Knots and matting happen when loose hair tangles and tightens into solid clumps. This can range from mild tangles to full matting that pulls on your dog’s skin and causes real discomfort.

If you can gently pull the coat apart with your fingers and see skin easily, it may be manageable. If not, it’s likely tight matting, and brushing it out would hurt your dog.

When matting covers a large area, it pulls on your dog’s skin every time they move. In serious cases, it can cause bruising, skin infections, and even limit movement. Think of it like getting your own hair caught in a zipper. It doesn't look dramatic, but it hurts to move.

We understand wanting to keep your dog fluffy, but once matting sets in, the only safe and humane option is to shave underneath with a short blade. Trying to leave the coat long will only pull at the skin and cause pain. The good news is, hair grows back quickly. Most dogs are fluffy again within a few weeks.

We strongly recommend you don’t. Scissors are sharp and dogs are wriggly. When matting is tight, skin can get pulled into the knots, and it's very easy to cut your dog accidentally. Our groomers are trained to remove knots safely, but even with care, there are times when minor injuries are unavoidable.

Sometimes we uncover issues that weren’t visible until the mats are removed. These may include:

• Bruising – often around the legs, neck, or where mats have pulled tightly on the skin

• Skin irritation – caused by friction, pressure, or moisture trapped under tight knots

• Grazes or small cuts – especially if mats have pulled the skin into unusual areas or if very short blades are needed for removal

Some dogs feel a bit strange after a big clip. It can be like going from wearing a thick coat to suddenly being in a t-shirt. This feeling usually passes quickly, but there are a few things to watch for:

• Hotspots – raw or inflamed patches can sometimes appear after grooming, especially where skin has been trapped or irritated under the mats

• Aural haematomas – if ear mats were present, blood flow returning to the area may cause swelling or oozing

• Rashes – especially if your dog had been chewing at the mats or is reacting to newly exposed skin
  Freshly clipped nails can be sharp. Try to discourage scratching, especially around sensitive areas

• Head shaking can lead to fluid build-up in the ears

• Dogs may be itchier in spring without their coat to protect them from pollen

• Sunburn is a risk for very short coats. Walk in the early morning or evening and choose shady streets

• If your dog licks or chews at themselves after grooming, contact your vet or consider using a cone

We may ask you to sign a matting release form before your dog’s groom:

I, _______, owner of _______ (name), the _______ (breed), give permission for Doggy Dooz to groom my dog. I understand that due to the condition of the coat (knots or matting), my dog will be shaved as short as necessary to ensure their comfort. I understand there may be an extra charge for the time and care involved in removing the matting. I understand that any injury resulting from the condition of the coat is not the responsibility of Doggy Dooz and I indemnify them from any associated veterinary costs.

Give us a call on (03) 9687 0299. Your dog’s wellbeing is our top priority.