Dog Matting: Why Groomers Shave Matted Dogs and How to Prevent It

Dog matting occurs when loose hair tangles and forms tight knots close to the skin. Groomers must shave matted dogs because attempting to brush out severe mats causes pain, skin damage, and risks cutting the dog’s skin. The “humanity over vanity” rule means a shaved dog is better than a dog in pain. Prevent matting by brushing your dog every 2-3 days with the right tools, focusing on high-friction areas like behind the ears, armpits, and under the tail.

If you’ve ever picked up your dog from the groomer and been shocked to see them completely shaved, you’re not alone. Many pet owners are surprised—and sometimes upset—when their long-haired dog comes back looking like a short-haired breed.

But here’s the truth: when a dog is severely matted, shaving is the only safe option. Attempting to brush out tight mats causes excruciating pain and can lead to serious skin damage. In this guide, we explain why groomers shave matted dogs, how to prevent matting, and what you can do if your dog is already matted.

What Is Matting?

Matting occurs when loose, dead hair tangles with live hair and forms tight knots close to the skin. These knots become progressively tighter over time, pulling on the skin and creating painful pressure points.

Common areas for matting:

• Behind the Ears: High friction from collars and movement
• Armpits: Constant rubbing from leg movement
• Under the Tail: Friction from sitting and movement
• Belly: Rubbing against the ground when lying down
• Legs: Especially the “feathers” on long-haired breeds
• Chest: Where the collar or harness sits

According to the RSPCA Australia, matting is not just a cosmetic issue—it’s a serious welfare concern that can cause pain, skin infections, and restricted movement.

Why Groomers Must Shave Matted Dogs

The grooming industry follows a principle called “humanity over vanity”—meaning a dog’s comfort and safety always come before their appearance. Here’s why shaving is necessary:

The shaving process:

• Groomers use a #10 or #7 blade (very short) to get under the mat
• The mat is shaved off in one piece, minimising pulling
• The process takes 30-60 minutes (vs 4-6 hours of painful brushing)
• Your dog may have minor nicks or irritation, but this is far less painful than brushing

If a groomer tells you they must shave your dog, trust their professional judgment—they’re prioritising your dog’s welfare over aesthetics.

The Health Risks of Severe Matting

Severe matting doesn’t just look bad—it causes serious health problems:

• Skin Infections: Trapped moisture and bacteria lead to bacterial and fungal infections
• Hot Spots: Irritated skin from matting can develop into painful hot spots
• Restricted Movement: Tight mats on legs or joints limit mobility
• Parasites: Fleas and ticks can hide under mats, making treatment difficult
• Pain: Constant pulling on the skin causes chronic discomfort
• Circulation Issues: Extremely tight mats can restrict blood flow

According to the Australian Veterinary Association, severe matting is considered a form of neglect and can lead to serious medical complications requiring veterinary treatment.

How to Prevent Matting

Prevention is always better than cure. Here’s how to keep your dog’s coat mat-free:

Brushing Frequency by Coat Type

Proper Brushing Technique

Step 1: Start with a Slicker Brush

• Brush in the direction of hair growth
• Work in small sections, starting at the skin and brushing outward
• Pay special attention to high-friction areas (behind ears, armpits, under tail)

Step 2: Use a Comb to Check

• After brushing, run a comb through the coat
• If the comb gets stuck, there’s still a mat—go back with the brush
• The comb should glide smoothly through the entire coat

Step 3: Use Detangling Spray (If Needed)

• Spray a pet-safe detangling spray on stubborn areas
• Work the spray into the coat with your fingers
• Brush gently to remove tangles

High-Risk Areas to Focus On

Spend extra time brushing these areas:

• Behind the Ears: Brush daily, as this area mats quickly
• Armpits: Lift the leg and brush thoroughly
• Under the Tail: Check and brush after each bathroom break
• Belly: Brush when your dog is lying on their back
• Leg Feathers: Long hair on legs tangles easily

What to Do If Your Dog Is Already Matted

If you discover mats in your dog’s coat:

• Don’t Try to Brush Them Out: This causes pain and can damage the skin
• Book a Grooming Appointment: Professional groomers have the tools and expertise to safely remove mats
• Be Prepared for Shaving: If mats are severe, your groomer will need to shave them
• Expect Extra Costs: Dematting fees range from $15-$30 per 15 minutes of work
• Be Patient: Hair will grow back—usually within 2-3 months for most breeds

If your dog is severely matted and you can’t afford professional grooming, contact your local RSPCA or animal welfare organisation—they may offer low-cost grooming services or financial assistance.

The Cost of Matting

Preventing matting is much cheaper than treating it:

Regular brushing at home costs nothing and prevents these expensive problems.

Tools You Need for Mat Prevention

Invest in quality grooming tools:

• Slicker Brush: Essential for removing tangles and preventing mats ($15-$30)
• Metal Comb: Use to check for remaining tangles ($10-$20)
• Undercoat Rake: For double-coated breeds ($15-$25)
• Detangling Spray: Helps with stubborn tangles ($10-$20)
• Pin Brush: For long, silky coats ($15-$30)

Total investment: $50-$100 for tools that will last years and save you hundreds in dematting fees.

To find a dog groomer near you who can help you establish a brushing routine or safely remove existing mats, browse our verified directory.