I feel your pain. First, place the little angel on your lap and talk very softly saying, ok now we are going to take all of these knots off. I use a detangler I bought at PetSmart. Work on one little section at a time trying to hold the hair at the root and detangle from the ends into the roots. If you hold him on your lap and brush him gently and every once in a while concentrate on the matted area GENTLY he won't realize what you're doing. What I also bought was a moustache comb for around the eyes, nose, lips and chin. I find it isn't at intimidating because it's so small. I hope I helped. My Mimi said to tell your doggy to just stay still and it will get done faster and with less discomfort than if he wiggles and jumps around.