Hand stripping for wire-coated dogs in Sidcup
Hand stripping removes dead outer coat by hand instead of clipping it off. It is slower, kinder to a wire coat, and it keeps the deep colour and harsh texture a clipper flattens.
What's involved
- Best for border, fox, Airedale and Jack Russell terriers, schnauzers, cockers and wire-haired dachshunds.
- Millie leads all hand-stripping appointments and works to the breed's natural coat pattern.
- Sessions run three to three and a half hours — we split the work across visits for younger or nervous dogs.
- Rolling the coat every eight to twelve weeks keeps a dog permanently in decent condition.
Common questions
Does hand stripping hurt?
No. Only dead hair that is ready to shed is pulled, and a coat that is ready comes away easily. If a coat is not ready we say so rather than forcing it.
How often should it be done?
Every eight to twelve weeks to roll the coat. If your dog has been clipped for years, expect two or three sessions before the texture returns.
Can a clipped dog go back to hand stripping?
Usually yes, but it takes time. We'll be honest at the first appointment about what is realistic.
Book hand stripping in Sidcup
We're at 269 Main Road, Sidcup DA14 6QL, open Monday to Saturday 9am–5pm.