Any tips on coat maintenance please?

[therese83]

I have a havanese.  1yr 6 monts old.

I have had him 'close cut' three times because his coat got matted.
I searched the internet for information on taking care of the coat.  I guess groomers keep their sectrets :-)
I am trying to let it grow a bit longer which is the character of this breed.
It mats soooooooo easily.

I am learning by my mistakes?  I just got a brush that actually works, I have tried many.
Also I got a little 'cutter' comb to get the mats early.

I never knew that you brush first then bath.  I did it the other way round + caused mats.
If he gets wet he gets matted, even a drop of rain.
I know to brush him every day, how often should I bath, he gets so muddy in a minute?  The coat is like a sponge that soaks up mud.
Any tips - internet links greatly appreciated.

[therese83]

Thank you for your tips, fantastic!

[AHP84]

Here is the link to a health page I wrote a while back about dog grooming:

http://www.medhelp.org/health_pages/Pets/Dog-Grooming-The-Importance--the-Basics--and-the-Tools-and-Supplies/show/432?cid=3

[AHP84]

Depending on what your dog's skin can handle, bathe him every two to six weeks. You don't want to bathe them every day, or even weekly, because their skin will dry out as well as their coat.
If you want your dog's hair to grow out, it is very important to brush him each day. You can find spray-in conditioners for dogs at a pet store or website that sells grooming supplies. Also buy a conditioner for bathing the dog, as that will help eliminate tangles and mats.
As for the dog getting muddy, that is expected of such breeds with fine, thin hair. They are meant to be indoor dogs for the most part. To help keep the coat clean between baths, you can also get bath wipes; they're like baby wipes. That way, you do not have to bath the dog, and after wiping down the fur you can comb it out to avoid tangling and matting.