The coat of the Border Terrier is not clipped, but will require stripping out by hand twice a year. This will give the dog a new lease on life, as well as removing uncomfortable and itchy layers of dead coat. When the hairs start to form a natural parting and fall into clumps, the dog is ready to be stripped.Some grooming salons do not hand-strip, but it is a pity to ruin this wonderful little dog’s coat by running the clippers over it. Stripping takes time; the groomer must discuss this with the owner and charge accordingly.

The Grooming Process

Equipment needed: Stripping knife, fine-toothed comb, slicker or pin brush, scissors.

The coat could be rolled on a regular basis to keep the dog looking smart throughout the year.

• Comb the dog thoroughly with a fine-toothed comb.
• Starting behind the shoulders, and working down the entire body, finger and thumb hand-stripping is the correct practice. However, should a knife be used, one with a serrated edge is preferable. The coat is easier to strip when it is rubbed up the wrong way. Be sure to pull the coat in the direction of the hair growth. It should come out easily if it is ready to strip.
• Part the hair underneath the tail to remove the hair on either side. Trim with scissors around the anal area.
• Take the long hair from the skull and inside the ear.
• Trim the hair of the foot upward, removing the long hair on the back of the pastern with a stripping knife.
• If absolutely necessary ( for instant, the dog has rolled in something nasty ), then bathe it. Show dogs are rarely, if ever, bathed, as it can soften the required harsh coat. Use a protein shampoo, and rinse thoroughly.
• Dry in a cage or with a dryer on a low blow setting.
• Most dogs, however, only require daily brushing to keep the coat clean and in good condition.
• Finally, remember to check the dog’s nails, ears and teeth.