Become an IJA Show Promoter

The IJA model utilizes a judging panel, as opposed to a single judge, for each contest class. During the contest, judges are required to converse and share their opinions. Placements are determined by consensus, not an individual judge.

This progressive association has changed the status quo of the contest environment. In the IJA contest ring, relaxing music is played, a contest break is scheduled for contestants and the competition dog, and when space allows, the ring is arranged in tiers to encourage observation and to create a learning experience for everyone. News of IJA events being referred to as the “compassionate ring” and the "fair ring" has traveled in contestant circles worldwide.

Through the collective efforts of it’s membership, IJA has been established in the industry as the international player in the art of judging dog grooming competitions.

Benefits of Providing an IJA Sanctioned Contest
  • IJA is the first and only association dedicated to the judging of dog grooming and styling contests.
  • IJA is unique in that it's team is experienced in working together to ensure fair and accurate placement of contestants in a timely manner.
  • The stellar reputation of the International Judges Association is well known in contest circles and so lends credibility to a show. Since its inception, contestants have been exceptionally responsive to the placements awarded by the IJA team. Instances whereby contestants or the audience disagrees with the IJA placements has been rare. Contestants routinely leave the IJA ring with a good feeling, even if they have not won, rather than resentment, accepting the decision of the panel.
  • IJA offers international competitions utilizing the same rules, classes and judging system making the IJA competition ring the most accurate when choosing the best of the best on an international scale.


Members Only Benefits
  • Certificate of Membership for framing.
  • Access to the IJA Show Promoter's Manual, IJA Judge’s Manual, Contestant’s Manuals and Professional's Certification Manual.
  • Show Promoter's Profile featured at IJAonline.com.
  • Option to participate in voting for the IJA Annual Achievement Awards.
  • Show Promoter's event information is added to the IJA Website for promotion.
  • Show Promoter's photos of the contest facility, the types of classes offered, the awards, the type and amount of the prizes and other special features about the competition or the area in which the competition is held is featured on the IJA website to promote the competition.
  • Show promoter can offer IJA Certification to Professional Bathers, Groomers and Stylist.
  • Show promoter can offer before and after evaluations to professionals participating in the IJA Certification process.
  • Show promoter can offer contestant before and after evaluations including achievement scores in technical, profile and difficulty.
  • Show promoter can offer contestant before and after evaluations including achievement scores in professionalism based on their overall image, rapport with the competition dog, the presentation of the competition dog and sportsmanship.
  • Member Forums, and More Members-Only Benefits Coming Soon!

    How To Register
    Existing Show Promoters or individuals interested in organizing and hosting an IJA Sanctioned Competition must first complete the     registration procedures and then complete the online and onsite training sessions on how to conduct an IJA Sanctioned Competition. If you have any questions regarding an IJA Show Promoter's criteria you may contact the IJA Operations Center.