Show Grooming
Long Coats
We have been blessed with numerous show groomers that use our products for best results before, during and after shows. In fact, show groomers LOVE IT when one of their competition dogs has had Iv San Bernard products used on it. See what Jackie Boulton says below about Suzanne’s Dog Kash.
This coat was a pleasure to scissor and I could see how healthy his skin and coat was right down to the root. I was very impressed with what Iv San Bernard has done for this dog.” Jackie Boulton, Winner Best in Show, Groom & Kennel Expo 2014. Photo courtesy Animal Photography.
Medium Coats
This coat was a pleasure to scissor and I could see how healthy his skin and coat was right down to the root. I was very impressed with what Iv San Bernard has done for this dog.” Jackie Boulton, Winner Best in Show, Groom & Kennel Expo 2014. Photo courtesy Animal Photography.
Why Show Groomers Focus on Skin and Coat Health
In the show ring, the coat has to look its best on one specific day, and it has to scissor and finish cleanly. That starts with healthy skin and hair down to the root. A coat that has been properly cleansed and hydrated over weeks of bathing holds its shape, has natural shine and color, and is far less likely to break, frizz or mat before the show.
Show Coat Care Before, During and After a Show
- In the weeks before: bathe regularly with products matched to the coat type, and always condition. The skin renews in about 21 days, so start early.
- Show week: bathe and fully condition, then dry carefully to set the coat for scissoring.
- At the show: use finishing products sparingly for shine and control, and never brush a dry coat.
- After the show: bathe to remove finishing products and restore hydration so the coat recovers.
Matching Products to Coat Type
- Long coats: focus on hydration to prevent breakage and protect length. In the Traditional line, Green Apple is formulated for long coats.
- Medium coats: balance protection and hydration for scissoring texture. Banana is formulated for medium coats.
- Short coats: emollient protection and shine. Lemon is formulated for short coats.
- Color: see our color enhancement products.
Explore luxury maintenance bathing, finishing products, and our article on when to use a conditioner.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you prepare a dog’s coat for a show?
Start weeks ahead with regular bathing and conditioning matched to the coat type, then bathe, fully condition and carefully dry the coat in show week so it scissors and finishes cleanly.
What shampoo do show groomers use?
Many show groomers use Iv San Bernard products before, during and after shows, choosing formulas matched to the coat type and always following with conditioner.