Hand Stripping

Hand stripping is a traditional grooming technique used for wire-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.

Breeds commonly requiring hand stripping include Border Terriers, Lakeland Terriers, Welsh Terriers, Airedales, Westies, Scotties, Schnauzers, Cocker Spaniels, Irish Setters, English Setters, and more.

Cairn Terriers are another wire-coated breed where coat texture and the owner's styling goals matter when choosing between stripping and clipping. See our guide to Cairn Terrier hand stripping and breed-specific coat care.

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

Hand Stripping (No Bath)
$100 / hour (1-hour minimum)
This service is charged hourly based on your dog’s coat condition, size, and behavior.
Most small terriers typically need 2–2.5 hours for a full hand stripping session.
Dogs with a heavier coat, longer time between appointments, or sensitivity may require additional time.

Includes: full body hand stripping only (no bath or finishing work)

Full Service Hand Stripping
Starting at $250 (approx. 2.5 hours)
A complete grooming service for wire-coated dogs, designed to keep the coat healthy and maintain proper texture and color.
Final price may vary depending on coat density, matting/undercoat buildup, and the amount of time needed.

Includes:

• Full body hand stripping
• Bath & blow-dry
• Sanitary trim
• Paw pad trim
• Nail grinding
• Ear cleaning