[Lara's mom]

Is it really necessary to hand strip the coat of a JRT? I should mention that her coat is thin - not much hair on the legs and the tummy is bare. She gets frequent brushings and a reasonable amount of hair is removed.

I've asked a couple of groomers and they want $150.00+ (CDN). She is a shorty and therefore a very small dog. That seems to me to be an outrageous price. Is just bathing and brushing alright?

[oes forever]

no dog HAS to be stripped. yes it is in the dogs best interest if you want to keep the coat harsh and a good natural colour. but it can also be clipped too. but this softens the coat and looses some of the colour.
why not have a go at stripping it yourself. pulling a few hairs at a time in the direction of the coat. there is various tools to help you, stripping knives or even finger rubbers. just do so much a day till you get used to it. theres lots of websites which help you. just be patient.
i would only charge £30 for a hand strip for your dog. so get different quotes.

[Lara's mom]

What if I overdo it and the poor thing ends up with bald patches or all uneven? Also, wouldn't it hurt to have her hair pulled like that?

[oes forever]

in the worst case, it will grow back. it doesn hurt the dog, but you cant just do it any time, theres a time when the hair will easily come out (but still need a little tug) and a time when it may hurt. without seeing the dog i cant help you! its a bit like when it moults.
just found this site, its a border terrier but the principle is the same
http://www.emblehope.co.uk/border-te...-and-grooming/

[Lara's mom]

I'll check it out. Thanks!!!