SHOWS AND COMPETITIONS
A Quick Rundown on How to Join a Grooming Competition
Choosing your Breed
Choosing the right breed can be a critical decision when entering the competition ring!
Make sure you are comfortable and confident with the dog you choose. The ankc.org.au and FCI International Shows (found on ankc.org.au) are great references when helping develop sound grooming skills in the competition ring.
Spending time with top handlers and breeders will also help train your eye.
There are a number of books on the market as well as DVDs. However, nothing beats spending time with someone who can physically help you train.
There are several groomers, breeders and handlers who will assist you.
There are many ways you can enter the grooming ring. Working in a ‘Salon Freestyle’ competition can be fun and rewarding. This section calls for a dog to be transformed into another breed. Example; a Poodle groomed in a Schnauzer clip. Asian Fusion styles are also very popular, as is Creative grooming.
Once you have decided on your breed, it is time to find a dog that will enjoy the experience. Temperament, sound confirmation and good coat quality are all key factors in choosing the right dog.
The main thing here is to really enjoy what you do.
Most competitors highly value having an experienced professional look over their work. We are always learning, and competition grooming gives you the chance to showcase your skills, develop new skills and lift the standard of the industry.
Prep your Dog Months Before
Preparation ranks as the most important skill when it comes to Competition Grooming. Preparation should take up to 6 months or more. Things to consider are length of time it takes for a coat to grow. Will the bitch be in ‘season’? Will the owner give you the access you need to work on the dog?
Begin by cementing the pattern on your dog. Shampoo and condition the coat regularly.
If using a client’s dog have a plan and schedule of all the necessary appointments to give the owners. Allow yourself lots of time to grow out the coat to the length you desire.
Time yourself during practice/prep sessions to understand how long you will need for each part of the groom.
Ask for critiques by valued groomers in the industry. Send photos of finished grooms or angluations to top breeders and handlers.
Below are links to a couple of tutorials where competition prep is the main aim.
Jess and Bowie, Labradoodle.
Alicia and Apollo, Bichon X Cavoodle
Entering the Competition
Make sure to read all the rules for the competition you are entering. Competition rules differ depending on promoters. Enter your classes and again, read the rules to know which class you should be entering. Take note of what can and can’t be groomed on your dog before the comp, for example, clipping Poodle face, feet and tail may be allowed.
Encourage friends to join you! Competing with you friends can encourage learning and growth. You will have someone to share the experience with.
Competition Day
Arrive at least an hour before to get set up. This will help calm your nerves too!
Allow yourself enough time to prep your dog on the day, so generally get an early start and do as much prep as your breed rules allow.
You will be judged on everything so make sure your dog is pristine, clean and knot free. Make a checklist of equipment prior to competition day so you can run through it and make sure you have everything you need. You must make sure your scissors are sharp and oiled and all equipment is working properly. It is a good idea to have back up equipment if anything fails you.
Ensure your dog is well rested and hydrated before the competition. Dogs can fatigue quickly while under hot lights.
Leave your nerves at the door! You have done the preparation, you know your stuff, it’s time to relax and enjoy the experience. Not everyone will receive a medal, but everyone is there to learn.
Pre-judging
Stacking: Stack your dog squarely on the table. The only thing to be on the table is your dog and your comb.
The judges may ask you if there is anything they need to know about your dog, things like is the dog missing coat? Is the dog compromised in some way?
Once pre-judging is complete, arrange all of your grooming equipment and prepare to start.
Competing
The 2 most important things about competition grooming is to have fun and to learn.
Stick to the plan you created for yourself and focus only on your dog and the task at hand.
Have all you need at hand, water for yourself and treats if you need them. All your equipment and a mat to stand on.
When the time starts, judges will be observing what techniques you are using, your handling of the dog, as well as the difficulty of the groom.
Sally Break
This is a a quick toilet break for you and your dog.
Use this down time as a point of reflection on what you have done and how you could improve your work.
Once back at your table, fluff your dog up and be ready to start grooming when directed. Judges will announce the remaining time you have to complete the groom.
Scissors Down!
Check the rules. Some competitions allow you to brush your dog after scissors down.
Clear the table. Place a tablecloth on the grooming table. Choose the colour wisely. This will enhance your work and the dogs colour. .
The only equipment that should be on your table at this point is your comb. Try to stay relaxed. Both judges and dogs will sense the nervousness.
When the judges come to your table stack your dog so the judge can see your dog’s profile. The judges will use your comb and go through your dog. Once they have finished keep your dog stacked on your table. .
Whatever the result, celebrate yourself and the dog! Learning and competing should be fun. Once the comp is over, use the time to network with fellow groomers and say hello to the judges. They may just have a few key points for you.
Tay and Lolly at the 2018 Melbourne Pet Grooming Championships
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