Why does groomer shave dog instead of getting mats out? - The Environmental Literacy Council (2025)

The decision to shave a matted dog, rather than painstakingly trying to remove each individual tangle, often leaves pet owners with questions. It’s understandable to wonder why, if your dog’s coat is matted, a groomer doesn’t just brush it out. The simple answer is that severe matting is painful, time-consuming, and can pose serious health risks to your dog. Shaving, while not ideal for all coat types, is frequently the most humane and practical solution in such cases. The goal is always the well-being of the dog, and in cases of heavy matting, a fresh start with a shave is often the best way to achieve this. This article will explore the reasons behind this choice, and answer frequently asked questions about matting, grooming, and your dog’s coat.

The Painful Reality of Matted Fur

Understanding What Mats Are

Mats are not simply tangles. They are dense, compacted clumps of fur that have become so intertwined that they form solid masses, often close to the skin. These mats can range from small, easily managed knots to large, tightly packed “pelts” covering large portions of the body.

The Pain Associated with Mats

Attempting to brush out established mats is not like dealing with a simple tangle. Brushing through a mat pulls live hair from the skin, as healthy hairs are trapped within the compacted mass. This process can cause significant pain and irritation for your dog, often leading to:

• Increased pain and discomfort during brushing.
• Redness and swelling of the skin.
• Potential bruising and abrasion.

Moreover, matted fur cuts off air circulation to the skin, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and potential skin infections. Mats can also restrict movement, especially if they are tight and located in areas like the legs or armpits. Severe matting can even cut off blood circulation to the extremities, leading to serious health problems.

Why Shaving is Often the Best Solution

Speed and Efficiency

Trying to de-mat a severely matted dog coat is not only painful but also incredibly time-consuming. It can take hours, depending on the extent of the matting, and the dog will need to endure this discomfort for the duration. Shaving, on the other hand, is a much faster process. While groomers are careful to avoid cuts and nicks, the goal is to remove the matted fur swiftly and safely, which is in the best interest of the dog.

Minimizing Pain and Stress

Shaving, while sometimes appearing dramatic, is generally far less painful for a severely matted dog than the alternative de-matting. It allows the groomer to remove the problematic hair quickly and efficiently, minimizing the dog’s discomfort and stress. The priority is the humane treatment of the animal.

Preventing Complications

Mats, if left untreated, can worsen and cause serious skin problems. By removing the matted hair, a groomer eliminates the environment that allows parasites, bacteria, and infections to thrive. This can prevent the development of painful conditions like hot spots, fungal infections, and even maggot infestations.

The Professional’s Perspective

Groomers are often trained to identify the point where de-matting becomes detrimental to the dog’s well-being. They are skilled in evaluating the severity of the matting and making an informed decision about the best course of action. Groomers aren’t choosing to shave just because it’s easier; they are choosing the option that prioritizes the dog’s health and comfort.

Starting Fresh

Shaving provides a “clean slate,” allowing the dog’s coat to grow back healthy and mat-free, provided proper home grooming practices are implemented by the owner. After a shave-down, regular brushing and professional grooming appointments can prevent future matting and keep your dog’s coat in optimal condition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about matted dog fur, the reasons for shaving, and care for your dog’s coat:

1. Can I cut out my dog’s mats at home?
   • For a single mat, if you are careful and know the anatomy of your dog’s skin, you can gently cut it 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. However, for multiple mats or large, tight mats, it is much safer and better for your dog to have a groomer remove the mats.
2. Why do groomers charge more for matted dogs?
   • A groomer has to adjust the price to cover the increased time required to groom a matted dog, as well as the costs of having clipper blades and shears sharpened more frequently due to the dense fur. The process is more labor-intensive and puts more strain on their tools.
3. Is matted fur considered neglect?
   • Veterinarians recognize chronically matted hair and strangulating hair mats as a medical finding in animal neglect. It’s considered neglectful to allow a pet’s coat to become so severely matted.
4. How do you get mats out of dog hair without cutting it?
   • For small, mild mats, you can use a metal comb or brush. Start at the ends of the mats and work your way in, holding the mat over a finger while gently combing. A detangler spray or cornstarch can also help. This method is only suitable for very minor matting.
5. What is the best detangler for matted dog hair?
   • There are many detangling products available for pets. Look for brands like Vetnique Labs Petbliss, TropiClean, or Pawfume Premium. These can help with minor tangles but may not be effective for severe matting.
6. Can you pull out matted fur?
   • You should never attempt to forcibly pull out matted fur as this is extremely painful for the dog. This action can also cause damage to the dog’s skin.
7. Do vets shave matted dogs?
   • Yes, vets will often shave matted dogs, especially in severe cases or when there are underlying skin issues.
8. Why can’t you just cut out matted fur?
   • Cutting matted fur is dangerous. There’s a high risk of accidentally cutting the skin, especially if the dog moves. Cutting also does not address the underlying cause of the matting.
9. What dog breeds should not be shaved?
   • Breeds with a double coat, like golden retrievers, German shepherds, and Siberian huskies, should not be shaved, because of the many negative side effects. If a double coated breed has become matted to the point of needing to be shaved, consult with a vet and groomer to decide the best steps forward.
10. What are the consequences of shaving a double-coated dog?
    • Shaving a double-coated dog can lead to issues such as the coat being more likely to matt as it grows, increased vulnerability to sunburn, disruption of the coat’s natural temperature regulation, and changes in coat texture and color.
11. Is matted hair painful for dogs?
    • Yes, even mild matting can cause discomfort and pain. Severe matting can be excruciating, causing skin irritation, restricted movement, and even reduced blood circulation.
12. What should you do if your dog is severely matted?
    • If your dog is severely matted, take it to a professional groomer or a veterinarian immediately. They can safely and humanely remove the mats and provide necessary care.
13. Do groomers dislike matted dogs?
    • Groomers do not dislike matted dogs, but they find the process of removing the mats upsetting because the dog is clearly uncomfortable and in pain. They are professionals who want the best for the dog and will do what is needed to make the dog comfortable and safe.
14. What happens when you shave a matted dog?
    • When a matted dog is shaved, the groomer will carefully work to remove the dense fur. They must be very careful as there are risks of nicks, cuts, or abrasions due to warts, moles, and skin folds trapped within the matted hair.
15. Do dogs feel better after being shaved?
    • Yes, most dogs feel much better after being shaved due to the relief from the pain and discomfort caused by the mats. They often become much more energetic and playful again.

Conclusion

While it can be upsetting to see your dog shaved, understand that this decision is often made out of necessity. The health and comfort of your dog should always come first. Preventative grooming practices, such as regular brushing and professional grooming appointments, are vital to ensure that your dog doesn’t ever have to experience the pain and potential health issues associated with severe matting. By working together with your groomer, you can keep your dog’s coat healthy, happy, and free of mats.