I MAY (stress may) have found my little Border. I have never owned this breed before and am interested to know if it is possible to learn how to strip their coats myself. Would a regular dog groomer show me how to do this or is it more specialised?
thank you

Ask the breeder to show you how. Many so called proffesional groomers are anything but when it comes to proper coat care of trimmed terriers. for Pets the clippers are easiest and cheapest, adn many owners are happy with a short back and sides.

you should be able to learn to do it yourself.

Racheal

i always love this question as it always makes me smile. Of course you can learn how to do it yourself - all groomers learn - it aint in-built:D the question is how to learn. The breeder is your best bet. Let her know that you want to keep your Border looking like a Border and would she help. The answer will hopefully be "yes":). There are some vidoes you can get that may help also have a good look for a decent breed book. They usually give you the basics. But there is no substitute for hands on training watching and being guided by someone who knows. You'll not find many grooming parlours willing to let you watch - they want your money;) But there are some. We have one fairly locally that charges but will train you to groom your dog. It's in Keighley if Iremember rightly if that's any good.

hth

Pam n the boys

Hi Racheal.
Congratulations!!!! at last!!
NEVER NEVER have your Border clipped it will ruin the coat. Hand stripping is not hard and you CAN do it yourself with a little practice. You will need a stripping knife and a tough set of fingers!!
Where do you live, I could show you if you want me to. Basically everything past the eyes comes off. A lot of people let the coat grow to its fullest before they strip it, me, well I am affraid I cannot tolerate untidy, scruffy dogs, so I strip mine every 6 weeks or so. It really is quite difficult to explain properly over the computer, but as for proffesionals, I don't think they will show you in case they become "redundant". The other option is ask the breeder you are getting your pup from, could they help? Have a think, get in touch with me if you want any more help, and we will see what we can come up with.
Dawn.

Thank you all for your advice, in particular the very kind offer from Dawn. I have spoken to the breeder who is going to show me what to do.

I would also join your breed club, I know the westie ones do grooming seminars, which are very good so I presume border terrier clubs will hold these as well, the breeder should be able to help you.