Wire-Coated Dog Grooming: Stripping vs Clipping

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Terriers, Schnauzers, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons and Border Terriers have the crisp, wiry coat that gave the type its name. It sheds little, repels dirt and weather and gives these breeds their sharp outline. How you maintain it determines whether it stays that way.

What is a wire coat?

A wire coat has two layers. The outer layer is made of harsh, coarse hair that lies flat and feels like wire. Beneath it is a soft, dense undercoat. The hairs do not shed readily, so dead hair stays in the coat until removed. See our guide to identifying your dog's coat type.

Hand stripping

Hand stripping means pulling out dead hairs by hand or with a stripping knife, in the direction of growth. It removes dead coat, stimulates new growth and keeps the texture and color rich. Show dogs and many pet owners use this method.

• Done on a coat that is ready, stripping is usually comfortable for the dog.
• It takes skill, so many owners rely on a groomer experienced in stripping.
• The coat is typically stripped two to four times a year, with rolling, a process of stripping sections at intervals, for a continuous look.

Clipping

Most pet wire-coated dogs are clipped with clippers every four to eight weeks. It is fast and gives a neat look. The downside is that clipping cuts through the harsh hair, leaving the soft undercoat, so the coat often becomes softer, fluffier and paler, and loses weather protection. Some dogs also develop more skin issues after repeated clipping.

Which should you choose?

• Hand strip if you want to preserve the coat, show your dog or have access to a skilled groomer.
• Clip if you want an easy maintenance option, your dog dislikes stripping or the coat is already softened.
• Carding or rolling is a lighter method that removes dead undercoat with a stripping knife and can be a compromise.

Talk to your groomer about your goals.

Between-groom care

• Brush and comb weekly with a slicker brush and metal comb to remove dead hair and prevent tangles. See how to brush a dog properly.
• Brush beards and legs, which tangle easily. See Miniature Schnauzer grooming.
• Trim around the eyes and paws. See how to trim hair around a dog's eyes and paw pad hair.
• Clean ears and trim hair if advised.

Bathing

Wire coats are naturally dirt-repellent, so they need fewer baths. Over-washing softens the coat. Bathe every six to twelve weeks, or when dirty, using a wire-coat or mild shampoo. Skip heavy conditioners, which soften the hair. See how to bathe a dog at home.

Doing it at home

If you want to strip at home, start by learning from a professional. Use stripping knives sparingly, work with the grain and never use force. Stop if your dog is distressed. If you clip at home, see how to clip your dog at home and clipper guard sizes.

Coat color and texture changes

After clipping, the coat can become lighter and softer. Some owners accept this, while others prefer the rich, harsh coat of a stripped dog. Once clipped for years, the coat may not return to its original texture.

Skin and health

Check the skin for irritation, hot spots and parasites while grooming. Some wire-coated breeds are prone to skin allergies. See how to remove mats for tangle care in longer areas.

The takeaway

Stripping preserves a wire coat, while clipping makes it easier. Choose the approach that fits your dog and keep brushing regularly.