The Norfolk Terrier is usually hand stripped. Over trimming s undesirable, but regular brushing on a daily basis is essential. Described as shaggy, the Norfolk Terrier coat is hard and wiry. It is straight and lies close to the body, as well as being weatherproof. The hair is longer and rougher on the neck and shoulders, while the hair on the head and ears is short and smooth, except for slight whiskers and eyebrows. The ears need to be picked to keep the hair on them short.

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

Breed tip: Establish whether the owner likes the natural or smart look before starting.

• Brush and comb through.
• Strip the body by hand or knife, to remove any straggly hairs and to neaten its appearance to a natural-looking finish.
• Bathe the Norfolk Terrier in a mild shampoo and thoriughly rinse.
• Air, cage, or gently blow dry.
• Comb with a medium-toothed comb.
• Check the dog’s nails, ears and teeth.
• Check between the toes for excess hair and remove with scissors.
• Both the pet and show dog will need the genital/anal area kept clean and hair-free for hygiene. The pet dog should also be scissored down the legs to neaten its appearance, as well as having the head tidied of straggly bits.
• The show dog needs constant attention to the coat, with finger, thumb, and knife-stripping. The coat is required to be brushed frequently enough to keep it in good order, and will not be bathed as often as the pet dog.