We welcome both crossbreeds and pedigree dogs to any of our events and competitions, and did you know that you can handle any dog in our activities? So even if you aren't able to have a dog of your own, you can borrow a friend, relative or neighbour's dog and still compete. The only exception to this rule is our breed classes,so what are you waiting for? Get started today!
Grooming qualifiers are open to all dogs over 12 months of age so your dog does not have to be a pure-bred dog to take part, but it must be registered with the Kennel Club on either the Breed Register or the Activity Register. Members can learn about and train in grooming at YKC events and get lots of practice by grooming their own dog(s).
Young Kennel Club events are exclusively designed for members only and you can join the Young Kennel Club here. You can also begin training at the Young Kennel Club's dog training events before you begin competing.
Show the understanding and skill required to remove all dead hair and tangles from the dog’s coat. It is acceptable for the competitor to complete a small amount of trimming to tidy the feet, ears and tail. Basic trimming of feet, ears and tail for the purpose of tidying the coat, this should not be the main focus of this assessment.
Show skills in coat removal by stripping, trimming and/or clipping the coat. Competitors may use either one or all of these skills in this class. The handler will be judged on the ability they have shown with any grooming skills they have used to remove the coat.