Hand Stripping Dog Grooming: The Complete Guide for Pet Parents

Hand Stripping Dog Grooming: Key Points

• Hand stripping keeps wiry coats healthy and true to texture.
• Clipping softens coats and can harm skin health.
• Many Terriers and wire-coated breeds need hand stripping.
• Pet parents can learn the process with simple tools.
• Paw Parent Academy offers step-by-step training at home.

Introduction

If your dog has a wiry coat, you may have heard the term “hand stripping.” At first, it might sound confusing—or even a little intimidating. But don’t worry! Hand stripping is simply a grooming method that helps your dog’s coat stay healthy, shiny, and true to its natural texture.

Many pet parents aren’t sure if hand stripping is right for their dog, or whether it’s something they can do at home. That’s why this guide covers everything you need to know in clear, simple steps.

Keep reading to learn why hand stripping a dog matters, how it works, and how you can confidently try it yourself!

What Is Hand Stripping in Dog Grooming?

Handstripping is a grooming technique made specifically for wire-haired breeds. Instead of clipping or shaving the coat, you remove dead hairs by hand or with special tools. This keeps the coat strong and coarse, just as nature intended.

Many pet parents ask what handstripping is in dog grooming and how it differs from regular clipping. The key difference is that clipping cuts the hair, while hand stripping pulls out loose hairs from the root. This prevents the coat from becoming soft, dull, or prone to skin issues.

Why Not Just Clip a Wire Coat?

At first glance, clipping seems easier and faster. But for wire-coated dogs, clipping has long-term downsides.

👎 Clipping softens the coat over time.

👎 It can fade the natural color and sheen.

👎 Dead hair remains trapped, which may cause irritation.

👎 The wiry texture that protects your dog outdoors is lost.

Handstripping, on the other hand, keeps the coat:

✔️ Coarse and weather-resistant.

✔️ Vibrant in color.

✔️ Healthy, with fewer risks of skin problems.

This is why hand stripping dog grooming is recommended for wire-coated breeds. It’s the best way to preserve both appearance and health!

How Does Hand Stripping Work?

To understand handstripping, it first helps to know how your dog’s coat grows. Unlike humans, who shed hair evenly, wire-haired dogs grow coats in cycles. Hand stripping works with this natural rhythm by removing old hairs so healthy new ones can grow in.

This section will also cover the tools used in hand stripping dog grooming so you’ll know exactly what you need before starting.

The Hair Growth Cycle and Handstripping

According to the American Kennel Club, dog hair grows in four phases: 

For wire-haired breeds, the most important is the telogen phase. In this stage, the hair has stopped growing but hasn’t fallen out on its own. That’s when hand-stripping comes in.

• By gently removing these “resting” hairs, you make room for new growth.
• In nature, dogs would lose these hairs while brushing through bushes or playing outside.
• Hand stripping mimics this natural shedding process.

If you skip handstripping, the old coat stays stuck. Over time, the coat becomes dull, soft, and less protective.

Tools Used in Hand Stripping

You don’t need a full groomer’s salon to try hand-stripping at home. A few simple tools make the job easier and more comfortable for both you and your dog!

Common tools include:

• Coarse Stripping Knives: Great for removing larger sections of dead hair quickly.

  • Top Pick: Mars Professional Stripping Knife (Coarse) — known for its durable German steel and easy grip.

• Fine Stripping Knives: Used for detail work and finishing touches on delicate areas.

  • Top Pick: Chris Christensen Fine Stripping Knife — ideal for precision work around the head, ears, and legs.

• Finger Cot: A rubber fingertip cover that gives you extra grip when plucking hairs by hand.

  • Top Pick: GroomerdkUSA Reusable Finger Cots — inexpensive and perfect for improving control.

• Stripping Stone: Works like a pumice stone to loosen dead hairs and improve grip.

  • Top Pick: Greyhound Stripping Stone — lightweight and gentle, designed specifically for wire coats.

• Carding Knife: Helps thin the soft undercoat while preserving the wiry topcoat.

  • Top Pick: Mars Coat King Carding Knife — a professional-grade tool made in Germany, excellent for safely removing undercoat without damaging the wiry topcoat.

• Top Coat Brush: Used before and after stripping to smooth the coat and remove loose hairs.

  • Top Pick: Chris Christensen Pin Brush — a favorite among professional groomers for wire-coated breeds.

What Dog Breeds Require Hand Stripping?

Importantly, not every dog needs handstripping. This grooming method is designed for breeds with wiry, coarse coats. This is because these particular coats don’t shed like smooth or fluffy coats do. Instead, old hairs need to be removed so new ones can grow in properly.

Knowing which breeds benefit from hand-stripping dog grooming will help you decide if it’s right for YOUR pup!

Terrier Breeds Commonly Hand-Stripped

Terriers are the most well-known group that needs hand stripping. Their coats are naturally harsh and wiry, giving them that classic rugged look.

Common Terriers that benefit from stripping include:

• Wire Fox Terrier
• Airedale Terrier
• Border Terrier
• Welsh Terrier
• Scottish Terrier
• West Highland White Terrier
• Lakeland Terrier
• Dandie Dinmont Terrier

These breeds keep their sharp outline and vibrant color only when the dead hairs are hand stripped.

Non-Terrier Breeds with Wiry Coats

Handstripping isn’t only for Terriers, though! Many other breeds also have wiry coats that benefit from this process.

Examples include:

• Schnauzers (Miniature, Standard, Giant)
• Wirehaired Dachshunds
• German Wirehaired Pointers
• Wirehaired Vizslas
• Brussels Griffons
• Irish Wolfhounds
• Wirehaired Pointing Griffons

These breeds may not need full stripping all over, but selective stripping on certain areas helps maintain coat texture.

Breed Exceptions You Should Know About

Even within wire-coated groups, there are exceptions. Some dogs simply don’t need hand stripping—or their coat type doesn’t respond well to it.

Breeds that generally do not require hand-stripping include:

• Bull Terriers
• Boston Terriers
• American Hairless Terriers

It’s also worth noting that coat type matters more than breed alone. Some individual dogs may have softer coats that don’t benefit from stripping.

Handstripping a Dog: The Step-By-Step Process

This is where hand-stripping can feel intimidating for first-timers. But don’t worry! When done correctly, it’s 100% safe and comfortable for your dog. Think of it as a deep reset for the coat. Follow these simple steps to get started with hand stripping dog grooming.

Preparing Your Dog and Workspace

Before you begin, set up for success.

• Choose a quiet space with good lighting.
• Have your tools ready: stripping knife, rubber thimbles, pumice stone, brushes.
• Place your dog on a non-slip grooming table or mat.
• Keep treats nearby for positive reinforcement.

Step 1: Carding the Coat

Before you begin hand-stripping, start with “carding”. Carding removes the soft, fluffy undercoat while leaving the wiry topcoat intact. This makes the actual hand stripping process easier and more effective.

• Use a carding knife or a fine stripping knife.
• Hold the knife at a shallow angle and gently drag it through the coat.
• Work in small sections, pulling out only the loose undercoat hairs.
• Always follow the natural direction of hair growth.

Carding is especially important for companion dogs since it helps keep the coat healthy without needing a full strip every time.

Step 2: Rolling the Coat

Next, you’re going to roll the coat. “Rolling” is a method where you remove just a little bit of coat at a time. This keeps the dog looking neat year-round, instead of waiting for a full strip.

• Gently pluck loose hairs across the back and shoulders.
• Always pull in the direction of hair growth.
• Stop if your dog shows signs of stress.

Step 3: Finger Plucking or Using a Stripping Knife

Now you can move into actual handstripping.

• Use your thumb and forefinger (or rubber thimbles) to grip loose hairs.
• Tug gently in the direction of growth.
• For larger areas, use a stripping knife to remove more hair at once.

This step is where you’ll see the biggest difference in a hand-stripping before-and-after session.

Step 4: Using Pumice Stones or Thimbles for Grip

You might sometimes find that some hairs are harder to grab. That’s where pumice stones or thimbles help.

• Rub a pumice stone lightly over the coat to lift dead hairs.
• Use your fingers or knife to finish the removal.
• This also massages the skin and stimulates circulation.

Step 5: Blending and Touch-Ups

Once the main coat is stripped, it’s time for you to tidy up the details.

• Use clippers sparingly around sensitive areas (face, throat, sanitary).
• Blend edges with thinning shears if needed.
• Check symmetry so the coat looks even.

Step 6: Post-Stripping Coat Care

After stripping, the skin may be a little sensitive. For this reason, it’s super important that you finish the session with care.

• Brush the coat with a slicker brush to smooth it out.
• Wipe your dog down with a damp cloth to remove loose hairs.
• Offer praise and a treat for staying calm.

Is Hand Stripping Expensive? Why It Costs More Than Clipping

Many pet parents wonder why hand stripping costs more at a salon than a standard grooming appointment. The answer comes down to time, training, and technique.

Why Groomers Charge More for Hand-Stripping

Handstripping is not your average trim. It takes longer and requires skill that not all groomers are trained in.

• A clipper can shave a dog’s back in minutes, while hand-stripping the same area may take 20–30 minutes.
• Groomers often give breaks during the process so the dog stays comfortable.
• The technique demands a gentle hand to avoid irritation.
• Training in hand stripping is less common, so experienced groomers are in higher demand.
• It’s considered a “premium” grooming service.

For these reasons, professional hand-stripping usually comes with a higher price tag.

DIY vs. Professional Costs for Pet Parents

The good news? With practice and patience, you can learn to hand strip your dog at home!

• Professional Grooming: Expect to pay more than a standard clip; sometimes two to three times the price. Costs vary depending on breed and coat condition.
• DIY Grooming: The main cost is buying the right tools (stripping knives, brushes, thimbles). These are usually a one-time purchase.

In the long run, pet parents who learn hand stripping dog grooming at home can save hundreds of dollars each year while keeping their pup’s coat healthy.

How to Make the Grooming Process Less Stressful for Your Dog

Even though handstripping is safe and not painful, your dog may need time to get used to it. The key is patience, positive reinforcement, and short, calm sessions. These tips will help your dog relax during the process.

Start Young and Keep Sessions Short

The earlier you introduce hand stripping, the easier it becomes for your dog.

• Begin grooming while your pup is young.
• Keep early sessions short; just a few minutes at a time.
• End on a positive note with play or a treat.

This builds a positive connection with grooming time.

Use Positive Reinforcement and Rewards

Make grooming a good experience!

• Offer treats throughout the session.
• Use praise and a calm voice.
• Take breaks for pets, belly rubs, or play.

When your dog knows grooming means rewards, they’ll be much more cooperative.

Know When to Pause or Get Help

Remember that every dog has limits. So, watch for signs of stress like whining, pulling away, or restlessness.

• Stop if your dog is anxious.
• Break the grooming into smaller sessions.
• If needed, ask for professional guidance before continuing.

How to Help Maintain Your Dog’s Coat at Home

Hand-stripping doesn’t end after a single session. To keep your dog’s wiry coat looking its best, you’ll need a simple at-home care routine. With just a little weekly effort, you can stretch the time between full grooming sessions and keep your pup’s coat healthy.

Brushing & Combing Techniques

Regular brushing keeps the coat free of tangles and stimulates the skin.

• Use a pin brush to loosen dead hairs.
• Follow with a medium-toothed comb to check for knots.
• Finish with a slicker brush for a smooth, shiny look.

Rolling the Coat Between Sessions

“Rolling” is a mini version of hand stripping. Instead of removing the entire coat, you take out small amounts of dead hair each week.

• Pinch loose hairs between your fingers or with a stripping knife.
• Gently pull in the direction of growth.
• Spend just a few minutes each week.

This keeps the coat in a constant state of renewal, so your dog always looks neat.

Bathing & Choosing the Right Shampoo

Wiry coats need special care when it comes to bathing. Unlike soft coats, a wire coat is meant to stay coarse and protective. Bathing too often—or using the wrong shampoo—can undo the natural texture that handstripping works so hard to preserve.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Use shampoos made for wire-haired breeds: These formulas clean without softening, so the coat stays crisp and wiry.
• Avoid heavy, moisturizing shampoos: They may be great for silky coats, but they soften wiry hair, taking away its protective texture.
• Don’t over-bathe: Every 4–6 weeks is usually enough to keep your dog fresh without stripping away natural oils.
• Remember natural oils matter: Wire coats rely on skin oils for shine and protection. Too many baths strip these oils, leaving coats dull and skin dry.
• Color and health: Harsh shampoos can cause fading, while wire-coat shampoos help maintain both color and sheen.

Make sure to bookmark + check out our ultimate guide to bathing your dog at home!

Nutrition for Healthy Skin and Coat

Good grooming starts on the inside because a balanced diet supports coat health.

• Choose high-quality dog food with lean protein.
• Look for omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to nourish skin.
• Add supplements only if recommended by your vet.

When your dog eats well, the coat naturally looks glossier and healthier.

Handstripping Dog Grooming: Final Thoughts + Next Steps

Hand-stripping may sound like an advanced grooming technique, but with the right knowledge and tools, it’s something any dedicated pet parent can learn and do right from the comfort of home! This method protects your dog’s wiry coat, keeps their color and texture true to breed standards, and supports overall skin and coat health.

By taking the time to learn this technique, you’ll not only save money on frequent salon visits—you’ll also build a stronger bond with your pup! Grooming becomes less of a chore and more of a shared routine that helps your dog look and feel their best.

Wants Hands-On Guidance?

If you’re ready to put everything you’ve learned into practice, Paw Parent Academy’s online DIY How to Groom a Terrier Course is the perfect next step! This online program is designed for loving paw parents who want to protect their Terrier’s wiry coat and handle grooming confidently at home.

Led by grooming expert, Nadia Bongelli, the course walks you through the full grooming process on real dogs like Roxy the Border Terrier. You’ll learn handstripping techniques, how to bathe and dry without softening the coat, and finishing touches to keep your Terrier looking sharp. Each lesson is delivered in short, easy-to-follow videos that you can replay as often as needed.

You’ll also pick up extra skills like stress-free nail trims, ear and paw care, and even tips for reading canine body language. The result? A healthier coat, a more comfortable dog, and more bonding time together—all while saving money on professional grooms!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Hand Stripping Dogs

Hand-stripping can feel confusing at first, so let’s clear up some of the most common questions pet parents ask.

Is hand-stripping painful for dogs?

No, when done correctly, handstripping should NOT hurt. The hairs removed are already dead and loose in the follicle. Dogs may find the process unusual at first, but most adjust quickly. Some even find it relaxing.

Is there a specific shampoo for wire-haired dogs?

Yes. Wiry breed shampoos are made to clean while preserving the coarse texture of the coat. They avoid heavy conditioners that soften the hair. Always choose formulas designed for wire-haired breeds.

How often does my dog need to be hand stripped?

Most wire-coated dogs benefit from hand stripping every 8–12 weeks. Rolling the coat weekly at home can help extend the time between full sessions.

Why not just clip a wiry coat?

Clipping cuts the hair but leaves dead hairs trapped. Over time, this softens the coat, fades the color, and can even cause skin irritation. Hand-stripping removes the old hairs completely so new, healthy ones can grow in.

Can I hand-strip my dog at home, or should I always use a professional?

With patience and the right tools, many pet parents successfully hand strip at home. If you’re brand new, it may help to have a professional show you the basics first—or follow along with a step-by-step course, such as the one offered by Paw Parent Academy.

What tools do I need to hand strip a dog properly?

The essentials are:

• Coarse stripping knife
• Fine stripping knife
• Finger cot
• Stripping stone
• Carding knife
• Top coat brush

Does handstripping change the dog’s behavior or comfort?

No, but a freshly stripped coat can make the skin more sensitive for a day or two. Regular hand stripping keeps the coat healthier, which means your dog is more comfortable in the long run.

How long does a full hand-stripping session take?

It depends on the dog’s size, coat condition, and your experience. Small breeds may take 1–2 hours. Larger or heavily coated breeds can take longer. Breaking it into shorter sessions often works best, so that’s what we recommend!