As dog owners, we all want our furry ones to feel and look good. Part of that is a proper grooming routine. You might have heard of a specialized technique called handstripping, which is used on dogs with wire coats, such as wire-haired terriers or Schnauzers. But what is it, really? And how does it compare with the more common method of clipping?
What is Handstripping in Dog Grooming?
Let’s begin with the fundamentals.
Hand-stripping is a specific grooming procedure used primarily on purebreds that have coarse or curly coats, such as Border Terriers, Irish Terriers, Schnauzers and Brussels Griffons. It is the process where dead outer hairs are manually (or using a special stripping knife) removed, thus enabling new, healthy hair to grow.
Unlike clipping, which cuts hair at the surface level, handstripping involves plucking hair out at the root. This is similar to when plucking a weed, as opposed to mowing it off.
Is Stripping Painful for Dogs?
Let’s clear this up right away: handstripping is not painful when done correctly by an experienced groomer.
On the appropriate coat type, those coarse hairs are naturally ready to release. Hair follicles have already separated the old hair, and many dogs find it very relaxing (some even fall asleep during the session!).
But it is often the timing and skills that matter. It may start to get uncomfortable if the coat isn’t ready to be stripped, or if it is stripped by a novice groomer. That is why it is better to use the services of a qualified specialist, such as a certified Master Groomer.
Handstripping vs Clipping: What is the Difference?
Neither handstripping nor clipping is unhealthy for your dog. Whether you choose one or the other is determined by what your priorities are, the breed of your dog and personal preferences.
Benefits of Handstripping for Purebred Wire-Coated Dogs
- Maintains breed standard hair coat: Wire-haired breeds have harsh, weatherproof coats. Handstripping preserves such natural texture, leaving the coat in the intended breed standard.
- Retains original coat colour: On purebred dogs, handstripping keeps the colour brilliant and deep, as is typical of the breed. This is especially necessary when you wish to show your dog or just not to change their natural appearance.
- Helps the natural coat cycle: By removing hair at the root, handstripping works with your dog’s natural shedding cycle.
Benefits of Clipping
- Speed and efficiency: Clipping is faster than handstripping, which normally takes 2-3 hours (as opposed to 30-60 minutes of clipping).
- More economical: Clipping would be less costly than handstripping, due to the difference in the time taken.
- Appropriate for all dogs: Clipping is suitable for dogs of all ages, including elderly dogs or those with delicate skin.
- Low maintenance: Clipped coats require less maintenance between grooming sessions.
Making the Right Choice for Your Dog
Choose Handstripping If:
- You have a purebred wire-coated dog and want to maintain the breed-standard appearance
- Preserving original coat colour and texture is important to you
- You’re willing to invest more time and money in traditional grooming methods
- Your dog tolerates the longer grooming process well
Choose Clipping If:
- You prioritize convenience and shorter grooming sessions
- Budget is a primary consideration
- Your dog is a mixed breed or doesn’t have a traditional wire coat
- You prefer lower maintenance between grooming appointments
- Your dog is elderly or has sensitive skin
What About Coat Health?
And this is the point: they are both just as healthy for your dog when properly executed. Neither clipping nor handstripping will damage the skin or overall health of your pet. The difference lies in aesthetics and breed standards, not health outcomes.
Your dog will be just as comfortable and healthy with either grooming method – it’s really about what matters most to you as an owner.
What Groomers Want You to Know
Most dog parents make grooming decisions for their dogs without fully understanding the available grooming options. While some people assume that handstripping is something that is done on show dogs only, others are not aware that their purebred dog might do better with classic procedures.
The key is understanding that your choice should be based on:
- Your dog’s breed and coat type
- Your aesthetic preferences
- Your budget and time constraints
- Your dog’s comfort and tolerance
Let Pawfect Spa Guide Your Decision
If you’re unsure which method is right for your dog, don’t worry – Pawfect Spa is here to help!
We have a competent staff who have expertise in both classic handstripping and contemporary clipping. We will be glad to help you select the most appropriate approach depending on the breed of your dog, your lifestyle, and preferences.
Our belief is in educating pet parents on the avenues they have. We will describe the process and help you make an informed decision about whether your pup needs a complete groom or a day at the spa.
Schedule now and let us help you choose the perfect grooming style for your pet.
The Bottom Line
Both traditional handstripping and clipping are great, healthy choices, regardless of whether you prefer one or the other. What you choose will depend on your priorities: whether to keep a breed-standard appearance and characteristic coat or take the convenient and economical route. In any case, with proficient professional grooming, your dog will appear and feel fantastic.
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