Handstripping
Terrier breeds tend to have coarse fur which lends itself to being stripped with finger and thumb once the coat is ready or "blown". This normally has to take place 3-4 times a year to give the new coat time to grow through. An old coat will be itchy and uncomfortable and by stripping it out this will ensure the dog remains waterproofed in all weather conditions.
How do I know when my terrier is ready for stripping? When his outer coat is falling out or can easily be plucked out as it will only be held in by the very tip of the hair root.
Does it hurt the dog? No, not if the coat is ready to be stripped. The sensation will be similar to being tickled. Most dogs enjoy the procedure and some even start to snooze! Sometimes older dogs of 10 years and above develop sensitivity to being stripped and an alternative method of clipping can be used at this time. However, if clipped regularly the dog's coat will lose its coarse texture and become softer over time and will no longer lend itself to being stripped again.