[CupofDog]

To break up a mat, use a fine tooth comb, and carefully pick apart the mat with the comb, holding your baby's fur away from the skin, so you don't yank directly on the mat.

Once you have 'broken' most of it up, you can start trying to gently comb through and remove the mat. This only works if its a smaller mat. If its bad - cut the mat out.

Don't hurt the pup! The best prevention for mats is brushing. I use a slicker 2X a day and comb once. Because I do it so often, its usually very quick - no longer then 2-3 minutes each session. I use lots of treats and praise.

Also, remember that untended to mats are really uncomfortable for the dogs because the mats themselves can pull skin. A good detangler spritz keeps the hair slick so it doesn't mat as much. My baby is a Yorkie mix (I think with Maltese) so her hair is really cottony and mats easily. A daily spritz with detangler keeps her from getting matted during play or while rolling around.