To strip a Border Terrier with a stripping knife, start by pulling out as much of the dead coat as possible with your index finger and thumb. Then, use the stripping knife to scrape away the dead hair, making sure to take care not to cut the coat with the knife. Once you’ve removed the bulk of the coat, use the knife to work through the coat and remove any remaining dead hair. Finally, use a slicker brush to smooth and finish the coat.
At what age do you start stripping a border terrier?
Generally, you should start stripping a border terrier’s coat when they are between 5-6 months old. However, it’s best to check the coat at 2 months and then every two weeks up to 3 months to make sure it’s ready to be stripped. Once the coat becomes ‘blown’, meaning the hairs are starting to part naturally, that’s when you should begin with stripping.
Can I hand strip my dog myself?
Yes, you can hand strip your dog yourself, but it takes a lot of practice and patience to perfect the technique. Hand stripping involves using a stripping knife or a stripping stone to pull out the dead hair from the coat, and it is a much more time-consuming process than using a clipper or scissors. It is best to start with a breed that is known for being hand-stripped, such as a Wirehaired Dachshund, Welsh Terrier, or Giant Schnauzer, and to practice on a friend’s well-behaved dog before trying it on your own. It is important to be careful and patient when hand stripping, as it can be painful if done incorrectly.
How often should a border terrier be hand stripped?
A Border Terrier should generally be hand stripped every four to six weeks. This allows for the coat to remain its harsh texture and keep the terrier looking like a correct border. If the coat grows slowly, this interval can be extended to eight weeks.
Can you over strip a border terrier?
Yes, it is possible to over strip a border terrier. Over stripping occurs when too much of the coat is removed, leaving the dog with a patchy and uneven coat. This can happen if the wrong tools are used or if the stripping process is done too quickly. It is important to use the right tools and take your time when hand-stripping a border terrier to prevent over stripping.