Brush the places that tangle first
Check behind the ears, the feathering on legs and tail, the chest, and friction points under a harness. Work from the end of a tangle toward the skin rather than pulling through it. If a mat is tight or close to the skin, ask a professional groomer for help rather than cutting blindly with scissors.
Build a complete routine
Coat care is only one part of grooming. Check and clean ears as your veterinarian recommends, trim nails often enough that they do not affect movement, brush teeth with dog-safe products, and bathe when needed. Dry the long coat thoroughly and check the skin as you work.
Teach cooperation
Start with one or two gentle brush strokes, reward, and stop before the puppy struggles. Practice standing on a stable nonslip surface. Handle paws and ears outside grooming sessions, and keep the routine short enough that the puppy can succeed.
Coat thickness and lifestyle vary, so a groomer may suggest a schedule specific to your dog. Sudden hair loss, odor, redness, ear pain, or persistent itching belongs in a veterinary conversation.