Yes I agree you need a good (medium tooth) comb to pull or separate those tangles and clumps. I use a spray bottle with some conditioner in it and a comb. I also use a
Matt Removing Comb (without cutting blades) for those really tuff ones.
Spray the tangle/clump, use fingers to loosen up the area (pulling apart) and than the comb to comb out the area making sure that you have a good grip at the base when attempting to comb any stubborn areas so that you dont hurt your pup.
Take a look at my site for grooming tips and the tools that I keep in my grooming kit.
Grooming - Dawn's Yorkies