What is the key difference in consequence between hand-stripping and clipping the Westie coat?
Answer
Clipping results in a softer coat that mats more easily
The choice between hand-stripping and clipping has a direct and significant impact on coat texture. Hand-stripping, the manual plucking of dead outer hairs, is the gold standard because it preserves the signature crisp, harsh texture required by the breed standard and maintains natural weather-proofing. Conversely, clipping cuts the dead hairs, causing them to blend into the live coat. This prevents the proper texture from regenerating, leading to a coat that becomes progressively softer over time and tends to mat more easily because the protective barrier is compromised.
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