What is hand-stripping?

Handstripping is a traditional grooming technique that involves manually plucking the dead hair from a dog's coat using fingers or specialized tools, rather than cutting it with clippers or scissors. 

This method is typically used on dogs with wiry coats, such as terriers, and is essential for maintaining the coat's texture and quality.

 Unlike clipping, which can leave the coat soft and often changes its natural appearance, handstripping preserves the harsh, bristly texture that is characteristic of certain breeds. By removing the dead hair in this way, the coat grows back healthier and more vibrant, with a more even, natural look.

Handstripping is important because it allows the dog's coat to maintain its intended texture, which is essential for protection against weather and environmental elements. It also helps prevent matting and promotes healthy skin underneath the coat.

 This method stimulates the skin, ensuring proper airflow, which can reduce the risk of skin conditions that might arise from clipped fur. 

Breeds most commonly handstripped include terriers (such as the Jack Russell, Border, and Fox Terrier), Schnauzers, and other wire-haired breeds. It’s a time-consuming and meticulous process that requires both skill and experience, which is why it’s often passed down through generations of grooming professionals.