Hand Stripping for Dogs

Hand Stripping for Dogs Can be a Controversial Subject!

That said when done correctly, by fully qualified or experienced groomers, like the ones at My Best Friend Dog Grooming, it is the best way to keep certain dog’s coats in optimal condition. If done correctly it is neither stressful or pain full assuming the dogs’ coat is suitable for hand stripping. That’s why we always conduct a complete coat assessment prior to accepting ay new clients for our hand stripping service.

For the purpose of this article we will focus on the hand stripping of wire-haired breeds such as Border Terriers, Irish Wolf Hounds, Wire-haired Pointers and Wire-haired Dachshunds.

About Wiry Coat Growth

There are 4 stages to wire hair growth,

1. Anagen Phase: This is when hair follicles move into the GROWTH PHASE.
2. Catagen Phase: This is the TRANSITION PHASE when hair stops growing and the outer root sheath attaches to the hair.
3. Telogen Phase: The RESTING PHASE when the hair is at a standstill and does not grow or shed.
4. Exogen Phase: The FALLOUT PHASE where the hair falls out and a new hair grows

Once the hair is in the Telogen Phase then the dog is ready to be hand stripped, this is as the root follicle detaches from the dermal papilla allowing the hair to be pulled without causing harm or distress to the dog.

What Tools Should Be Used for Hand Stripping Dogs

Most of the work with wire haired breed hand stripping is done with your fingers however in addition to the usual equipment  the following tools are also required:

1. Chalk Powder
2. Stripping Stone
3. Rubber Finger Grips 

The are numerous methods for hand stripping your dog which we will cover in future articles however one key tip is to only pluck a few hairs at a time. This avoids causing the dog discomfort an allows the groomer to get the desired shape and finish. Once its gone it’s gone!

Please note that we do not provide our hand stripping service to spayed or neutered dogs as removal of sex organs changes to hormone balance which affects the hair growth cycle and the skins ability to give up hair.

For more information or to make a booking please click on the link below…