Hand Stripping
Traditional technique for wire-haired breeds
Traditional technique for wire-haired breeds
Hand stripping is a traditional dog grooming technique used for wire-haired breeds such as Terriers, Schnauzers, and Spaniels. Instead of clipping, this method removes dead coat by hand with professional stripping tools, helping to maintain the natural texture, color, and protective qualities of the wire coat.
Our experienced dog groomers in Lisbon use hand stripping to promote healthy coat growth and keep each breed's authentic look. This service is especially important for show dogs and for owners who want to preserve the classic appearance and health of their wire-haired dog's coat.
We begin by discussing your dog's breed, coat condition, and grooming history. This helps us tailor the session to your dog's specific needs and ensure the best possible result.
Our groomer carefully examines the coat to determine which areas are ready for stripping. Only dead, blown coat is removed - we never pull live hair. This assessment ensures the process is comfortable for your dog.
Using specialized stripping knives and finger cots, we gently remove the dead outer coat in the direction of hair growth. This technique preserves the natural wire texture and encourages healthy new growth from the follicle.
Once the dead coat is removed, we shape the remaining hair to match your breed's standard or your preferred look. Transition areas are carefully blended for a clean, natural finish.
We tidy up sensitive areas such as paws, ears, and sanitary zones. A final brush-through and inspection ensure every detail is perfect before your dog is ready to go home.
| Breed | Coat Type | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Wire Fox Terrier | Dense, wiry | Every 6-8 weeks |
| Airedale Terrier | Hard, dense, wiry | Every 6-8 weeks |
| Miniature Schnauzer | Double coat, wiry outer | Every 6-8 weeks |
| Standard Schnauzer | Hard, wiry, thick | Every 8-10 weeks |
| Giant Schnauzer | Dense, hard, wiry | Every 8-10 weeks |
| West Highland White Terrier | Hard, straight outer | Every 8-10 weeks |
| Border Terrier | Harsh, dense | Every 8-10 weeks |
| Welsh Terrier | Hard, wiry, dense | Every 6-8 weeks |
| Irish Terrier | Dense, wiry | Every 6-8 weeks |
| Cocker Spaniel (wire coat) | Flat or wavy, wiry | Every 8-12 weeks |
| Wirehaired Dachshund | Short, thick, wiry | Every 8-10 weeks |
| Wirehaired Pointing Griffon | Harsh, straight | Every 10-12 weeks |
| Size | Example Breeds | Price | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | Brussels Griffon, Wirehaired Dachshund, Jack Russell, Parson Russell | from €80 | 3 hours |
| Medium | Border Terrier, Fox Terrier, Welsh Terrier, Westie, Cairn Terrier | from €100 | 3.5 hours |
| Large | Miniature Schnauzer, Irish Terrier, English Cocker, Scottish Terrier, Airedale | from €120 | 4+ hours |
Most wire-coated breeds benefit from hand stripping every 6 to 8 weeks. Some breeds with slower coat growth, such as Border Terriers or Westies, can go 8 to 10 weeks between sessions. We will recommend the ideal schedule for your dog during the initial consultation.
No. When performed correctly, hand stripping is painless. We only remove dead hair that has already loosened from the follicle, similar to how you might brush out loose hair. Dogs typically relax during the process, and many even fall asleep. If a dog shows any sign of discomfort, we stop and reassess immediately.
Clipping cuts the hair at the surface, which over time causes the coat to become softer, duller in color, and lose its natural weather-resistant texture. Hand stripping removes the entire dead hair from the root, allowing a new, vibrant wire coat to grow in with its proper color and protective qualities intact.
Hand stripping is a specialized skill that requires extensive training and practice. Not all groomers are proficient in this technique. Our team at PawsN'Surf has specific experience with wire-coated breeds and uses traditional hand stripping methods to deliver breed-standard results.
Our professional dog groomers in Lisbon have over 12 years of hands-on experience with all breeds and coat types. Skilled in hand stripping, breed-specific styling, and specialized techniques, they ensure every grooming session is safe, thorough, and stress-free for your pet.
We use premium, skin-friendly grooming products to keep your dog's coat glossy and skin healthy. Each treatment reduces irritation, prevents dryness, and brings out the natural shine of your pet's fur. Our groomers also share practical tips to maintain coat health between visits.
Every dog is unique, and so is our grooming approach. From puppies to senior dogs, we tailor each session to your pet's age, breed, coat type, and temperament. Whether your dog needs hand stripping, a full body groom, or a quick wash, we customize the care to match.
Lead Groomer & Founder, Hand Stripping Specialist
Viktoria brings 12+ years of professional dog grooming experience and is one of the few hand stripping specialists in Lisbon. She excels at breed-specific styling for Terriers, Schnauzers, and Spaniels.
Our skilled team is here to treat your dog with expert care, from head to paws.
Real experiences from pet owners who trust us with their furry friends