Trimming & Stripping for Dogs and Cats

What is Trimming?

Trimming refers to the process of manually removing (plucking) mature fur that doesn’t shed naturally.

Although it may sound uncomfortable, trimming is completely painless for the animal, as only dead hair is removed.

This procedure helps maintain the coat’s texture, promotes healthy skin, and enhances the overall appearance of your pet.

What is trimming used for?

This procedure is necessary for animals with coarse or wire-haired coats.

Thanks to trimming:

• the coat renews more quickly;
• dead skin cells from the surface are removed, reducing the risk of inflammation;
• it prevents the formation of “hairballs” (which can occur when dead outer hair tangles with the undercoat);
• it replaces natural shedding for animals that hardly molt;
• it improves the thickness and texture of the coat;
• after trimming, the pet looks neat and well cared for — the coat lies smoothly and evenly along the body instead of matting.

Before shows, trimming is an essential procedure because it maintains the natural structure of the coat.

Types of Trimming

Trimming is usually divided into three main types: hygienic, cosmetic, and exhibition. What’s the difference between them?

Hygienic (Full) Trimming.
This type of trimming is performed to maintain the health of the skin and coat. Dead hair is removed from the entire body except for the face, belly, and groin. It promotes proper coat growth and keeps the skin healthy. Hygienic trimming is typically done every six months.
Cosmetic Trimming.
Also known as “rolling” or “light trimming,” this method involves thinning the outer coat to maintain the correct texture and length. It keeps the coat looking even and tidy, and is recommended every three months.
Exhibition Trimming.
The main purpose of exhibition trimming is to create a perfect outline and highlight the breed’s distinctive features. This procedure is performed before shows and competitions to achieve a polished, show-ready appearance.

Who needs trimming?

As mentioned above, trimming is necessary for breeds with coarse fur and an undercoat.

Most often, trimming is performed on the following dog breeds:

• Terriers;
• Schnauzers;
• Wire-Haired Dachshunds;
• English and American Cocker Spaniels.

For cats, the following breeds typically require trimming:

• British Longhair Cats;
• Rex;
• Oriental Cats;
• Scottish Folds;
• Abyssinians.

It’s important to understand that the breeds listed above are simply the ones most commonly subjected to trimming, but not all of them necessarily require it. For more detailed information, click here

What is Stripping?

Stripping, also known as “artificial molting,” is the process of plucking out mature hair. It is a mechanical procedure rather than a manual one. Unlike trimming, which is done entirely by hand, stripping involves the use of a specialized tool called a stripping knife or a stripping stone (a type of pumice stone). The essence and purpose of the procedure are the same as trimming — removing the “dead hair” from the coat. However, stripping is typically performed during the animal’s natural molting period.

The choice of plucking method depends on various factors, such as the specific coat type of the animal and the time remaining before a show or exhibition. After either procedure, the pet should be thoroughly brushed.

For more detailed information and an individual consultation about your pet, you can contact our salon “OH! Hundesalon” in Essen by phone at +49 15563 120713 or schedule a consultation here.

You can also schedule a procedure at a convenient day and time for you here.