Hand Stripping for Terriers

The traditional way to groom harsh-coated terriers is by hand plucking the old coat to obtain new growth. Without hand stripping, the terrier coat becomes softer and the colors dilute. Show grooming is done without any clipping or scissoring of the coat; pet grooming can combine the techniques for an acceptable result. We often clipper the head, for example, as that is the most difficult place for stripping.

Does hand stripping hurt the dog, as you may think? No. These coats have been bred for generations to be hand stripped, and what is pulled out is old hairs that are ready. Most terriers tolerate the procedure well. The technique does require more time and patience on the part of groomer and dog — thus this service is more costly. The average small terrier hand stripping ranges $45–$60 depending on what needs to be done.

Many terrier breeders believe that hand stripping not only maintains a more attractive coat but also contributes to healthier skin: it clears the hair follicles of sebum buildup and reduces the incidence of minor bumps and scaliness often found in clipped terriers.

Terriers we strip

Schnauzers, Wire Haired Terriers, Scotty, West Highland White, Airedales — and not forgetting Bedlingtons, Welsh, Irish and Australian. We hand strip or obtain a handstripped look.