Hand stripping is a process where the dead outer coat on wired-haired or rough-coated dogs is removed by hand rather than with clippers.
It is not painful for the dog and can result in a beautiful finished coat.
The hairs of these breeds grow at an angle and it is important to hand strip in the direction that you want the hair to ultimate grow again.
On different parts of the dog’s body the hair needs to grow in different directions.
For example on the legs, the hair needs to grow straight out, whereas on the body, it should be flat and straight.
To ensure a healthy coat, older hair should be removed so that new healthy hair can replace it.
Hand stripping is about physically removing hairs by pulling them out of the follicle.
Technique
First, the dog’s coat needs to be brushed in the direction you want the coat to lay – this will also minimise clumps.
If a clump of hair is pulled out, the new hair will grow back in a clump which can make the dog’s coat uneven.
When stripping hair, always support the skin by gently stretching it in the opposite direction from the way you are pulling the hair out.
Grab the hair you want to remove near the end of the hair shaft and pull in the direction you want the new hair to grow.
You can use chalk on your fingers to help you get a better grip.
