Hand Stripping

Hand stripping is a traditional grooming technique used for wire-coated and certain double-coated breeds. Instead of clipping the coat, we remove ready-to-shed topcoat hair by hand (or with a stripping tool) to help the coat keep its proper texture, color, and natural protection.

For many terriers and wire-coated breeds, clipping can make the coat feel softer, look dull, and grow back uneven over time. Hand stripping supports a healthier coat cycle — keeping your dog’s coat crisp, neat, and breed-appropriate, while helping reduce shedding of dead coat.

At Rebel Tails, we keep the experience calm and pet-first — no cages, no rushing, no rough handling.

We start with a quick coat assessment to confirm whether hand stripping is the right option for your dog’s coat type, condition, and comfort level. Then we work in sections, removing only hair that’s ready to come out — using a gentle, controlled technique designed to minimize pulling and keep your dog relaxed.

Depending on your dog’s needs, the appointment may also include a bath and conditioning suited for wire coats, a tidy-up of areas like the feet and hygiene zones, plus finishing details for a clean outline.

Hand stripping works best as part of a routine — either full sessions or “rolling the coat” maintenance — so your dog stays looking sharp and comfortable between visits.