Long-haired dogs look beautiful, but their coats can tangle and mat quickly. Mats are uncomfortable for your dog and can lead to skin issues if left untended. Regular bathing at home, done correctly, is a key step in preventing mats between grooming appointments. It helps keep the coat clean, hydrated, and smooth.
Preparation is Key
Before you even think about water, thoroughly brush your dog’s coat. Use a Small Size Metallic Brush with Extra Long Tines for smaller dogs or dense areas. For larger dogs and broad sections of coat, a Big Size Metallic Brush works well. These slicker-style brushes are designed to reach through the coat. Look for any existing tangles and gently work them out with a Professional Combs. Never try to wash a matted coat; water will tighten the mats and make them worse. If you find significant mats, it is best to address them dry or consult a professional groomer first.
The Right Shampoo for a Clean Start
Start any new routine, or the first bath with Starfire’s Canine Care, by using a purifying shampoo. Stripper is a chelating shampoo that opens the cuticle and lifts every kind of residue and product build-up. Use two lathers in warm water and rinse thoroughly. This deep clean prepares the coat to absorb moisture and nutrients.
For maintenance baths, you have choices depending on your dog’s coat needs. If you want to add body and texture without drying the skin or coat, Gluttony is a structuring volume shampoo for double coats and areas that need maximum density. If your dog needs moisture and mirror shine with balanced volume, Deluge is an all-rounder shampoo that is safe for all breeds and ages, including puppies. You can compare these options on our shampoos page to find the best fit for your dog.
Conditioning for Smoothness
After shampooing, a good mask or conditioner is essential to hydrate the coat and help prevent future tangles. Blot the coat with a Big Size Microfiber Towel until it is damp, but not dripping. This helps the mask penetrate the coat.
Apply your chosen mask in three zones: chest, front legs, neck, and head; back and underside; hips, skirts, tail, and rear legs. Massage the product into the ends of the coat. For maximum nutrition without changing the coat’s natural volume, and to seal dry or damaged ends, use Fortaleza Treatment. Leave it on for 45 to 60 minutes. If your goal is expansive volume with collagen concentrate, Gossip is a good choice. Never wrap your dog in an absorbent towel while the mask is working. Instead, wrap them in a plastic cape or bag, then a towel and a warm blanket, for 20 to 30 minutes. Let your dog cool for five minutes before rinsing.
Always rinse with plenty of cold water to seal the cuticle and lock in moisture. This step is important for shine and coat health.
Rinsing and Drying to Prevent Tangles
After the cold rinse, blot the coat again with your microfiber towel. This removes excess water and speeds up drying. If your dog has a straight coat, you can spray Fortaleza Spray before drying. This light leave-in spray offers daily conditioning and hydration. For curly coats, avoid force dryers. Instead, use a diffuser on low heat or air-dry to preserve the curl pattern. Regularly brush your dog while drying to ensure the coat dries straight and tangle-free.
Between Baths
Consistent daily brushing is the best way to prevent matting between baths. Use your metallic brush and comb to work through the coat. A light spray of Fortaleza Spray during daily brushing can help keep the coat hydrated and make brushing easier.
What you need
- Small Size Metallic Brush with Extra Long Tines: for pre-bath brushing on small dogs or dense areas.
- Big Size Metallic Brush: for pre-bath brushing on larger dogs and broad areas.
- Professional Combs: for detangling and final knot checks.
- Stripper: to deep-clean the coat at the start of a new routine.
- Gluttony: for maintenance baths when volume and texture are desired.
- Deluge: for maintenance baths when moisture, shine, and balanced volume are desired.
- Big Size Microfiber Towel: for blotting excess water before and after masks.
- Fortaleza Treatment: for maximum hydration and to seal dry or damaged ends.
- Gossip: for expansive volume and collagen concentrate during maintenance baths.
- Fortaleza Spray: for light leave-in hydration after bathing and for daily conditioning between baths.
For a routine built specifically for your pet’s needs, visit our Grooming Advisor.