Tangles and mats that most dogs and their owners desperately don’t want to deal with, especially those breeds with long and curly fur.
These stubborn mats get quickly attached with the fur, resulting in painful pesky knots and even maximizing the chances of causing skin problems.
But, it can be easily handled if the owner gives an extra minute on brushing every day –depending upon the breed types.
Those breeds with long and curly coats need once or twice bruising in a day, whereas small coat breeds need at least thrice a week.
Why is Regular Brushing essential?
Understanding the benefits of brushing is essential. Of course, many owners are aware of it, but they don’t know:
Regular brushing isn’t only for untangling knots, but it’s for removing dirt and debris, reducing shedding, and stimulating the skin’s natural oils, which keep the coat healthy and shiny.
Neglecting brush frequency can lead to painful mats that pull on the skin and even lead to sores or infections.
You can see a huge difference in their overall health and happiness.
So, let’s explore how you can see a difference in your furry friend’s health– one by one.
Start with the Brush, Then Comb
Every grooming starts with brushing, even pet experts say that whenever you take your furry friend in a bath, before it, brushing can be a wise decision.
It’s because brushing helps to remove dead hairs so that they can’t go to block a drainage or water sink.
Likewise, to remove triangles, brushing helps to eliminate loose fur, dirt, and minor tangles that could magnet debris and entanglements in the future.
After brushing, combing is needed, especially for the long and curly fur breeds.
Having different types/sizes of brushes and combs can be beneficial, depending on the pet’s coat type.
Focus on legs
If your pet is active, never skip the area around the paws and between the toes, because these are the high-traffic areas for tangles and mats.
Carefully brush on both the inside and outside of each leg, around the back tendon, and between the toes.
To perform this, you can gently lift the pet’s leg, and start brushing from the top down. And slowly you can adjust the new angles and if they seem uncomfortable, adjust your hold or give them a short break to reduce stress.
If you find any tangles and mats, you can simply use de-matting tools or detangling spray to break the knots, so that it eliminates the chances of pain. Also, while brushing, make sure to do it gently and avoid pulling.
Breaking sections
When you break the section for brushing, it ensures you don’t miss any areas. Starting from one side, then move to the other, gradually working your way from the tail to the head.
This organized approach keeps you from accidentally skipping areas and allows you to give each part the attention it needs.
Remember, whenever you’re dealing with brushing in the ear area, make sure to be as gentle as you can. It’s very sensitive and your pet can quickly react if you make any hard touch.
Brushing done? Now let’s comb each section
Brushing followed by a comb is effective in catching any tangles that might be missed while brushing. It can give your pet a polished, mat-free fur.
If the comb sticks or you encounter resistance, it means there’s still a knot, and you may go over that area with the brush again.
Repeat until you get a smooth and tangle-free coat.
Make it a positive experience
Until and unless you have a positive experience in brushing, your pet never want to do it again. That’s why we always say to have some treats before sitting for brushing.
If you do so, you and your furry friends will love the process.
Other important things on the brushing process:
- An early start is a must. If you start from a young age, your pet will be familiarized with the process which will reduce the hassle.
- Scheduling brushing sessions regularly, once or twice a day.
- Avoid harsh pulling and yanking at matted fur.
- Getting detangling spray will be a wise decision.
- If your pet gets uncomfortable with brushing due to hard knots, make sure to take advice from professionals.
