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to prepare the model dogs

Theme
Styling the Model Dog to a Breed Standard.

Description of Contest
The purpose of this class is to recognize the contestant's artistic ability in creating the most accurate and precise profile according to a breed standard. All contestants must use the same model dog supplied by the show promoter from the same manufacture to create an even playing ground for all contestants.

Competition Time Frame
All contestants will be permitted 2 hours 15 minutes.

Level of Competition Skill
Levels are determined by the show promoter.
Level 1, 2 and 3 Contestants may utilize all technical skills.

Competition Dog Coat Length Qualifications
All model dogs must have the same length of coat at the beginning of the competition. The model dog can and should be brushed before the competition but must show no signs of pre trimming or shaping.

Products Allowed on the Competition Dog
Products such as sprays and chalks are limited to what is typically used or seen in the conformation show ring and are removed from the coat immediately after the competition to prevent skin and coat disorders.

• Decorative objects, such as bows, beads and glitter are not permitted.
• Objects such as pins to create erect ears or extensions for longer tails, to assist in creating a more real life model are permitted, however, they must not be visible to the eye.
• Coloring the model dog to enhance or give the illusion of a more real life model, such as a Standard Schnauzer, is permitted.
• Coloring areas on the dog to create a more real life expression on the model dog is permitted.
• Coloring must be non toxic and safe for humans to use.
• Using colors that are not natural coat colors such as blues and pinks are not permitted.
• Hair extensions of the same color range are permitted.
• Extensions may be applied before or during the competition.
• Holding sprays are allowed, for example, on the head piece of the Poodle with a tie up or with a scissored topknot to achieve the ultimate breed profile when viewed from all sides.
• Finishing sprays are allowed to enhance the overall coat texture and appearance.
• Chalking products are allowed, for example, on the headpiece of the West Highland Terrier, to achieve the ultimate breed profile and expression.
• All products, sprays, extensions, and tie-up procedures must be completed during the competition.

Preparation Requirements for the Competition Dog
The model dog should be brushed prior to the competition. Because this is a new competition and many contestants are not familiar with or have not worked previously with the "coat" on the model dogs, it is recommended to brush the dog out totally before entering the ring. To properly brush out the model dog can take up to 2 hours. It is important to brush the dog with a soft pin brush. It is normal for excessive coat to come our during the brushing, however, if creating a breed with a long coat such as a Cocker Spaniel, take care not to over brush the coat.

Judging Considerations
It is all about the contestant creating the most real life model dog when judging the model dog competition. However, because the model dog can be created to appear very real like and photos and videos are sent around the world about this innovative competition, as competitors, it is very important to remember to maintain a professional image during this unique competition. The judging panel does understand that in order to achieve the ultimate breed profile the model dog may be held in various positions by the competitor. Abusive type behavior, however, such as throwing the model dog around or very rough type handling of the model dog will be frowned upon and reflected in the judges decision.

Due to the type of material used to create the model dog, judges will not touch, comb or brush the model dogs during the judging procedures.

Dogs that have been shaped or styled before the competition begins may be
disqualified before the competition starts or may not be considered for a placement.

The judging panel will also evaluate the following:

• Degree of intricacy of the trim.
• Accuracy in the breed profile according to the breed standard when viewed from all sides and from the top of the dog.
• Balance, symmetry and the overall style are also considered.
• Quality of technical finish.

Competition Starts
All competitors will begin the competition at the same time in the ring.

The Final Presentation
Contestants must prepare their station immediately after the contest ends for the judges to overview the competition dog. The hair must be removed from the table and the dog presented to the judges before the evaluations begin.

Products such as sprays or chalks are not to be applied to the competition dog after the contest ends.

Technical skills are not allowed to be applied to the competition dog after the contest ends.

Awards
The judging panel will choose a first, second and third place winner.

Show Managers
Due to the inconsistency and quality of the model dogs, it is mandatory that the show promoter supply or make arrangements for the model dogs to be supplied to the contestants. This class may be broken down into groups such as terriers, poodles, sporting breeds or may be judged together. This class can be judged as an open class or may be judged by levels.