Hand stripping is a specialised technique designed to preserve the natural look and functionality of certain coat types. Essential for breeds with wiry or silky coats, such as Terriers, Schnauzers, and Spaniels, it maintains the coat's signature texture and keeps it healthy and functional over time.
By removing dead hair by hand, the technique encourages natural regrowth, promotes healthy skin, helps regulate the shedding cycle, and reduces the risk of matting.
Before booking, each dog must be assessed for suitability. Grooming history and factors such as neutering can affect whether hand stripping is appropriate.
A wash and blow-dry are not included in this service but are available on request at no extra cost.
The service includes nail trimming, ear cleaning, and hygiene maintenance, leaving your dog looking and feeling their best.
Jack Russell Terrier, Miniature Dachshunds
Border Terrier, West Highland White Terrier
Irish Terrier, Airedale Terrier, Giant Schnauzer
The listed prices represent starting rates for small, medium, and large dogs, with breed examples for size reference. Final pricing may vary based on coat condition and temperament, which influence the appointment duration and overall cost.
Hand stripping is a traditional grooming technique for breeds with wiry or double-textured coats, including many terriers, spaniels, and working gundogs. Rather than cutting the hair, dead coat is removed by hand or with specialist tools, allowing new healthy hair to grow through naturally. This preserves the coat's texture, colour, and protective qualities while promoting healthy skin. For breeds that should be hand stripped, clipping will gradually soften the texture, dull the natural colour, and weaken the coat's protective qualities over time. For certain breeds, hand stripping is the correct method, not just aesthetically but for the long-term health of the coat. Please note that neutered dogs or those that have been clipped multiple times may no longer be suitable for hand stripping. We assess every dog before booking.
When done correctly, hand stripping is completely pain-free. We only remove dead hair that is naturally ready to shed, which causes no discomfort and allows healthy new coat to grow through. For the right breeds in the right condition, it is a natural and beneficial process. Your dog's comfort is our priority throughout, and we work calmly and gently at every stage.
It depends on the breed, coat type, and growth rate. For most wire-haired breeds, hand stripping every eight to twelve weeks is a good general guide. Dogs on a rolling coat may need attention every six to eight weeks, while others require a groom less frequently. Your groomer will assess your dog and recommend the right schedule based on your preference and their individual coat.
Technically yes, but it is worth understanding what that means for your dog's coat long term. For breeds that should be hand stripped, clipping the hair will gradually soften the texture, dull the natural colour, and weaken the coat's protective qualities over time. Once a coat has been clipped repeatedly, it often becomes unsuitable for hand stripping altogether, meaning the change can be permanent. If you are unsure which approach is right for your dog, we are happy to advise before you book.
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Jade is the loveliest person ever. She goes above and beyond with her grooms and the care she provides to both pets, and their owners.Thank you Jade & Team for looking after our puppy Coco 🥰
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The Melange
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Joe McCanta
What a great first time experience at Hackney Barkers! I had been wanting to take Elliot there for months until I was recently able to get an appointment. Staff couldn’t have been nicer and more professional. Elliot came out looking amazing and smelling heavenly. It probably is the best haircut he has ever had (he is now 3). Thank you!
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Hackney Barkers is fantastic! The team is so friendly and always looks after my dog so well. He always comes back looking amazing and really happy. The salon is so clean and never smells bad like other places I’ve been to. I’m so glad we found them. Happy Holidays🙌
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We just need a few details to get the ball rolling! Every dog is unique, and this helps us tailor their grooming experience and book an appointment that fits your schedule.
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