Clipper Classic

Contest Time Limit: 2:00 Hours

Divisions: Open to all competitors at any level

Acceptable Breeds: Any purebred or mixed breed. All dogs must have a minimum of 8 weeks coat growth.

General Rules: This is a Solo Clipper class. This class will challenge groomers to style any breed using only clippers.  Feel free to follow the breed standard or create a unique style to accentuate the dog’s conformation. The hair may be lifted with combs or fingers and any kind of clippers (with or without snap-on combs) is allowed. Scissors are not allowed during this competition, with the exception of the final 10 minutes for final touches. The use of scissors at any time during the competition other than the designated “Scissors Up” period will be cause for disqualification. All clipper work must be done in the ring during the allotted competition time. There is no pre-clipping allowed in this class. Pads and sanitary areas are to be done prior to the contest start time. For Poodles, clean feet and faces must be done during the competition time frame. All dogs must have a minimum of 6 weeks coat growth.

Final Judging: Entries will be judged based upon adherence to the rules. Groomers should strive to complete a balanced groom that highlights their clipper work. Judge will evaluate the following: Balance, symmetry, uniformity and style of the trim. The ability of the groomer to execute the style chosen which suits the dog according to his/her body type, structure and coat. Clipper work should be smooth and free of irritation. Difficulty will be assessed with regard to the amount of coat removed, difficulty of the coat type, texture, quality and quantity.

Salon Freestyle

Contest Time Limit: 17” and under – 1:45 (1 hour, 45 minutes)
Over 17” – 2:00 (2 hours)

Divisions: Open, Entry

Acceptable Breeds/Styles:  Any dog of mixed parentage, such as a Doodle or a Shih-Poo.. Any AKC purebred dog distinctly NOT styled to breed standard. Examples of acceptable styles include, but are not limited to: Poodle (no shaved feet or face) in a Kerry trim, Poodle (no shaved feet or face) in a spiral trim, Shih Tzu in a panda trim, trending styles such as Asian Fusion, the Poodlington, unique pet styles, and breed trims created on alternative mixed or any AKC purebred dogs. May use multiple bows for tie-ups, small amounts of color (10%  or less on dog) may be added with chalk, blow pens or markers. Show topknots may be pre-banded, including hair extensions and curlers prior to the start of the class, however spray up products are prohibited prior to the start of the class.

Final Judging:  Judge will evaluate the following: balance, symmetry, finish and mastery of the trim. Contestants will be evaluated on the mastery of above criteria while showcasing each dog according to his/her body type, structure and coat type. For scissored dogs, this evaluation includes creating a plush overall appearance without scissor marks, for hand-stripped and/or carded dogs, proper technique to achieve a natural appearance, and all clipper work should be smooth and free of  marks and irritation. Difficulty will be evaluated with regard to the amount of coat removed, coat type, texture, quality and quantity, and the overall design or style chosen and its suitability for the dog. If color is used on your entry, the color will not be considered in judging. Accessories, such as decorative collars are allowed, however must be removed per the judge’s request during final judging.

Creative Tag Team Challenge

Each competitor must register for the Creative Tag Team Challenge. The purchase price is per competitor not per team

Competitors need to register as the highest level of each of the competitors (1st Timers have not competed in a creative competition, Just For Fun one or both competitors have entered a creative competition in the past)

The Creative Tag Team challenge is an exhibition of colorfully staged, uniquely presented, and exquisitely groomed dogs using props and music for the presentation performed by two groomers.

Contest Time Limit: 3 hours

Divisions: Entry: anyone who has not placed 1st in any live Creative Contest.
Open:  open to all competitors

Acceptable Breeds/Styles: Any purebred or mixed breed dog can be used. Two groomers will work simultaneously on one dog. For Poodle styles, feet may be shaved prior to competition start time. NO extra time will be permitted if not completed prior to class start. Face must be shaved during competition time frame. Show topknots may be pre-banded, including hair extensions prior to the start of the class, spray up products are prohibited prior to the start of the class.

Competitors are permitted a designated 5’x5’ space for prop set up. Exhibits exceeding 5’x5’ will be disqualified.

All products used must be safe and non-toxic to the pet and stylist; Glue must be water-soluble.

Placement of large and/or heavy objects on the pet is prohibited.

50% of the dog needs to be colored.

Competitors must title their designs.

If desired, music may be used during the presentation. Music used for presentation is the sole responsibility of the competitor.

DVD presentations are not permitted.

A maximum of 2 minutes is permitted per presentation.

Accessories: May use accessories for tie-ups if they are relevant or necessary to the style or theme of the groom- however they should not detract from the overall impression of the groom itself.

Final Judging: Originality and creativity of the design and theme. Quality of styling techniques. Sharpness and precision of clipper lines. Sharpness and/or blending of color. Quality of scissor finish. Quality and harmony of props and decorations in the final presentation. The Judges will evaluate the balance, symmetry, uniformity, and style of the trim. The ability of the groomers to execute correct profile for the dog chosen, according to his/her breed, body type, structure, and coat. For scissored dogs, the execution of a plush overall appearance without scissor marks, unevenness, or unintended protruding coat. For hand stripped and/or carded dogs, proper technique to achieve smooth and natural appearance. Clipper work should be smooth and free of irritation. The difficulty regarding the amount of coat removed difficulty of the coat type, texture, quality and quantity. Special considerations will be given for difficulty, combined teamwork, and the ability for the team to work cohesively together.