How to Groom a Wire-Haired Parson Russell Terrier?

Grooming your wire-haired Parson Russell terrier is more time-consuming than challenging. It is accomplished by hand or with the use of a stripping comb, sometimes referred to as a stripping knife or stripper. The procedure is painless when done correctly and should be repeated at least twice a year with maintenance in between. For pet Parson Russell terriers, it is acceptable to clip sensitive areas rather than stripping to avoid discomfort.

Things You'll Need

  • Stripping comb
  • Dog shampoo
  • Towel
  • Firm-bristle grooming brush
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Bathe your Parson Russell terrier with a dog shampoo, if necessary, and dry thoroughly before grooming. Parson Russell terriers should be bathed only two to three times a year.

    • 2

      Comb the coat in the direction it grows -- against the direction of growth will cause pain -- with the stripping comb. This can also be done using your hands in a method called, "hand stripping," in which the same procedure is followed, but you use your hands instead of a comb to pull the hair out.

    • 3

      Continue combing out the hair until a soft, smooth look is achieved. This effectively clears out all the dead wiry hair from the undercoat, allowing fresh hair to fill in. Your Parson Russell terrier's coat should be stripped at least twice a year.

    • 4

      Run a firm-bristle brush for dogs over the coat at the end of the stripping session. This will pick up any remaining hairs and give the coat a smooth, finished look. Brushing should be repeated weekly between strippings.