Mats

Matted dog? What a mobile groomer will do

Mats are tangles that tighten close to the skin. Here is what a groomer can do about them, what it may cost, and how to keep them away.

Short answer: Small mats can often be brushed out, for an extra charge. Tight mats close to the skin usually have to be shaved, because brushing them out hurts. Talk with the groomer before the groom, and agree on what happens if they find mats.

Where mats form.

Behind the ears, under the collar, in the armpits, and at the back legs. Doodles, poodles, and long-haired dogs and cats mat the fastest.

Brush out or shave.

A groomer can work small, loose mats out with a brush and comb. That takes time, so many charge for it. Mats that are tight to the skin can hurt to brush, so many groomers shave them short. The coat grows back.

What it may cost.

Many groomers charge extra for mats, either as a fee or by time. One Chicago quote we saw added $30 for each extra 15 minutes. Ask before the groom.

Agree on the plan first.

Tell the groomer about any mats when you book. Ask what they will do if the coat is worse than expected, and how they will reach you. Send a photo of the length you want, and ask if the coat can get there today.

Keep mats away.

Brush all the way to the skin a few times a week, and comb the spots that mat. Book grooms on a regular schedule. Many doodles and poodles need one every 4 to 8 weeks.

Questions people ask.

Why did the groomer shave my dog?

Usually because mats were tight to the skin. Brushing them out can hurt the dog. Ask the groomer to tell you before they shave next time.

Do mobile groomers charge more for matted dogs?

Many do, as a fee or by the extra time. Ask when you book.

How do I stop my doodle from matting?

Brush to the skin a few times a week, comb behind the ears and under the legs, and book a groom every 4 to 8 weeks.

Where these facts come from.

These threads are where owners and groomers talk about it. We summed up what they said; we don’t quote people or vouch for any business named there.