Corded Dog Coats: How to Care for Cords and Dreadlocks

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Corded coats are among the most distinctive in the dog world. The Komondor, Puli and Bergamasco Shepherd naturally develop long, heavy cords that look like mops or dreadlocks. They are spectacular, and they require a very different approach to grooming.

How cords form

Cords develop when the soft undercoat and the coarser outer hair twist and mat together in a controlled way. The process begins when a puppy's coat changes to adult hair, usually between about one and two years of age. Without intervention the coat becomes one large mat, so owners separate the forming cords by hand into narrow, even strands. See identifying your dog's coat type.

Separating the cords

Separating, sometimes called ripping, means pulling the coat apart into cords from the skin outward. Do this every few weeks, working in small sections and keeping the base of each cord thin enough to let air reach the skin. Cords that fuse at the base need to be split carefully by hand, never with scissors near the skin.

No brushing

Corded coats are not brushed. Brushing destroys the cords and creates fluff. Instead, pull out loose debris by hand and trim the ends if they grow too long or drag on the ground.

Bathing

Bathing corded dogs is a major task. Dilute shampoo in water, squeeze it through each cord, rinse thoroughly and press out water. Residue left in the cords attracts dirt. Bathe as needed, often every one to three months, with the schedule adjusted for how dirty the dog gets. See how to bathe a dog at home.

Drying

Drying is the critical step. A damp, dense coat can take a day or more to dry on its own and may develop a sour smell, mildew or skin infections. Squeeze out water with towels, then use a high-velocity dryer or fans, lifting cords so air reaches the base. See how to dry a dog after a bath and high-velocity dryers.

Everyday hygiene

• Check cords for burrs, seeds and mud after walks. See removing burrs.
• Keep the face, eyes and rear end trimmed and clean. See sanitary trims.
• Check the skin regularly for irritation, parasites and hot spots, which can hide under cords.
• Keep food and water bowls from soaking beard cords.

Heat and comfort

A long corded coat holds heat, so keep dogs cool in summer with shade, water and air conditioning. Do not shave unless advised by your vet or groomer.

Is a corded coat right for you?

Keep the coat only if you have time for regular separation and long bathing and drying days. Many pet owners choose a clipped coat, which is easier and healthier for many households. A groomer experienced with the breed can help. See how to choose a professional dog groomer.

Matting versus cords

Cords are structured, even and separate. Mats are tight, uneven and often close to the skin. See how to prevent matting if you are unsure which you have.

Common mistakes with corded coats

• Brushing the coat, which creates fluff and ruins cord definition.
• Letting cords fuse at the base so they become one mat.
• Bathing without drying completely.
• Ignoring the skin underneath because the coat looks fine on top.
• Starting separation too late, after the puppy coat has already matted.

Getting help

Cord care is a skill that is easiest to learn in person. Ask the breeder, a breed club or a groomer with corded-coat experience to show you how to separate cords before the adult coat comes in. A few lessons early on prevent a great deal of painful matting later, and they help you decide whether to keep the coat or switch to a clipped style.

The takeaway

A corded coat is a work of regular, careful handling. Separate often, dry fully and keep skin healthy underneath.