Teton Competition Rules 2025
- 01
This is a pre-groomed competition, meaning all work must be completed before check-in. Competitors must deliver and set up their model dogs by Friday, May 16, at 9:00 AM. Check-in begins at 8:30 AM, and no late entries will be accepted.
Model Dog Requirements
Model dogs must be purchased before the show—we will not have any available for sale on-site.
Dogs must arrive fully groomed and ready for judging in one of the following categories:
Purebred Category: Styled to resemble an official breed standard trim. Color and dye are allowed.
Freestyle Category: Styled in a creative trim (Asian fusion, teddy bear, spiral, etc.), but coloring is limited to no more than 10% of the dog.
Creative Category: Additional accessories and adornments are allowed, but must cover no more than 50% of the dog. No limit on dyes or colors.
Creative Plus Category: Transform the model dog into something other than a dog—no restrictions on color, accessories, or adornments.
Entry & Awards
Competitors may enter as many model dogs as they like in each category.
Entry fee: $35 per model dog.
The Model Dog Awards Ceremony will be held Friday, May 16, from 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM.
All competitors must be present at the contest ring by 10:00 AM for final judging.
Judge: Erin Hulland Sponsor: (To be announced)
Get ready to showcase your artistry and push the boundaries of creative grooming!
- 02
The Sporting & Wire competition is divided into two separate categories, both running at the same time but judged separately. Competitors must demonstrate precision, technique, and adherence to breed standard grooming for either sporting breeds or wire-coated breeds.
Competition Details:
Check-in: 8:30 AM
Start Time: 9:00 AM
End Time: 11:00 AM
Judging & Awards: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Special Note:
⚠ Electricity will NOT be provided in the contest ring. Competitors must bring and use cordless clippers where applicable.
Sporting Breed Competition
This category is for spaniels and setters that require hand-stripping, scissoring, and carding techniques to achieve a conformation show ring look. Competitors must focus on breed profile, symmetry, and precision grooming.
Sporting Breed Time Limits by Breed:
Breed - Time Allowed
Clumber Spaniel - 2:00
American Cocker Spaniel - 2:00
English Cocker Spaniel - 2:00
English Setter - 2:00
English Springer Spaniel - 2:00
Field Spaniel - 2:00
Gordon Setter - 2:00
Irish Red and White Setter - 2:00
Irish Setter - 2:00
Sussex Spaniel - 2:00
Welsh Springer Spaniel - 2:00
Sporting Breed Styling Rules:
✔ Dogs must be groomed according to breed standard. Judges will assess coat condition and adequate coat growth before the competition.
✔ All grooming must be completed within the competition time frame, except for the following:
Sanitary trims and pad shaving may be done before the competition starts.
Nails may be trimmed, and ears cleaned before check-in.
✔ Sporting coats must be carded and/or hand-stripped. Clippers are only allowed where appropriate for conformation show presentation.
✔ Finishing sprays and chalk products may be used before and during the competition but not after time is called.
✔ Reshaping with water or product application is not permitted after time ends.
Wire-Coated Breed Competition
This category is for purebred wire-coated dogs that require hand-stripping. Competitors must maintain coat texture, proper pattern, and balance, as seen in the conformation show ring. Clippers are allowed only where appropriate for breed standard trims.
Wire-Coated Breed Time Limits by Breed:
Breed - Time Allowed
Affenpinscher - 1:45
Airedale Terrier - 2:15
Australian Terrier - 2:00
Border Terrier - 1:45
Brussels Griffon - 1:45
Cairn Terrier - 2:00
Dachshund Wire (Mini) - 1:45
Dachshund Wire (Standard) - 2:00
Dandie Dinmont - 2:00
Giant Schnauzer - 2:15
Irish Terrier - 2:00
Lakeland Terrier - 2:00
Miniature Schnauzer - 2:00
Norfolk Terrier - 1:45
Norwich Terrier - 1:45
Scottish Terrier - 2:00
Sealyham Terrier - 2:00
Standard Schnauzer - 2:00
Welsh Terrier - 2:00
West Highland White Terrier - 2:00
Wire Fox Terrier - 2:00
Wire-Coated Breed Styling Rules:
✔ Dogs must be groomed according to breed standard. Judges will assess coat condition and adequate coat growth before the competition.
✔ All grooming must be completed within the competition time frame, except for the following:
Sanitary trims and pad shaving may be done before the competition starts.
Nails may be trimmed, and ears cleaned before check-in.
✔ Wire coats must be hand-stripped. Clippers are allowed only where conformation standards permit.
✔ Finishing sprays and chalk products may be used before and during the competition but not after time is called.
✔ Reshaping with water or product application is not permitted after time ends.
Judge: Mackensie Murphy
This competition is designed for groomers who want to refine their breed-standard skills and showcase their expertise in hand-stripping, carding, and scissoring techniques. Step into the ring and prove your mastery in sporting and wire-coated breeds!
- 03
The Salon Freestyle competition allows groomers to showcase their creativity, technical skill, and mastery of balance and symmetry by transforming dogs into unique pet trims or alternative breed styles. This is the perfect event for groomers who specialize in pet styling and want to express their artistic talent beyond breed standards.
Competition Details:
Check-in: 1:30 PM
Start Time: 2:00 PM
End Time: 4:00 PM
Judging & Awards: 4:00 - 4:30 PM
Special Note:
⚠ Electricity will NOT be provided in the contest ring. Competitors must bring and use cordless clippers where applicable.
Contest Time Limits by Size:
Dog Size - Time Allowed
17″ and Under - 1:45
Over 17″ - 2:00
Divisions:
Entry
Intermediate
Open
(See WPA General Contest Rules for more details about divisions.)
Acceptable Breeds & Styling Guidelines:
✔ Any mixed breed (e.g., Doodles, Cock-a-Poos) or any AKC purebred dog styled in a non-breed-standard trim is permitted.
✔ Examples of acceptable styles:
Poodle (no shaved feet or face) in a Bedlington trim
Poodle (no shaved feet or face) in a spiral trim
Shih Tzu in a panda trim
Asian Fusion styles
Poodlington trims
Custom pet trims on purebreds or mixed breeds
✔ Minimal accessories are allowed:
Up to two bows for tie-ups
Small amounts of temporary color (chalk, blow pens, or markers) covering no more than 10% of the dog
✔ Show topknots may be pre-banded, including hair extensions and curlers, but spray-up products are not allowed before the competition begins.
Final Judging Criteria:
The judge will evaluate:
✔ Balance, symmetry, uniformity, and mastery of the trim
✔ Proper shaping according to the dog’s body type, structure, and coat
✔ Scissored dogs – Should have a plush, smooth finish with no scissor marks, unevenness, or unintended protrusions
✔ Hand-stripped and carded dogs – Should maintain proper technique for a smooth and natural appearance
✔ Clipper work – Should be smooth and irritation-free
✔ Difficulty level – Judged based on the amount of coat removed, coat type, texture, quality, and complexity of the style
✔ Color usage – If applied, color will not be considered in judging
✔ Accessories – Decorative collars or accessories are allowed but must be removed if requested by the judge during final judging
This competition is a celebration of creative pet styling, where groomers can step outside traditional breed trims and bring their artistic vision to life while demonstrating expert technique.
Judge:Mackensie Murphy
- 04
This competition showcases breed-standard grooming as seen in the conformation show ring. Competitors must demonstrate their ability to groom according to breed profile standards, highlighting structure, balance, and precision.
Competition Details:
Check-in: 7:00 AM
Start Time: 7:30 AM
End Time: 9:30 - 9:45 AM
Judging & Awards: 9:30 - 10:15 AM
Special Note:
⚠ Electricity will NOT be provided in the contest ring. Competitors must bring and use cordless clippers where applicable.
Divisions:
Entry
Intermediate
Time Limits by Breed:
Breed - Time Allowed Bedlington Terrier - 2:00
Bichon Frise - 2:00
Black Russian Terrier - 2:15
Bouvier des Flandres - 2:15
Irish Water Spaniel - 2:00
Kerry Blue Terrier - 2:00
Portuguese Water Dog - 2:00
Soft Coated Wheaten - 2:00
Acceptable Styling Guidelines:
✔ All grooming must be completed within the competition time frame, except for the following:
Sanitary trims and pad shaving may be done before the competition starts.
Nails may be trimmed, and ears cleaned before check-in.
✔ Dogs must be groomed to their breed standard. Judges will assess coat condition and adequate coat growth based on breed requirements.
✔ Finishing sprays are allowed after time is called, but reshaping with water or additional product is not permitted.
✔ Chalk products may be used before and during the competition, but not after time is called.
✔ All Other Purebreds must be presented in a breed-standard trim, following AKC or breed-specific guidelines for conformation.
Judge: Mackensie Murphy
Prepare to showcase precision, technique, and breed-standard excellence in this elite competition! 🏆✨
- 05
This competition highlights precision, breed-standard grooming, and artistic expression in purebred poodles of all sizes. Competitors must demonstrate mastery in scissoring, shaping, and breed profile adherence, whether in a conformation show trim or an elegant pet trim.
Competition Details:
Check-in & Pre-Judging (Hand Out Times): 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Start Time: 12:00 PM
End Time: 2:15 PM
Judging & Awards: 2:15 PM - 3:00 PM
Special Note:
⚠ Electricity will NOT be provided in the contest ring. Competitors must bring and use cordless clippers where applicable.
Divisions:
Entry
Intermediate
Open
Time Limits by Size:
Poodle Size - Time Allowed
11″ and under - 1:30
Over 11” up to and including 17” - 1:45
Over 17” up to and including 23” - 2:00
Over 23” - 2:15
Acceptable Breeds & Styling Rules:
✔ All sizes of purebred Poodles are eligible, provided they are natural coat colors.
✔ Dogs must be groomed to the breed profile as presented in the conformation show ring or a pet trim that respects breed standards.
✔ Pre-grooming exceptions:
Sanitary trims and pad shaving may be done before the competition starts.
Nails may be trimmed, and ears cleaned before check-in.
✔ Finishing sprays may be used after the competition, but reshaping with water or product application is not permitted.
✔ Chalk products may be used before and during the competition, but not after time is called.
Poodle-Specific Styling Guidelines:
✔ All show and pet poodle trims are acceptable, as long as they maintain the breed profile.
✔ Feet must be shaved—this may be done before the competition, but no extra time will be given if not completed prior.
✔ Face must be shaved during the competition time frame—a small mustache or goatee is permitted, but scissored faces like a Bichon-style face are prohibited.
✔ Show topknots may be pre-banded (including hair extensions) before the class starts, but spray-up products are not allowed before the competition begins.
Judge: Mackensie Murphy
This competition is the perfect opportunity to showcase scissoring expertise, breed-standard execution, and refined styling skills. Get ready to impress the judges with precise lines, elegant shaping, and flawless finishing!
- 06
The Abstract Runway Competition is a showcase of precision, artistry, and creative grooming, where competitors must create a visually stunning, abstract design on their dog. The focus is on clean execution, balance, and overall appeal, rather than themed designs or character-based creative grooming.
Competition Details:
Check-in: 6:30 PM
Start Time (Presentations & Judging): 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Special Note:
⚠ Electricity will NOT be provided in the contest ring. Competitors must bring and use cordless clippers where applicable.
Competition Rules & Requirements:
✔ This is a pre-groomed competition. All styling and creative work must be completed before check-in. ✔ Visual or written instructions are prohibited in the contest ring. Competitors must rely on their technical skill and artistic execution. ✔ Color may be used on the entry, but it will not be considered in judging. The emphasis is on design placement, execution, and balance rather than color application.
Judging Criteria:
✔ Design Placement – How well is the design positioned on the dog’s body to enhance the overall look? ✔ Execution & Precision – Clean clipper work, symmetry, and sharp line work. ✔ Artistry & Flow – How well does the design create a visually engaging abstract look? ✔ Overall Balance & Appeal – The design should complement the dog’s structure and be aesthetically pleasing.
Judge: Blake Hernandez
This competition is about technical expertise and artistic vision, challenging groomers to push their clipper work, symmetry, and design execution to the next level. Step into the ring and let your creativity shine!
- 07
The Extreme Creative Pre-Groomed Competition is an exhibition of colorfully staged, uniquely presented, and exquisitely groomed dogs and cats, incorporating props, themes, and music to bring creative designs to life. Competitors must showcase their ability to blend expert grooming techniques with artistic vision for a truly show-stopping presentation.
Competition Details:
Check-in: 3:30 PM
Start Time (Presentations): 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Judging & Awards: 5:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Divisions:
Entry – Open to anyone who has not received three (3) first placements in any live Creative Contest at the Entry Level.
Open – Open to all competitors.
Competition Rules & Requirements:
✔ This is a pre-groomed competition. All styling and creative work must be completed before check-in. ✔ Any purebred or mixed breed dog or cat can be used. ✔ Electricity will NOT be available in the contest ring, but electrical access will be provided in the spa/bathing area. ✔ Competitors are permitted a 5’x5’ space for prop setup. Any setup exceeding this space will result in disqualification. ✔ All products used must be safe and non-toxic to both the pet and the stylist. ✔ Glue must be water-soluble. Placement of large or heavy objects on the pet is prohibited. ✔ Each competitor MUST title their design. ✔ Music may be used during the presentation. Competitors are responsible for their own music. DVD presentations are NOT permitted. ✔ Presentation time is limited to 2 minutes.
Judging Criteria:
✔ Originality & Creativity – How unique and imaginative is the design and theme? ✔ Quality of Styling Techniques – Precision in clipping, scissoring, and design execution. ✔ Sharpness of Clipper Lines – Clean, defined lines that enhance the overall theme. ✔ Blending & Sharpness of Color – Smooth, professional application of dyes and color blending. ✔ Quality of Scissor Finish – Smooth, polished final look with refined scissoring. ✔ Harmony of Props & Decorations – How well do the props and theme integrate into the final presentation?
This competition is a celebration of artistic expression and technical expertise, pushing the boundaries of creative grooming. Whether you’re a seasoned creative groomer or stepping into the ring for the first time, this is your chance to turn your pet into a masterpiece!
Judge: Mackensie Murphy
- 08
The Everyday Salon Style Competition focuses on the practical, real-world skills of professional groomers. This competition highlights client-ready grooming techniques used in everyday salons, prioritizing clean, polished, and maintainable trims that pet owners can easily manage.
Competition Details:
Check-in: 11:30 AM
Start Time: 12:00 PM
End Time: 2:00 PM
Judging & Awards: 2:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Special Note:
⚠ Electricity will NOT be provided in the contest ring. Competitors must bring and use cordless clippers where applicable.
Divisions:
Entry
Intermediate
Open
Time Limits by Dog Size:
Dog Size - Time Allowed 17″ and under - 1:45
Over 17″ - 2:00
Grooming Style Requirements:
✔ Allowed Styles:
Teddy bear cuts, classic pet trims, and traditional salon styles
Client-ready, polished grooms that are practical for pet owners
Up to two accessories (bows, bandanas, or necklaces) for flair
❌ Not Allowed:
Extreme styles like Asian Fusion or sculpted designs
Excessive styling beyond typical salon grooms
Use of color or designs
✔ Trim Guidelines:
The body cannot be shorter than a #4 blade or 3/8” guard comb length, except for patterns like Schnauzers or Poodles (face and feet can be shaved for Poodles).
Legs can be up to two lengths longer than the body.
Styles should be simple, maintainable, and appropriate for a 6-7 week grooming schedule.
Judging Criteria:
✔ Coat Prep & Pre-Grooming: Coat should be clean, dry, brushed-out, and free of tangles or mats. Nails, ears, and sanitary areas should be properly trimmed. ✔ Execution of Trim: Even, balanced cuts with smooth transitions. Adhere to length rules. ✔ Overall Presentation: A clean, polished finish with no stray hairs or unfinished areas. ✔ Compassionate Handling: Gentle, professional interaction with the dog—no rough handling. Keeping the dog comfortable and stress-free is key. ✔ Final Look & Client Appeal: The groom should be practical and something a pet owner would love—easy to maintain between salon visits.
Competition Rules:
✔ Dogs must arrive clean and dry—no damp or matted coats. ✔ No pre-clipping, except for nails, pads, and sanitary areas. ✔ Stick to length guidelines—anything over two lengths longer on the legs will result in deductions. ✔ Calm, professional handling is required—rough handling will result in deductions or disqualification.
Why Compete?
This competition recognizes skilled, compassionate groomers who specialize in everyday salon work. It’s not about extreme or artistic styles—it’s about functional, polished, and practical grooming that keeps dogs and their owners happy!
Judge: Blake Hernandez
Step into the ring and showcase the skills that make you a trusted, talented salon groomer!
- 09
The Best in Show competition is the grand finale of the Teton Grooming Expo, bringing together the top stylists from each grooming category to determine the ultimate Best Pet Stylist in Show. This is where the best of the best showcase their precision, technical skill, and breed-standard execution for the highest honor of the event.
Competition Details:
Check-in: Be ready with your dog in the contest ring by 4:00 PM
Judging & Awards: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Eligibility:
✔ Only the 1st Place winners from the following competition groups are eligible to compete:
Wire Coats
Sporting Breeds
Other Purebreds (AOPB)
Poodles
✔ Group 1st Place winners must remain in the contest ring with their dog for final evaluation by the Best in Show judge. ✔ Competitors must return with their entry for the Best Pet Stylist in Show Awards Presentation at the scheduled time.
Judging Criteria:
✔ Technical Execution – Precision in grooming techniques, including clipper work, scissoring, and hand-stripping where applicable. ✔ Adherence to Breed Standard – Dogs must be presented in the correct breed profile, maintaining proper structure, balance, and coat preparation. ✔ Coat Quality & Finish – Grooming should be smooth, polished, and properly blended, with no scissor marks or uneven transitions. ✔ Overall Presentation & Handling – The stylist's ability to present their dog with confidence, professionalism, and poise.
Judge: Mackensie Murphy
This is the culmination of elite grooming talent, where the top competitors from each category vie for the title of Best in Show. Who will take home the honor? Step into the ring and show the world your expertise!