SKC Handstripping Certification Pathway

SKC Handstripping Certification Pathway

Specialised Track for Handstripping Breeds
🎯 For Groomers Focused on Terrier Breed Standards

🐾 Breeds Covered (Exam Options):

  • West Highland White Terrier (Westie)

  • Schnauzer

  • Wire Fox Terrier

  • Jack Russell Terrier (Rough Coat)

✅ Who Is This For?

Groomers who want to specialise in handstripping techniques for terrier breeds.
Perfect for groomers aiming for competition level or SKC show-standard grooming.

SKC Class C – Handstripping Certification

💰 $4,000 | 🕐 20 Lessons
Entry-level certification for groomers with basic handstripping knowledge.

Includes:

  • Terrier coat structure & stripping pattern

  • Correct tools & techniques for harsh coats

  • Handstripping Schnauzer, WFT, JRT & Westie

  • Mock exam & real-scenario practice

  • Prep for SKC Class C exam (handstripped group)

SKC Class B – Handstripping Certification

💰 $4,000 | 🕐 20 Lessons
For groomers already certified in Class C, now refining and advancing strip technique.

Includes:

  • Advanced stripping lines & outline control

  • Detailed styling for show presentation

  • High-speed prep and tidy

  • Coat maintenance, rolling coat, & topcoats

  • Class B mock exam prep with critique

SKC Class A – Handstripping Certification

💰 $4,800 | 🕐 20 Lessons
Elite level training for competition, instructor pathway, or grooming judge prep.

Includes:

  • Mastery of terrier structure & presentation

  • Precision head styling, skirt control, finish line

  • Timed exam preparation (strict 3–3.5 hours)

  • Personal critique & advanced coat management

  • A-level grooming portfolio preparation

Why Focus on Handstripping at Pooch Academy?

🔹 Rare Skill, High Demand
Handstripping is a premium grooming technique that few groomers can do well. Mastering it makes you stand out in the industry and allows you to charge higher prices for specialty breeds.

🔹 Show-Quality Training
Our training follows SKC breed standards, ensuring you're learning correct structure, coat care, and grooming techniques used in competitions and conformation shows.

🔹 Learn Across Multiple Breeds
Get hands-on experience stripping Wire Fox Terriers, Schnauzers, Jack Russell Terriers, and Westies — each with unique coat types and styling requirements.

🔹 Better Coat Health, Better Results
Understand how handstripping preserves coat texture, colour, and skin health — an essential skill for wire-coated breeds that clipping alone can’t match.

🔹 Groomer Reputation & Trust
Offering true handstripping builds trust with breed enthusiasts and show dog owners who want authenticity and professional care for their dogs.

🔹 One-on-One Mentorship
Work directly with experienced SKC handlers and learn the small details that make a big difference — from head styling to skirt control and finish polish.

When you know how to handstrip, you're not just a groomer — you're an artist.”

– Jason Lok