Master Show Rules

GROOMING CHAMPIONSHIP RULES

The Master Show International Championship is open to professional groomers, employees and people working in the grooming industry.

Competitors who are still in training may also enter the Beginners Classes. The Championship includes official categories regulated by EGA and special Master Show categories. For all EGA categories, the official European Grooming Association Rules always take priority. The Master Show rules complete the EGA rules without changing their fundamental principles.

1. STRIPPING CLASS — OPEN & CHAMPION

The Stripping Class is an official EGA category and is divided into Open Class and Champion Class, according to the entry requirements established by the EGA Rules. Breeds whose coats are traditionally groomed by stripping are allowed, such as Fox Terrier, Lakeland Terrier, Scottish Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, Sealyham Terrier, Welsh Terrier, Schnauzer, Airedale Terrier and other breeds suitable for this technique. The dog must have enough coat so that the work done during the competition produces a clearly visible transformation. Rolling coats are allowed, provided that enough work is done in the ring to show a real difference between the dog’s condition before and after grooming. The work must respect the breed standard, the dog’s structure, and the quality and texture of the coat. The hair must be removed following its natural direction of growth, without causing pain, irritation, bare areas or clearly visible pink skin. Stripping knives and the tools normally used for this technique are allowed. A carding tool may be used to remove the undercoat only after hand stripping has been performed. Chalk in powder, block, spray or cream form is allowed. However, the product must not prevent a comb from passing through the coat or leave residue on the judge’s hands. Clippers may only be used in the areas allowed by the EGA Rules: on the Scottish Terrier, on the chest, head and ears; on the West Highland White Terrier, on the chest and ears; on the Schnauzer, on the chest, head, inside of the back legs and ears. Excessive use of scissors instead of the correct stripping technique will be penalised. The judges will evaluate the quality of the stripping, respect for the breed standard, coat texture and natural appearance, overall balance, symmetry, finishing, breed expression, the transformation achieved and the competitor’s ability to enhance the dog’s best qualities.

EGA competition times: without the use of clippers, small and medium dogs: 2 hours 30 minutes; large dogs: 3 hours. When the use of clippers is allowed, small dogs: 2 hours; medium dogs: 2 hours 15 minutes; large dogs: 2 hours 30 minutes.

2. SPANIELS CLASS — OPEN & CHAMPION

The Spaniels Class is an official EGA category, divided into Open Class and Champion Class. Setters, American Cockers, English Cockers, Springer Spaniels and other breeds belonging to the category established by the EGA Rules are allowed. The dog must be prepared and groomed according to its breed standard, respecting breed type, structure, proportions, expression and the natural appearance of the coat. Stripping knives and techniques appropriate for the coat are allowed. Toothed scissors and thinning shears are allowed, but their use must not create an artificial result: all areas where coat has been reduced must blend naturally with the rest of the coat. For Cockers and Setters, clippers may only be used in the areas allowed by EGA: chest and ears. The dog must have enough coat to allow a clearly visible transformation during the competition. The judges will evaluate respect for the breed standard, the natural appearance of the result, the quality of the transitions, balance, symmetry, finishing, technical quality and the competitor’s ability to enhance the dog’s structure without creating an artificial effect.

EGA competition times: 2 hours 30 minutes.

3. OTHER PURE BREEDS CLASS — OPEN & CHAMPION

The Other Pure Breeds Class is an official EGA category and is divided into Open Class and Champion Class. It includes pure breeds mainly groomed with scissors and not included in the Stripping, Spaniels or Poodles categories, such as Bichon Frisé, Bedlington Terrier, Kerry Blue Terrier, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Black Russian Terrier, Bouvier and other suitable breeds included in the rules. The dog must be presented washed, completely free of knots, properly dried and prepared. The coat must be long enough to allow the competitor to clearly demonstrate their technical ability and achieve a noticeable transformation. The trim must respect the breed standard. The competitor must create a correct, balanced and proportionate silhouette, enhancing the dog’s best qualities and, through grooming technique, trying to compensate for any faults. Straight scissors, curved scissors, toothed scissors and tools appropriate for the coat type are allowed. Clipper guide combs are not allowed. The final result must be possible to check by passing a comb through the coat. Excessive use of products that prevents the judge from properly checking the coat may be penalised. The judges will evaluate the breed standard, difficulty of the work, technique, scissor precision, balance, symmetry, quality of the lines, blending, finishing, transformation and overall presentation.

EGA competition times: Bichon Frisé and Bedlington Terrier: 2 hours; Kerry Blue Terrier, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Black Russian Terrier and Bouvier: 2 hours 30 minutes.

4. TOY–MINIATURE–MEDIUM POODLE CLASS — OPEN & CHAMPION

This is an official EGA category, divided into Open Class and Champion Class. The dog must be washed, completely free of knots and properly dried. The coat must be sufficiently grown to allow a clearly visible transformation. The face and feet must be shaved before the beginning of the competition. Only trims recognised by the breed standard are allowed. The Modified Continental Clip is allowed, provided that it is clearly derived from the Continental Clip, maintains the characteristic Poodle silhouette and does not conflict with the essential requirements of the breed standard. Clipper guide combs are not allowed and colouring is not allowed. For Poodles with a top knot, an additional 15 minutes are allowed for the spray-up. During this phase, the competitor may ask one person from outside the ring for help, exclusively to hold the dog. The judges will evaluate proportions, balance, symmetry, quality and precision of the scissor work, correct clipper work on the face, feet and other areas required by the trim, cleanliness, refinement, finishing, expression and respect for the breed standard.

EGA competition times: up to 35 cm: 2 hours; from 35 to 45 cm: 2 hours 15 minutes; plus, when applicable, an additional 15 minutes for the top knot spray-up.

5. STANDARD POODLE CLASS — OPEN & CHAMPION

The same rules as the Toy–Miniature–Medium Poodle Class apply. The category is separated to allow a fairer evaluation between dogs with very different sizes and amounts of coat. The dog must be prepared according to EGA rules, a trim recognised by the breed standard must be performed, and colouring and clipper guide combs are not allowed. The judges will evaluate the breed standard, proportions, construction of the silhouette, balance, symmetry, quality of the scissor work, precision of the clipper work, cleanliness, finishing and overall expression.

EGA competition times: 2 hours 30 minutes, plus, when applicable, an additional 15 minutes for the top knot spray-up

6. BEGINNERS STANDARD CLASS

This is the EGA class for competitors with no more than two years of experience. For the calculation of experience, the first practical experience in grooming or the beginning of grooming training is considered. Experience gained in dog shows is also included. The competitor may compete as a Beginner for 12 months of competitions, even if they win. In the second year, the competitor must move to the Intermediate Class even if they have not won. Once a competitor moves to the Intermediate Class, they cannot return to the Beginners Class, even with a different breed or grooming technique. Breeds and techniques allowed by the rules may be used. The dog must be groomed according to its breed standard and with a technique appropriate for its coat type. All breeds and techniques are judged together in the same class. The judges will take into consideration the level of experience required for this category, but will still evaluate technique, transformation, cleanliness, balance, symmetry, respect for the breed standard, finishing and final presentation. The Beginners Standard Class does not compete for Best in Show.

EGA competition times: 2 hours 30 minutes.

7. INTERMEDIATE CLASS

The Intermediate Class is an EGA category for competitors who have passed the Beginners level and are not yet in the Open Class. The competitor may compete in the Intermediate Class for 12 months of competitions, even if they win. At the end of this period, they must move to the Open Class. A competitor who has already competed in the Open Class cannot later enter the Intermediate Class, even with a different breed or grooming technique. All breeds and techniques allowed by EGA are accepted. The dog must be groomed according to its breed standard and using techniques appropriate for its coat. The judges will evaluate transformation, technical difficulty, precision, breed standard, balance, symmetry, finishing, overall quality and presentation of the dog. The Intermediate Class does not compete for Best in Show.

EGA competition times: 2 hours 30 minutes

SPECIAL MASTER SHOW CATEGORIES

8. COMMERCIAL PURE BREEDS CLASS

This class is exclusively for purebred dogs presented with a commercial grooming style, designed to represent professional salon work and not necessarily show grooming. A breed traditionally groomed by stripping may be clipped or scissored; a long-haired breed may be shortened; clippers, scissors and mixed techniques may be used, provided that they are appropriate for the coat and respect the dog’s welfare. The objective is to achieve a clearly visible transformation and a result that is technically correct, harmonious, practical, clean and suitable for real salon work. The judges will evaluate technical quality, transformation, suitability of the trim for the individual dog, balance, symmetry, clean lines, blending and finishing.

Colouring is not allowed and the class does not compete for Best in Show.

Competition times: 1 hour 30 minutes; large dogs: 2 hours.

9. COMMERCIAL DOODLES, CROSSBREEDS & MISCELLANEOUS CLASS

This class is for Doodles, crossbreeds, mixed-breed dogs and dogs that do not belong to the traditional purebred categories. As there is not necessarily a breed standard to reproduce, the competitor must demonstrate the ability to correctly interpret the individual dog, choosing shapes, lengths and proportions suitable for its structure, coat and type. Clippers, straight scissors, curved scissors, toothed scissors and combined techniques are allowed. The work must be substantial enough to allow the judges to evaluate a real transformation. The result must be harmonious, clean, balanced, technically correct and suitable for practical use in a grooming salon. The judges will particularly evaluate the choice of style for the individual dog, transformation, technique, difficulty of the work, symmetry, balance, quality of the blending, cleanliness and finishing. Colouring is not allowed and the class does not compete for Best in Show.

Competition time: small and medium dogs: 1 hour 30 minutes; large dogs: 2 hours.

10. COMMERCIAL BEGINNERS CLASS

The Commercial Beginners Class is for competitors with a maximum of 5 years of experience, calculated according to the criteria established for Beginners. This class was created to allow new groomers to enter a competition with a type of grooming that is closer to normal professional salon work. Purebred dogs groomed in a non-standard style, Doodles, crossbreeds and mixed-breed dogs are allowed. A show trim must not be performed. Instead, the competitor must demonstrate the ability to choose and perform a commercial trim suitable for the dog, its coat and its structure.

Techniques appropriate for the individual dog are allowed. The transformation must be clearly visible, and the final result must be clean, balanced, harmonious and technically correct.

Competition time: 2 hours 30 minutes.

11. ASIAN STYLE BEGINNERS CLASS

This class is for competitors who meet the Master Show requirements for the Beginners level, with a maximum of 5 years of experience. Purebred dogs, Doodles, crossbreeds and mixed-breed dogs are allowed. Asian Style is a creative grooming technique that was born and developed mainly in countries such as Korea, Japan, Thailand, China, Taiwan and Malaysia, and later became popular around the world. The objective is to enhance the dog’s young and attractive appearance, creating a puppy, teddy bear or cartoon effect through the trim, with original and personalised shapes. 3D shapes, including asymmetrical shapes, special leg shapes such as the “elephant-leg” effect, and details created with the coat, such as braids and ponytails, are allowed. However, the main characteristic of Asian Style must come from creativity and the quality of the cutting lines, always respecting good taste and animal welfare. Colours, decorations, sequins, applied glitter, decorative glue, accessories or ornaments are not allowed. Only moderate and localised use of natural glitter spray is allowed, provided that it is non-toxic, safe for the animal and does not prevent the judge from freely combing and evaluating every part of the coat. A collar is allowed. All products used must be non-toxic and suitable for use on animals. In case of inspection, the competitor must be able to demonstrate that the products are safe and comply with animal welfare regulations. The judges will particularly evaluate technical precision, clean cutting lines, creativity, originality, balance of the final result, the ability to enhance the dog’s young expression and the quality of the finishing. The coat must remain combable and fully checkable by the judges. Failure to follow the rules may result in a score penalty or, in more serious cases, exclusion from the competition. The class does not compete for Best in Show.

Competition times: 2 hours 30 minutes; 3 hours for giant dogs.

12. ASIAN STYLE OPEN CLASS

The Asian Style Open Class is open to experienced competitors according to the requirements established by Master Show. Purebred dogs, Doodles, crossbreeds and mixed-breed dogs are allowed. Asian Style is a creative grooming technique that was born and developed mainly in countries such as Korea, Japan, Thailand, China, Taiwan and Malaysia, and later became popular around the world. The objective is to enhance the dog’s young and attractive appearance, creating a puppy, teddy bear or cartoon effect through the trim, with original and personalised shapes. 3D shapes, including asymmetrical shapes, special leg shapes such as the “elephant-leg” effect, and details created with the coat, such as braids and ponytails, are allowed. However, the main characteristic of Asian Style must come from creativity and the quality of the cutting lines, always respecting good taste and animal welfare. Colours, decorations, sequins, applied glitter, decorative glue, accessories or ornaments are not allowed. Only moderate and localised use of natural glitter spray is allowed, provided that it is non-toxic, safe for the animal and does not prevent the judge from freely combing and evaluating every part of the coat. A collar is allowed. All products used must be non-toxic and suitable for use on animals. In case of inspection, the competitor must be able to demonstrate that the products are safe and comply with animal welfare regulations. The judges will particularly evaluate technical precision, clean cutting lines, creativity, originality, balance of the final result, the ability to enhance the dog’s young expression and the quality of the finishing. The coat must remain combable and fully checkable by the judges. Failure to follow the rules may result in a score penalty or, in more serious cases, exclusion from the competition. The class does not compete for Best in Show.

Competition times: small and medium dogs up to 45 cm: 2 hours; over 45 cm: 2 hours 30 minutes.

13. CLIPPER CHALLENGE CLASS

The Clipper Challenge is a special Master Show category dedicated to technical skill in the use of clippers. The objective is to create a complete, precise, harmonious and professional groom using clippers as the main tool throughout the competition. Purebred dogs, Doodles, crossbreeds and mixed-breed dogs with a coat suitable for this technique are allowed. The competitor may use clippers, blades, attachment combs and guide combs, as well as combs, brushes and products allowed for normal coat preparation and finishing. Scissors cannot be used during the competition. Only during the last 5 minutes, after the official signal from the Judges or the Ring Steward, may scissors be used exclusively for final finishing and blending. The main part of the work must therefore clearly be performed with clippers. The judges will evaluate the quality and precision of the clipper work, uniformity, blending, technical difficulty, transformation, balance, symmetry and finishing. Colouring is not allowed and the class does not compete for Best in Show.

Competition times: up to 45 cm: 1 hour 30 minutes; over 45 cm: 2 hours.

14. DUO DASH FOUR-HANDS CLASS

The Duo Dash Four-Hands is a team competition in which two groomers work at the same time on the same dog. Before the competition begins, they must declare how they will divide the work: right side/left side or front/rear. Each competitor may work only on their own part and cannot correct or complete their partner’s part. The competitors may communicate quietly only to coordinate their work. A competitor who finishes first cannot help their partner. During the last 5 minutes, only after the official signal from the Judges or the Ring Steward, both competitors may use scissors on the entire dog to blend, harmonise and perfect the finishing. The judges will evaluate the dog as one complete piece of work, considering uniformity, blending, balance, symmetry, technique, precision, transformation and finishing. The objective is to demonstrate that two different groomers can create one harmonious result. Colouring is not allowed and the class does not compete for Best in Show.

Competition times: up to 45 cm: 1 hour 30 minutes; over 45 cm: 2 hours.

15. MODEL DOG CREATIVE CLASS

The Model Dog Creative class represents the highest expression of creativity and imagination. Because this is a Model Dog, the competitor has maximum artistic freedom and may create any project, without having to respect breed standards or predefined styles. The more creative, original, colourful and spectacular the work is, the more it will be valued by the judges, while also considering the technical quality of the work. The Model Dog must be provided by the competitor and may be prepared at home with brushing and basic colouring. However, during the competition a substantial and judgeable part of the transformation must be completed, including cutting, colouring, finishing, shading and artistic construction. Colours, hairsprays, glitter, sequins, decorative elements, decorative glues, decorations and accessories of all kinds are freely allowed. Decorations that are part of the final result must be applied during the competition. The competitor may also dress and present themselves in a style that matches their creation, contributing to the overall visual impact. The judges will mainly reward creativity, originality, imagination, technical difficulty, quality of the cutting and finishing, use of colour, harmony of the composition, finishing and the final visual impact. The more original, surprising and artistically elaborate the project is, the more it represents the spirit of Model Dog Creative. The class does not compete for Best in Show.

Competition time: 2 hours.

16. MODEL DOG STANDARD TRIMS – BREED STANDARD CLASS

The Model Dog Standard Trims – Breed Standard is a technical competition in which the objective is to reproduce a breed and its correct show preparation on a Model Dog as faithfully as possible, according to the breed standard. Although this is a Model Dog, and therefore the use of colours, products and accessories is allowed, these must be used to enhance the representation of the breed and must not replace the technical cutting work or change its fundamental characteristics. Through the cutting work, the competitor must create a figure that is immediately recognisable, respecting as closely as possible the proportions, silhouette, angulation, volumes, characteristic lines, head, expression and typical features of the chosen breed, as if preparing a real dog for a show. The technical characteristics and limitations of the Model Dog will be taken into consideration during judging. The Model Dog must be provided by the competitor and may be prepared at home with brushing and basic colouring. The judges will mainly evaluate faithfulness to the breed standard, recognisability of the breed, proportions, balance, symmetry, expression, precision and technical difficulty of the cutting work, quality of the finishing and overall presentation. Colours, decorations and accessories are allowed, but they must not transform the work into a fantasy creation. The main focus must remain the recognisability of the breed represented and the competitor’s technical ability to reproduce it as realistically and correctly as possible. The class does not compete for Best in Show.

Competition time: 2 hours.

17. MASTER TEAM COMPETITION

The Master Team Competition is the Master Show team competition. Each team must consist of 4 groomers, who may come from any country and may belong to different associations, schools or sponsors. Each competitor may be a member of only one team. Each team member must participate in at least one class of the Championship but may enter and compete in more than one class, earning additional points for their Team. All classes officially included in the Master Show programme are valid for awarding points, including any divisions into Open Class and Champion Class. Best in Show, Special Awards, Special Trophies or other awards given outside the rankings of the individual competition classes do not give additional points. For each class, 10 points are awarded to 1st place, 8 points to 2nd place and 6 points to 3rd place. All points obtained by the four team members are added together to determine the team’s total result. Each competitor may therefore earn points in all the classes in which they compete. All valid results obtained in the classes in which the competitor participates count towards the Team’s total score. It is not necessary for the team to participate in every class, and each team member does not have to compete in a different category. In case of non-participation, withdrawal or disqualification from a class, the competitor will not receive points for that specific competition. If a result is later cancelled or revoked, the corresponding points will also automatically be removed from the Team ranking and the total score will be recalculated. In case of a tie between two or more teams, the team with the highest number of first places will be considered first, followed by the highest number of second places and, if the tie continues, the highest number of third places. If there is still a complete tie, the final decision will be made by the Judges. At the end of the Championship, all points obtained by the four team members will be added together, and the team with the highest total score will be declared MASTER TEAM WINNER 2027.

PART II – MASTER SHOW GENERAL RULES

The Master Show – International Grooming Championship is a national and international competition organised according to the EGA Rules for the official categories and according to the additional Master Show rules for the additional categories and activities. Participation in the event means that the competitor has read and fully accepts the EGA Rules, these Master Show General Rules and the specific rules of the class in which the competitor is entered.

1. PARTICIPANT REQUIREMENTS

The Championship is open to professional groomers with a VAT number, employees and collaborators working in the grooming sector. The Beginners Classes are an exception: people who are still in training may also participate and a VAT number is not required. When entry to a class depends on professional experience, this is calculated from the first practical experience in grooming or from the beginning of a training course, regardless of the date when the VAT number was opened or an employment relationship started. Experience gained in dog shows is also counted in the cases provided by the EGA Rules. EGA and the Master Show organisation do not have the means to check in advance the full competition and professional history declared by each competitor and therefore rely on the competitor’s good faith. If it is later discovered that the competitor did not meet the requirements for the class in which they participated, the organisation may cancel the title and the result obtained.

2. REGISTRATION AND DOG INFORMATION

The registration form must include, where required:

• competitor’s details
• professional experience
• dog’s breed
• microchip number
• chosen class
• for Poodles, the type of trim that will be performed; any other information requested by the organisation.

The competitor is personally responsible for the accuracy of the information provided, including the microchip number. If an incorrect microchip number or incorrect information is provided and this causes complaints, checks or possible penalties by the competent authorities, responsibility remains with the competitor. The dog cannot be replaced during the competition. The choice of trim or type of work must be communicated to the judges during pre-judging, when required by the category.

3. HEALTH DOCUMENTS AND VACCINATIONS

Dogs with an Italian microchip must have the required vaccinations documented in their health booklet. A passport and rabies vaccination are not required, unless different health regulations are in force at the time of the event. Dogs coming from abroad must have a passport, rabies vaccination and all health documents required by law for entry and stay in Italy. The organisation may arrange veterinary checks. If the health documents are not regular, the organisation may refuse the dog access to the event.

4. BITCHES IN SEASON

Bitches in season must be reported to the organisation in advance. Their participation may be allowed only if the logistics make it possible to prepare a separate area without affecting the correct running of the competition and without disturbing the other dogs. If the necessary conditions are not available, the organisation may refuse their participation.

5. CONDITION OF THE DOG BEFORE THE COMPETITION

Unless different rules are provided by the specific category, the dog must have enough coat to allow the competitor to create a clear transformation during the competition. As a general indication, the coat should have at least two months of growth and there should not be clearly visible lines or shapes from previous grooming. For Poodles, at least 5 cm of coat regrowth is required, while respecting the EGA Rules for face, feet and tail. A dog with visible lines or not enough coat may still be accepted into the competition, but the competitor must understand that this condition may prevent them from realistically competing for a win or a podium place. Dogs must arrive:

• completely free of knots
• clean
• washed and properly dried, except for the areas to be stripped
• with clean ears
• with well-maintained nails
• with all necessary hygiene work already completed.

The only areas that may be prepared in advance are those allowed by the EGA Rules and by the specific rules of the class.

6. DOG WELFARE AND HANDLING

The dog’s welfare has absolute priority throughout the event. The dog must be handled with respect, without rough, coercive or potentially dangerous behaviour. During the competition, the dog may be secured to the grooming arm, but the restraint system must be soft and must never be kept under tension. A judge may warn a competitor if they believe the dog is being handled in a rough or unsafe way. A second warning may result in disqualification. Wounds, cuts, abrasions, irritation or clipper burns may result in a serious penalty and, in the cases provided by the rules, disqualification or the competitor not being allowed to be declared the winner.

7. MANDATORY BREAK FOR DOGS

One hour after the beginning of the competition, there will be a mandatory 5-minute break. During this break:

• the dog must come down from the table
• the dog must be allowed to relax, move and drink
• the competitor may not continue grooming the dog
• the competitor may not use the break to receive instructions or outside assistance
• the competitor may not leave the ring without permission.

8. ARRIVAL AT THE RING AND PRE-JUDGING

All competitors must be in the ring 30 minutes before the official starting time of their class. This time is necessary for:

• competitor check
• organisation of the work stations
• dog check
• pre-judging
• initial photographs
• any communications from the judges.

The competition will start exactly at the published time. A competitor who arrives late may not be allowed to compete. Failure to participate because the competitor arrived late does not give the right to a refund of the entry fee.

9. BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOGRAPHS

The competitor and the dog must report, when requested, to the official photography area before the competition and after the work is finished. Photographs taken before and after the competition may also be used to check the transformation completed during the competition.

10. ACCESS TO THE RING

During the competition, access to the ring is allowed only to:

• competitors
• judges
• President of the Jury
• Ring Steward
• official photographer
• staff specifically authorised by the organisation.

No other person may enter the ring without authorisation.

11. COMPETITOR BEHAVIOUR

During the entire competition it is forbidden to:

• speak with people outside the ring
• receive suggestions from the audience
• speak with other competitors, except in classes where the rules specifically allow it
• use mobile phones
• use earphones
• use smartwatches
• use any electronic device that could allow communication with people outside the ring.

Communication with visitors or people outside the ring may result in exclusion from the competition. Any offensive, provocative, insulting, aggressive, inappropriate or disrespectful behaviour, language or attitude towards judges, competitors, organisers or staff may result in removal from the competition and from the event.

12. EQUIPMENT

The organisation provides:

• grooming table
• grooming arm.

The competitor must personally bring all the tools needed for their work, including scissors, combs, brushes, clippers, blades and permitted products. For competitors coming from countries with electrical voltage that is not compatible with the Italian system, Master Show may provide a clipper on loan, subject to availability. It is still recommended to bring your own blades.

13. PRODUCTS, CHALK AND FINISHING

The use of products is also regulated by the specific category. When chalk is allowed, it must be used in a way that does not leave residue on the judge’s hands and allows a comb to pass freely through the coat. At the end of the competition, when stop is called, the competitor may no longer change the work, apply hairspray or add products, except for any additional phases specifically allowed by their category.

14. END OF COMPETITION TIME

When stop is announced, all work must stop immediately. The competitor must:

• remove hair from the table
• remove tools and products
• clear the area around the workstation
• place under the table any objects that are on the floor
• leave a comb on the table for the judges.

A coloured mat may be used on the table, provided it does not interfere with judging. The competitor must personally present their dog and keep it correctly positioned during judging. Only when the judges have finished and it is announced that the dog may relax may the competitor stop presenting the dog.

15. JUDGING

For the official EGA categories, EGA judging sheets and the system provided by the EGA Rules are used. The results of the EGA categories are communicated to the EGA office. Official categories are normally judged by three judges. If there are fewer than four competitors, the organisation may request that the category be judged by two judges, in accordance with the applicable EGA rules.

16. JUDGES’ DUTIES

Judges:

• may not judge their own family members or employees
• must not exchange opinions about competitors during the competition or before completing their own individual evaluation
• may not leave the ring without authorisation from the President of the Jury
• must follow the rules of the class assigned to them
• must remain impartial and independent in their judging.

The Champion Class is judged with the level of strictness required by the EGA Rules. Before the beginning of the event, the organisation may call the judges to a technical meeting and explain or distribute the rules in order to make the organisational procedures consistent. .

17. PRESIDENT OF THE JURY

The President of the Jury supervises the correct running of the competition. Within their responsibilities, the President is responsible for the correct application of the rules and intervenes in situations that require an organisational or disciplinary decision. For EGA rankings, the President receives and adds together the points individually awarded by the judges.

18. RING STEWARD

Master Show may appoint one or more Ring Stewards. The Ring Steward is the connection point between competitor – judges – President of the Jury – organisation – outside audience. The Ring Steward has the task to:

• supervise the application of the rules
• receive reports
• take note of any problems or irregularities
• intervene when necessary
• report any problems to the President of the Jury
• prevent direct communication between competitors and the audience during the competition.

If a competitor has a problem, they must raise their hand and wait for the Ring Steward or the President of the Jury to come to them instead of leaving their work station on their own. The role of the Ring Steward has been created specifically to give greater protection to competitors and to guarantee a transparent, fair and calm competition environment.

19. COMPLAINTS

Any complaints must be submitted only in writing before the end of the event. The form may be requested from the event office or from the Ring Steward. A deposit of €25 must be attached to the complaint. Complaints made only verbally or after the event has ended will not be considered.

20. WASHING AND PREPARATION AREA

The washing area must be booked in advance through the Master Show website before registration closes. There will be 8 washing stations, with a maximum use of:

• 15 minutes per dog
• 20 minutes for large dogs.

The drying area will have 20 stations with dryers and blasters, with maximum times of:

• 30 minutes for small dogs
• 45 minutes for large dogs, approximately Standard Poodles, Kerry Blue Terriers and American Cockers.

When the assigned time is finished, the competitor must free the equipment so that other participants can use it. Anyone who needs additional time to comb, prepare or carry out permitted work must move to the designated preparation stations and may not continue occupying a dryer or blaster. Each competitor may be accompanied in the washing area by only one helper. At the entrance, the required badge or authorisation must be collected. It is forbidden to:

• move dryers or blasters from the assigned electrical sockets
• independently connect equipment to other electrical sockets
• use personal dryers or blasters without authorisation, in order to avoid overloading the electrical system.

Dogs that were not booked before the deadline are not guaranteed access to the washing area. A competitor who arrives late for their booking may lose the station and is not guaranteed another available time. The washing area will close on Sunday at 1:30 p.m.

21. DOGS INSIDE THE VENUE

All dogs present in the event areas must be kept on a leash, except when otherwise required for competition, preparation or transport. Owners must immediately pick up their dogs’ waste both inside and outside the venue. Failure to follow hygiene rules may result in removal from the venue.

22. HOTELS AND ROOMS

If participants stay in hotels connected with the event, they must fully respect the hotel rules. It is strictly forbidden to:

• allow dogs on the beds
• groom dogs inside hotel rooms
• use hotel towels for dogs
• take towels provided for the rooms and use them for dog preparation.

Any damage, extra cleaning, improper use or penalties charged by the hotel will be paid by the person responsible.

23. RESTAURANT AND GROOMING AREA

Dogs may not be taken inside the restaurant if the venue does not allow them. When permitted, dogs may be left in the grooming area inside their own carriers. The grooming area is not supervised. Therefore, any dogs left in this area remain completely under the responsibility of the owner or handler.

24. RESPONSIBILITY FOR DOGS, PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

Each participant is responsible for:

• their own dog
• their own equipment
• their own personal belongings
• any damage caused by their dog
• any damage personally caused to structures, people, animals or property.

The Master Show organisation accepts no responsibility for theft, loss, disappearance or damage to property, equipment or personal belongings, or for events caused by animals under the responsibility of their respective owners or handlers, within the limits allowed by law.

25. USE OF IMAGES, VIDEOS AND NAME

By participating in the event, competitors, judges and participants acknowledge that photographs and video recordings may be made during the event. Images, names and content related to participation may be used by Master Show for:

• website
• social media
• press
• advertising
• editorial material
• event communication
• promotion of current and future editions.

This use will be made in accordance with the applicable privacy and image-use regulations.

26. ORGANISATIONAL CHANGES

The Master Show organisation reserves the right to make changes to the programme, times, judge assignments, ring layout and organisational arrangements if exceptional circumstances, force majeure, safety requirements or situations that could not be foreseen at the time the rules were published occur. However, these changes may not arbitrarily alter the principles of the EGA Rules in the official categories.

27. BEST IN SHOW

Only categories that are eligible according to the EGA Rules and the official Master Show programme may enter the Best in Show. Special categories specifically declared “not eligible for Best in Show” may not compete for the title. Best in Show is judged according to the system and by the judging panel established for the Championship.

28. FINALISTS AND AWARD CEREMONY

Finalists for each class will be selected according to the applicable judging system. Finalist dogs must be kept in the same condition in which they were judged and may not be further changed before the award ceremony. The competitor must be available with their dog at the time of the announcement. The three finalists must keep their dogs unchanged until the award ceremony.

29. PRIORITY OF THE EGA RULES

The Master Show International Championship follows the official European Grooming Association Rules for all EGA categories. Master Show rules are organisational and regulatory additions and do not replace the EGA rules. In case of any difference concerning an official EGA category, the current EGA Rules take priority, except for Master Show organisational additions that are not incompatible with them. For any matter not otherwise regulated, the EGA Rules will apply.

ORGANISATIONAL CLAUSES AND RESPONSIBILITY

Force majeure, unforeseen events and changes to the event

Master Show reserves the right to modify, suspend, postpone or, in the most serious cases, totally or partially cancel the event if circumstances arise that are outside the organisation’s will and control. Examples include natural disasters, exceptional weather events, fires, health or veterinary emergencies, epidemics, orders from the Authorities, travel restrictions, strikes, sudden unavailability of the venue, major interruptions to electricity supply or essential services, public order or safety problems, unexpected impossibility of using the venue or any other extraordinary event that prevents the event from taking place normally or makes it unsafe. In these circumstances, the organisation may adopt the solution considered most appropriate, including postponing the event or changing the programme, times, spaces, categories or way the event is organised. Personal expenses paid by participants, such as travel, flights, fuel, hotel, food, dog transport or any other cost outside the Master Show entry fee, remain in all cases the responsibility of the participant and cannot be claimed from Master Show. If the event is postponed due to force majeure, the registration will remain valid for the new date communicated by the organisation, within the limits allowed by applicable law. If the event is instead permanently cancelled with no possibility of rescheduling, any financial rights of participants will be regulated according to applicable law and the registration conditions in force.

Competitor withdrawal, non-participation and refunds

Registration for the competition is personal and includes the reservation of a work station, organisation of the ring, assignment of judges, preparation of equipment and a series of costs paid in advance by Master Show. For this reason, entry fees are non-refundable in case of voluntary withdrawal, personal inability to participate, illness, travel problems, cancelled or delayed flights or trains, unavailability of the dog, irregular health documents, late arrival at the ring or failure of the competitor to attend, except for any different mandatory obligations required by law. The competitor’s absence or withdrawal is therefore not a reason to request a refund of the fee paid. Any request to replace the dog or competitor must be authorised in writing in advance by the organisation and may be accepted only if compatible with the rules of the class and with organisational requirements.

Insufficient number of entries, modification or merging of classes

The organisation reserves the right, if a class has an insufficient number of entries or if technical or organisational needs arise, to merge, reorganise, modify or, when necessary, not hold a category, provided this does not conflict with the EGA Rules in the official categories. If classes are merged, criteria that are as consistent as possible with the level and type of competition will be maintained. An organisational change to a class, when it does not prevent the competitor from participating in an equivalent or compatible category, does not automatically give the right to a refund.

Replacement of judges

The judges listed in the programme are confirmed according to the availability communicated to the organisation. In case of illness, inability to travel, force majeure, a new conflict of interest, organisational needs or any other circumstance that makes it impossible for a judge to attend, Master Show may replace that judge with another qualified judge, respecting EGA requirements where required. The replacement of one or more judges, when the competition can still take place normally, is not a reason to cancel the registration and does not give the right to a refund.

Condition of the dog, veterinary emergency and withdrawal from the competition

The dog’s participation is always subject to the protection of its physical and psychological welfare. If the attending veterinarian, the President of the Jury or the judges believe that a dog shows health conditions that are not compatible with continuing the competition, pain, breathing difficulty, excessive stress, uncontrollable aggression, serious fatigue or any other condition that may put the dog, other animals or people at risk, they may order the immediate interruption of the work and the withdrawal of the dog from the competition. A decision made for reasons of health, safety or animal welfare is final for the purposes of the competition. Withdrawal ordered because of conditions related to the dog does not give the right to a refund of the entry fee.

Medication, sedatives and alteration of behaviour

It is forbidden to enter a dog in the competition if it has been given sedatives, tranquillisers or other products for the purpose of artificially changing its behaviour, reactions or ability to tolerate the competition. If the dog is receiving necessary veterinary treatment, the competitor must make sure that this treatment is compatible with participation in the competition and, if requested by the organisation or the veterinarian, must provide suitable documentation. If there is reasonable doubt about the safety or suitability of the dog for the competition, a veterinary examination may be requested and the dog may be excluded.

Damage caused by competitors, dogs and accompanying persons

The competitor is responsible for their own dog and for the people accompanying them. Any damage caused by the competitor, the dog, an accompanying person or an assistant to structures, floors, tables, electrical systems, equipment, furniture, hotels, the exhibition centre, other animals, people or third-party property will be charged to the person responsible, within the limits provided by law. The organisation may request reimbursement of costs paid for repair, replacement, extraordinary cleaning or compensation for damage. The competitor is also responsible for the behaviour of their accompanying persons in the restricted areas of the event.

Technical problems and suspension of the competition

If, during the competition, blackouts, electrical faults, malfunctions of equipment provided by the organisation, technical problems with the venue or other events occur that may affect the fairness of the competition, the President of the Jury, together with the organisation, may temporarily suspend the competition. Lost time may be restored, the competition may continue using alternative arrangements, or any other solution considered fair and compatible with the proper running of the event may be adopted. The competitor may not independently demand cancellation or repetition of the competition, or a refund, if the organisation has adopted a reasonable solution allowing the competition to be completed.

Prizes, vouchers and sponsor prizes

The prizes listed in the programme may consist of trophies, products, vouchers, services or other awards provided by Master Show or by sponsors. If a specific product or prize is not available for reasons outside the organisation’s control, Master Show may replace it with a prize of an equivalent type or value, without this giving the right to a cash payment, unless the prize was specifically announced as a cash prize. For prizes or services provided directly by a sponsor, any obligations after delivery or assignment that are exclusively the sponsor’s responsibility remain the responsibility of that sponsor.

Disqualification and disciplinary measures

The following may result in a penalty, exclusion or disqualification, depending on the seriousness:

• providing false or incorrect information
• knowingly entering a class for which the competitor does not meet the requirements
• using prohibited products, tools or techniques
• receiving unauthorised outside assistance
• communicating with the audience or with other competitors when this is forbidden
• using a telephone or electronic devices
• deliberately continuing beyond the competition time
• changing the dog after stop is called or after judging
• rough or dangerous handling of the dog
• offensive or aggressive behaviour
• failing to follow instructions given by the President of the Jury, judges, veterinarian or Ring Steward
• any behaviour intended to improperly influence the result of the competition.

In the most serious cases, the organisation may also remove the person from the event and cancel any titles or prizes obtained, in accordance with the procedures provided by the EGA Rules when applicable.

Responsibility for accompanying persons and assistants

Each competitor is responsible for ensuring that accompanying persons, assistants or people authorised to follow them respect the Master Show Rules and the venue rules. Improper behaviour by an accompanying person that interferes with the competition, provides unauthorised assistance, creates dangerous situations or breaks the organisation’s rules may result in that person being removed from the restricted area and, when the behaviour has given an advantage to the competitor, may also have consequences for the competitor’s participation.

Situations not covered by the rules

For any situation not specifically covered by the Master Show Rules, a solution will be decided by the President of the Jury and the Organising Committee, after consulting the judges and veterinarian where the matter falls within their responsibility. In official EGA categories, the European Grooming Association Rules must always be respected. Every decision will be made giving priority to fairness of the competition, safety of people, animal welfare and the proper running of the event.

FULL ACCEPTANCE OF THE RULES AND COMPETITOR RESPONSIBILITY

Pursuant to and for the purposes of Article 1341 of the Italian Civil Code, by simply submitting the registration to Master Show, the competitor declares that they have read, understood and fully accepted in advance these Rules, the applicable EGA Rules and the specific rules of the chosen class. Submitting the registration therefore constitutes express acceptance of the participation conditions, regardless of the later payment of the entry fee. The competitor is personally responsible for the truthfulness and accuracy of all statements made during registration, including the choice of category and class. Master Show accepts these statements in good faith and on the basis of what is declared by the competitor and is not required to, nor does it have the necessary tools to, carry out a complete advance check of the professional career, competition history or results obtained by every individual participant. If, even after the event has ended, a false, incorrect or non-compliant declaration is discovered, the competitor assumes responsibility and Master Show may take the necessary measures, including disqualification, cancellation of the result, removal from the ranking, cancellation of the title, prize and any certificates obtained, in accordance with the EGA Rules where applicable. Acceptance of the rules through registration may not later be denied by claiming that the competitor had not read them, as the rules were made available to the competitor before registration was submitted, without prejudice to any rights that cannot be excluded by law.

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