What should I check if my dog has matted fur under the ears? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog has matted fur under the ears, the first things to check are the skin underneath, any signs of discomfort, and whether the area is staying damp or dirty. In many dogs, this is caused by routine tangling, scratching, or friction, but it can sometimes sit alongside ear irritation or a skin issue.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the mat is soft and recent, or tight and close to the skin.
2. Look closely for redness, swelling, heat, scabs, broken skin or discharge under the mat.
3. See if your dog is scratching, head shaking, rubbing the area, or reacting when you touch it.
4. Check the ears themselves for smell, wax, dampness or visible irritation.
5. Feel whether the fur is clumping because it’s wet, greasy, muddy, or collecting debris after walks or swimming.
6. Look for other mats nearby, especially around the collar line, behind the ears and along the neck.
7. Notice whether the issue has appeared suddenly or has been building up over time.
Common Causes
The most common cause is simple friction and tangling, especially in dogs with longer, finer or curly coats.
Moisture from rain, swimming, drooling or not being fully dried after washing can make the fur under the ears knot more easily.
Scratching, head shaking or rubbing because of ear irritation can also cause the coat there to mat more quickly.
Less commonly, skin irritation, mites, allergies or another coat or skin condition may be contributing to the problem.
What To Do
If the mat is small and your dog is comfortable, try to separate it gently with your fingers or a suitable grooming tool, working slowly so you don’t tug the skin.
Do not pull hard on a tight mat, as the skin under the ears is delicate and can become sore very quickly.
If the coat is damp, dry it thoroughly after walks, baths or wet weather, and check the area as part of your regular grooming routine.
Keeping the fur around and under the ears brushed more often can help reduce future tangles, especially in dogs that are prone to mats.
If you keep seeing mats in the same place, it’s worth checking whether collar fit, scratching, ear wax or a grooming gap is part of the problem.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to your vet if the skin under the mat looks sore, broken or swollen, if there’s a bad smell or discharge from the ear, or if your dog seems painful when the area is touched. It’s also sensible to ask for advice if the mat keeps coming back or you can’t remove it safely.
Products That May Help
If your dog is prone to tangles around the ears, gentle grooming and coat-care items from this collection may help support a more regular at-home routine.
Related Questions
Why does my dog keep getting mats behind the ears?
Can I cut out a mat under my dog’s ear?
How often should I groom a dog that matts easily?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.