I'm having the same issues with my baby boy Nico. He loves to always lay down
, so as soon as I finish combing him out...his hair ends up getting really matted in his belly area. I'm taking both my pups to the groomer today, and I am sure they will have to shave his belly area. I actually dont mind. It's pretty warm now, so his hair will grow back in time for the winter. He also is a cotton coat. I actually really love it that way. My Lexi is silky, so I really dont have any issues with her, she can just look kinda shaggy/stringy if i dont brush her.
I just think that getting him cut down will be best, this way I can start fresh and make sure I comb him out more often (twice a day probably!)