Why Handstripping is Essential for Cairn Terriers
Cairn Terriers are known for their charming personalities and unique double coats, but maintaining this signature look and the health of their coat requires a specialised grooming technique called handstripping. Unlike clipping or shaving, handstripping removes dead hair from the root, preserving the coat’s natural qualities and ensuring your Cairn Terrier looks and feels its best.
Ideally groomed wheaten Cairn Terrier at CRUFTS’24
Understanding the Double Coat
Cairn Terriers are double-coated dogs, meaning their coats have two distinct layers:
Outer Coat: Coarse, weather-resistant, and designed to protect your dog from the elements.
Undercoat: Soft, insulating, and essential for regulating body temperature.
The outer coat isn’t just for aesthetics—it serves as a functional protective barrier, shielding your Cairn Terrier from harsh weather conditions, dirt, and even minor injuries. When left unmaintained, this coat can lose its texture and weather-resistant qualities.
Handstripping is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the outer coat. Unlike clipping, which cuts the hair and leaves it dull and lifeless, handstripping pulls out dead hairs from the root, stimulating regrowth and preserving the natural texture and colour.
The Importance of Preserving the Outer Coat
Handstripping isn’t just about appearances—it’s essential for your dog’s health and well-being. Over time, if the outer coat isn’t properly stripped, it can lead to:
A dull, unhealthy coat.
Loss of the coat’s weather-resistant qualities.
Skin irritation and discomfort due to dead hair build-up.
The importance of handstripping Cairn Terriers is even being recognised in campaigns like this Change.org petition, which highlights the outer coat’s critical role in protecting these dogs.
Why Clipping is Not the Answer
While clipping may seem like a quick fix, it can lead to long-term issues for Cairn Terriers:
Clipping cuts the hair shaft, altering the texture and making the coat softer and less weather-resistant.
Over time, the coat can lose its vibrant colour and start matting more easily.
It prevents the outer coat from naturally regenerating, diminishing its protective qualities.
The Benefits of Handstripping Your Cairn Terrier
Healthier Coat: Removes dead hair, stimulates growth, and maintains the coat’s natural structure.
Enhanced Appearance: Preserves the coarse texture and vibrant colour Cairn Terriers are known for.
Comfort: Prevents dead hair build-up, which can cause irritation or skin problems.
Show-Ready Look: Handstripping is essential for Cairns participating in dog shows, where judges evaluate coat quality.
Learn How to Handstrip Your Cairn Terrier
Finding a groomer who truly understands the correct handstripping technique for Cairn Terriers can be a challenge. Many groomers default to clipping, which may be quicker but ultimately damages the coat's unique texture and weather-resistant properties.
That’s why we recommend that Cairn Terrier owners learn the art of handstripping themselves. Handstripping may seem intimidating, but with the right guidance, it’s a skill any Cairn Terrier owner can master. If you want to learn step-by-step techniques, join our Live Handstripping Classes designed specifically for Cairn Terrier owners.
Through our classes, you’ll gain confidence, learn the proper tools to use, and discover the art of preserving your dog’s unique coat. Our interactive sessions provide step-by-step instructions, demonstrations, and the opportunity to ask questions in real time.
Learn how to Hand-Strip your own Cairn Terrier: