieces that are stuck and causing tangles and matted fur. Once you go a long time without bathing your dog, the knots can worsen and pile up with objects that continue to cause matted fur.
Brushing Your Dog's Matted Fur
It's important for a groomer to comb all the way down to the skin and through the coat. If the fur is pelted, it has to be removed quickly. Severe pelting cannot be brushed out, however; shaving is the best route.
Generally, long-haired or double-coated breeds like Pomeranians or even huskies are more prone to matting. While short-haired breeds typically need less brushing and grooming, they do still shed and do still mat.
Matting and pelting prevent proper temperature regulation, cause skin irritation, hide parasites like fleas or other nasties, and cause extreme discomfort and pain for the dog.
Detangles and Smooths Hair Cuticles: Your days of struggling with matted hair are over, as ACV acts as a natural detangler thanks to its acidic nature. It works by smoothing and sealing the hair cuticle, the protective layer that locks in vital lipids, proteins, and moisture.
Apply a generous amount of leave-in conditioner, detangling spray, or an oil like coconut oil or olive oil to help the strands slip easily past each other. Use your fingers or a wide tooth comb to saturate the hair mats with the product as much as you can.
Gently brush the matted area with a soft bristle brush in alternating directions. Place your fingers under the base but above the skin to help keep tugging the skin to a minimum when brushing. Sweep the brush sideways to break up the hair fibers.
Using a good conditioner and a detangler spray after bathing can be a big help in preventing matting. Consider a detangler spray or cream before letting your dog go for a swim. Then be sure to brush them out after they are done with their swim.
If it's just one or a few mats, you can cut them out. Unless your dog is going to be in a competition, it is ok to simply cut the mat out. Pull the mat away from the skin, so you can see all the way down to the skin and slowly cut the ball of hair away, using the thick part of the scissors—not the tips.