[troubletb]

Bell has a true cotton coat and mostly I keep it short. I do every once in a while let it grow and I always use pantene on her hair. I comb, not brush and I usually do this dry. If I don't comb her out right after a bath I might as well shave her right then and there as I will never get the matts out. Your boy does not look like his coat is that bad, try using a long tooth comb.
Good Luck!