The Hairy Universe of Handstripping
A DEEP DIVE INTO ONE OF THE LEAST UNDERSTOOD-YET ESSENTIAL-TECHNIQUE OF COATCARE
Handstripping is disappearing.
As fewer groomers learn the technique, more wire and silk-coated dogs are being clipped instead of handstripped, often without owners ever knowing there was another option. Yet when performed correctly, handstripping helps maintain the coat’s natural texture, colour, weather resistance, and breed-specific appearance.
The Hairy Universe of Handstripping takes you on a journey into the science and practical application of this fascinating craft, in a quest to help more people utilise it correctly. At the end of the journey, you will have a much greater understanding of why the coat does not always turn out as anticipated and what you can do to achieve the result you want without hurting yourself or the dog.
Whether you are a professional groomer, a student or the owner of a dog with a suitable coat, this book explains not only how to handstrip—but, more importantly, why it works.
Combining current scientific knowledge with over 30 years of practical experience, the book explores coat biology, hair growth, skin health, grooming techniques, tools, coat management, and the principles behind building and maintaining a correct handstripped coat. Complex concepts are explained in a clear, accessible way and supported by hundreds of photographs, illustrations, and practical examples.
Rather than relying on tradition or myths, this book brings together evidence and experience, to help you understand the coat from the inside out.
Join the authors and educators Mia Övernäs and Carola Copland on the journey into the hairy universe, where they share over 30 years of experience in pet and show grooming.
If you’ve ever wondered why some coats lose their harsh texture, why colour fades after clipping, why your hand hurts after a grooming session or how experienced handstrippers consistently achieve outstanding results, you’ll find the answers in this almost 300-page hard cover book with additional videos that help you to dive even deeper into the topic.
Here is a short snippet of the content:
If you are on your phone and want a larger image, tap the small arrow in the lower-right corner of the video. Then choose the icon with 4 arrows and turn your phone to the horizontal position.
What does the book actually cover?
Have a look at the table of contents.
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Hairy Universe of Hand Stripping
Just when you think you’ve finally cracked the code… BAM! Along comes The Hairy Universe of Hand Stripping to politely remind you that you actually know about 3% of what there is to know.
I bought this expecting to pick up a few tips. Instead, it casually opened a wormhole into another dimension of hand stripping.
Whether you’re a complete beginner wondering which end of the knife to hold, or you’ve been stripping coats for years and secretly think you’ve seen it all, this book has something that’ll make you stop mid-page and mutter, “Well… I didn’t know that.”
It somehow manages to be beginner-friendly without dumbing anything down, while also diving deep enough to keep seasoned groomers glued to every page. Every chapter had me either nodding in agreement or questioning everything I thought I knew.
The scary part? It doesn’t make you feel like you’ve been doing it wrong—it makes you excited to keep learning. That’s the mark of a brilliant educational book.
So, if you’ve ever uttered the dangerous words, “I think I’ve got hand stripping sorted,” do yourself a favour and buy this book. It’ll lovingly knock you off your high horse, refill your brain, and send you straight back to the grooming table wanting to strip every terrier in sight.
A must-have for anyone serious about hand stripping—from absolute beginners right through to the “old dogs” who are about to learn some spectacular new tricks.”
Chuckie Lund, Pet and Show handstrip specialist and educator at Pimp my pet, Australia
“Completely hooked on this book!! Thank you Mia Övernäs & Carola Copland.. I just can’t bring myself to put it down 
“
Ness Dwyer,owner of Green star winning gigant schnauzer,Ireland
