Healthy Dogs Start with the Right Foundation
Westies can be prone to skin issues, but we take a proactive, natural approach to raising resilient pups.
At Hurkledoon, we focus on:
Gut health: single-protein meals, probiotics, and wholefood nutrition
Skin support: minimal bathing, no harsh products, and natural oils
Balanced immunity: no overuse of pharmaceuticals like Apoquel or Cytopoint—we prefer to understand the cause, not just mask the symptoms
Minimal stress: calm routines, warm beds, and lots of love
Our dogs shine because they’re cared for deeply—and that care starts long before they’re born.
Why grooming matters: Hand stripping vs clippers
It all begins with an idea.
Grooming: Why Hand Stripping Makes All the Difference
Grooming isn’t just about keeping your Westie looking tidy—it’s a vital part of maintaining coat health and skin function. Westies have a double coat: a soft undercoat and a harsh outer coat designed to protect them from the elements. How that coat is maintained makes a big difference.
At Hurkledoon, we recommend hand stripping over clippers for one simple reason: it preserves the coat’s natural texture and function.
Hand stripping involves gently removing the dead outer hairs by hand or with a stripping knife. This encourages fresh, coarse hair to grow in, keeping the coat weather-resistant, bright white, and less prone to matting. It also supports skin health, reducing the chance of trapped hair, irritation, or blocked follicles.
Clipping, while quicker, cuts the hair bluntly and softens the outer coat over time. The coat becomes fluffier, loses its crisp texture, and can begin to hold more moisture and dirt—making it more prone to yeast infections, itchiness, and dullness. Clipped coats also tend to shed more.
While hand stripping does take more time and skill, the long-term benefits are worth it—especially for Westies prone to skin issues.
If you choose to clip, aim to do so every 6–8 weeks and brush regularly to avoid tangles and buildup. But if you can, find a groomer experienced in hand stripping or learn to do it at home gradually and gently.
Either way, regular grooming isn’t just about appearance—it’s a bonding experience, a skin check, and a chance to support your Westie’s wellbeing from nose to tail.
✂️ Grooming – Checklist
“Why Grooming Matters: Hand Stripping vs Clippers”
✅ Choose hand stripping if possible to preserve coat texture
✅ If clipping, maintain regular brushing and drying
✅ Book professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
✅ Use a slicker brush and comb for regular at-home care
✅ Check for mats behind ears, under arms, and tail base
✅ Clean ears gently and trim nails regularly
✅ Keep grooming calm, positive, and never rushed