The Art and Science of Detangling: Preventing Mats Before They Start

Written by Rosemary Sutton

Sun image by Wix

There’s both an art and a science to maintaining a beautiful, mat-free coat. Any exhibitor who has worked with a long-coated breed knows the truth — a healthy, flowing coat isn’t achieved by chance. It’s the result of understanding the hair’s structure, using the right products, and maintaining a consistent conditioning regimen.

At SummerWinds, we’ve long believed that coat care begins before the brush touches the hair. The secret lies in preventing mats before they ever start — by conditioning, protecting, and maintaining the coat properly from the beginning.

 Step One: The Foundation of Prevention — In the Bath

Mats often begin when the coat loses its natural moisture and elasticity. Friction, dryness, and environmental exposure cause individual hairs to catch and twist together. That’s why prevention starts with bathing — and why the right rinse is so essential.

SummerWinds Fine-L-Shine Cream Rinse & Protect-A-Coat Oil Conditioner replenishes vital moisture, smooths the cuticle, and restores the coat’s natural luster. Its deep-conditioning formula allows the hair to glide easily, reducing static and preventing tangles before they form.

Tip from the experts: After applying Fine-L-Shine, work it gently through the coat with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb before rinsing. This ensures even distribution and allows the hair to absorb the maximum benefit.

Step Two: Shield and Preserve — The Daily Protector

Between grooming sessions, long coats face friction, weather, shedding and everyday wear.

That’s where SummerWinds Protect-A-Coat comes in.

“Diluting some Protect-A-Coat with water and add to a spray container. they light misting before brushing or blow-drying helps preserve the coat’s structure and manageability, making regular maintenance when dropping coat easy and enjoyable.”

This lightweight, oil conditioner can be leave-in conditioner acts like a protective shield for every strand. It locks in moisture, minimizes static, and guards against breakage, the added sun screen helps to prevent sun bleaching.. Used regularly, Protect-A-Coat helps the coat stay soft, pliable, and resilient — maintaining that just-groomed finish day after day.

Step Three: When a Tangle Appears — Detangle with Care

Even with the best prevention, the occasional tangle is inevitable. But panic isn’t necessary when you have the right tools — and patience.

SummerWinds Mats-B-Gone is designed to gently separate tangles and loosen mats without breaking or damaging the coat. Its detangling agents allow you to work through problem areas with ease, saving time and protecting coat integrity.

Professional Tip: Apply Mats-B-Gone to the affected area and allow it a moment to work. Use your fingers to gently separate and pull apart the mat before using a comb. Let the product — not force — do the work.

Step Four: The Detangling Routine

A consistent, thoughtful routine ensures that tangles never have a chance to take hold.

1. Bathe regularly using Fine-L-Shine Cream Rinse & Protect-A-Coat Oil Conditioner for lasting hydration.

2. After drying, mist lightly with Protect-A-Coat to seal and protect.

3. Use Mats-B-Gone as soon as a small tangle appears — never wait for it to grow.

4. Brush gently and consistently, allowing conditioning to do the heavy lifting.

A little prevention saves hours of work — and helps maintain the coat’s natural texture, sheen, and movement.

The Beauty of a Healthy Coat

A beautifully maintained coat is more than a reflection of grooming skill — it’s a reflection of care, understanding, and respect for the breed itself. When coat care is done properly, it enhances the dog’s comfort, confidence, and presence in the ring.

For over four decades, SummerWinds has believed that the best coats come from science, experience, and a love of the craft. With the right approach and the right products, detangling becomes effortless — a natural extension of the art and science of grooming.

Because every strand deserves to shine.