“`html
Stripping, in the context of dog grooming, refers to a technique used to remove the dead, outer coat of specific dog breeds with wiry or coarse hair. It’s a crucial process for maintaining the health and appearance of these breeds, as it encourages the growth of a new, healthy coat and prevents skin problems.
Unlike clipping or shaving, which simply cut the hair shafts, stripping involves plucking the dead hair out by the root. This might sound painful, but when done correctly on a dog with a coat ready to be stripped, the hair comes out easily and painlessly. The dead hair is already detached from the follicle and is essentially being removed. The key is to identify when the coat is “ripe” for stripping, meaning the dead hair is loose and easily removed.
The primary breeds that benefit from stripping include many terriers like the Wire Fox Terrier, Scottish Terrier, Airedale Terrier, and Irish Terrier, as well as some sporting breeds like the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon. These breeds naturally shed very little, and their dead hair doesn’t fall out on its own. If left unstripped, the dead coat can become thick and matted, trapping dirt and moisture, leading to skin irritation, infections, and a dull, lackluster appearance. Furthermore, clipping a wire-coated breed instead of stripping can eventually soften the coat’s texture, diminishing its desired wiry quality.
Stripping is typically performed using specialized tools such as stripping knives and thumb rubbers. Stripping knives aren’t actually sharp knives; they have dull, serrated edges that help grip the hair. Thumb rubbers are rubber coverings for the thumb and forefinger that provide a better grip on the hair. The groomer uses these tools to grasp small sections of hair and pull them out in the direction of hair growth. The process is usually done in layers, working methodically over the dog’s body.
It’s important to note that stripping is a skill that requires practice and knowledge. A poorly performed stripping job can be uncomfortable for the dog and can damage the coat. Therefore, it’s best left to experienced groomers who are familiar with the technique and the specific needs of each breed. Owners can also learn to strip their own dogs with proper instruction from a professional groomer.
Regular stripping, typically every few months, keeps the coat healthy, vibrant, and true to breed standard. It also helps prevent skin problems and minimizes shedding. While clipping might seem like a quicker and easier option, for wiry-coated breeds, stripping is the superior choice for long-term coat health and maintaining the desired texture and appearance.
“`
Leave a Reply