Detangling long dog hair (knots) without hurting him
Knots (mats) pull the skin and hurt. Don't cut right away!
Recommended Materials
- Metal comb
- Slicker brush
- Cornstarch (Maïzena)
- Round-tipped scissors
Steps to follow
Step 1
The magic trick (Cornstarch): Before touching your scissors, sprinkle cornstarch (Maïzena) or talc generously directly on the knot. Massage with fingers to penetrate the powder to the heart of the mat. The powder absorbs grease and moisture and makes the hair slippery, which greatly facilitates detangling.
Step 2
The gentle detangling technique: Never pull on the knot with the brush, it hurts a lot. Hold the base of the hair lock (between the skin and the knot) firmly with your fingers to block traction. Detangle the knot starting from the tip (the end) with a metal comb, and go up little by little towards the root.
Step 3
Vertical scissors (Surgery): If the knot is too compact (felted), do not cut it horizontally (you risk making a visible hole). Slide an open scissor blade INTO the knot, perpendicular to the skin, and cut the knot in two or three lengthwise. Then, detangle the pieces.
Step 4
Last resort (Clipping): If the knot is glued to the skin, it is dangerous to cut with scissors (risk of cutting the skin which is often sucked into the knot). Slide a fine comb between the skin and the knot to act as a shield, and cut above the comb.
Frequently Asked Questions
Critical zones ?
Knots form mainly behind the ears, under the armpits and at the back of the thighs (friction zones). Check these areas at every petting.
Human detangler ?
Avoid. The pH is not good and the perfume can bother the dog. Use a dog detangling spray or make a homemade one (water + a little dog conditioner).
Precautions
- Go gently, take breaks.
- Watch out for accidental scissor cuts.
