What should I check if my dog’s matted fur has skin sores underneath? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog has skin sores under matted fur, check the skin carefully for redness, broken skin, swelling, discharge and signs that it hurts to touch. Mats can trap moisture, dirt and friction against the skin, but sore skin can also be linked to irritation, scratching or an underlying skin problem, so it’s worth taking a close look rather than just trying to pull the coat apart.
Things To Check
1. See whether the sores are in one matted patch or spread across several areas of the coat.
2. Look for redness, wetness, scabs, discharge, heat or swelling around the sore skin.
3. Check whether your dog flinches, turns away, licks, scratches or seems uncomfortable when the area is touched.
4. Notice if the coat is pulling tightly on the skin, especially around the neck, armpits, ears, groin, tail base or behind the legs.
5. Check whether the skin under the mat looks damp, dirty or has a smell, which can suggest trapped moisture or skin irritation.
6. Look for fleas, flea dirt, ticks or signs of scratching elsewhere on the body.
7. Think about whether the mat formed after swimming, rain, mud, rolling, a long gap between grooms or a recent clip or wash.
Common Causes
Matted fur most often causes sore skin by trapping moisture and rubbing the same area over and over. That can lead to surface irritation, sore patches or even raw skin.
In some dogs, the sore area may also be made worse by scratching, licking or biting due to itchiness from fleas, allergies or general skin sensitivity.
Less commonly, a skin infection, hot spot, small wound or another skin condition may be sitting underneath the mat and becoming more obvious once you part the coat.
What To Do
Keep your dog calm and avoid pulling hard at the mat, as that can make the skin more painful. If the fur is only lightly tangled, you may be able to gently separate it with your fingers, but stop if the skin looks raw or your dog is sore.
If the area is dirty or damp, keep it as clean and dry as you reasonably can while arranging proper grooming. It may help to stop your dog licking the area and to check the rest of the coat for other mats.
After you’ve looked, make a note of what the skin looks like, where the sores are and whether your dog seems comfortable. That can help you judge whether the area is improving or getting worse.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the skin is open, bleeding, smelly, very swollen, hot, very painful or leaking discharge, or if your dog won’t let you touch the area. You should also get advice if the sores are spreading, your dog is very itchy, or the matted coat is extensive and you can’t remove it safely at home.
Products That May Help
If your dog is prone to tangles, muddy coats or skin that needs regular gentle cleaning, this collection may help support a sensible grooming routine at home.
Related Questions
How do I safely deal with dog coat mats?
Can mats cause skin infections in dogs?
Why does my dog keep getting matted fur?
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.