HandStripping For Westies

As a proud owner of many West Highland White Terriers (Westie), I’ve always been passionate about keeping my dogs' coats looking their best. However, like many pet parents, I’ve often wondered about the best grooming practices for my furry kids. 

My late Cookie had a great and dense coat so he went for regular trimming. Cotton naturally followed. I always thought regular trimming was enough and didn’t fully appreciate the benefits of handstripping until Monte came along. He benefitted the most although Cotton also underwent handstripping. Here’s what I’ve learned and why I now swear by handstripping for Westies.

1. My Journey with Handstripping: From Skepticism to Belief

I have to admit that I was skeptical about handstripping at first. Pain seems to be associated with the word “handstripping”. I met up with a few westie owners who advocated the benefits of handstripping. After which, I thought, "Why not just my dogs on board for handstripping?" After a few more rounds of researching, speaking to westie owners, and a potential groomer, I decided to give handstripping a go to manage Monte’s skin health and coat texture.

I sent Monte to Shiting, a reputable groomer from Wooga and an owner of multiple westies, who is experienced with handstripping. To be honest, I was a little nervous, wondering if this traditional grooming technique would live up to the hype. What a pleasant surprise it was when I saw Monte after his grooming session. Not only did his coat look shinier and healthier, it also seemed to grow back fuller and more vibrant than ever after a few sessions. His skin, which had previously been a little dry and flaky, appeared more nourished, and he was no longer scratching as much. Handstripping was, without a doubt, a game-changer.

2. The Benefits of Handstripping for Westies

Handstripping is a technique where the groomer pulls out dead hairs from the coat using their fingers or special tools, rather than trimming or clipping them. This process is particularly beneficial for certain breeds, like the Westie, whose coats are designed to be handstripped for optimal health.

Here are a few key benefits of handstripping for Westies:

A Healthier Coat:
Westies have a double coat—an outer, wiry layer and a soft, dense undercoat. Over time, the dead hairs in the outer layer can become trapped, causing the coat to appear dull and tangled. By handstripping, the dead hairs are gently removed, allowing new and healthy hairs to grow in. This process results in a fuller, more vibrant coat, giving your Westie the sleek, beautiful look they’re known for.

Improved Skin Health:
As handstripping involves removing dead hairs by hand, it also helps stimulate the skin beneath the coat. This gentle stimulation promotes circulation and can improve skin health, reducing dryness and irritation. Additionally, it prevents the hair follicles from becoming clogged, which can lead to skin infections or other dermatological issues.

Less Shedding:
If you’re tired of finding dog hair all over your furniture, handstripping can help. Unlike clipping, which often causes a Westie’s coat to shed more, handstripping encourages the natural shedding process. As dead hairs are removed, your Westie sheds less fur, which means fewer stray hairs around the house.

More Natural Appearance:
Handstripping preserves the natural texture of a Westie’s coat. While trimming can cause the coat to lose its wiry structure and soft texture, handstripping keeps the coat looking as nature intended, with a healthy mix of softness and crispness that enhances your Westie’s signature look.

Prevention of Matting and Tangles:
Handstripping helps prevent mats and tangles by removing dead hairs before they have a chance to knot up. This means your Westie’s coat will stay easier to maintain between grooming sessions, and it reduces the need for constant brushing.

3. Finding a Reputable Groomer

While the benefits of handstripping are clear, it’s essential to understand that it’s not a technique that can be done by just anyone. Proper handstripping requires skill and experience, especially when working with a breed like the Westie. For the best results, I highly recommend finding a reputable groomer who is specifically trained in handstripping.

Here are some tips for finding a skilled groomer:

Look for Experience:
Ask your veterinarian or local pet owners for recommendations on groomers who specialise in handstripping. You can also check online reviews to find groomers who are experienced in working with terriers like Westies.

Check for Certification:
Many professional groomers pursue certifications to demonstrate their expertise. Look for groomers who have undergone specialised training or who are members of recognized grooming associations. This ensures that they are familiar with the correct techniques for handstripping and the care needed for your Westie’s coat.

Ask About the Process:
A good groomer will be happy to explain the handstripping process to you. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about their methods, the tools they use, and how they handle sensitive areas. You want to ensure that the groomer uses gentle techniques that won’t harm your Westie’s skin or coat.

Check Their Reputation:
Word-of-mouth recommendations from other Westie owners can be invaluable. If you don’t know anyone personally who has used handstripping services, look for online forums, Facebook groups, or breed-specific communities where you can ask for advice.

The Secret to a Healthier, Happier Westie

Handstripping has transformed Monte’s coat and skin health, and I’m so glad that I decided to give it a try. If you have a Westie or any other terrier breed, I highly recommend considering handstripping as part of their grooming routine.

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