Q: I heard that UKC doesn't allow hairspray. Is that really true?
A: Yes, UKC rules clearly state that "exhibitors are prohibited from altering coat color, coat texture, ... or any other essential element of the dog's conformation by any external means, including artificial color, foreign substances..." (XXVI, F, 3). UKC judges are required to excuse dogs with prohibited alterations.

Q: But really, doesn't everybody use it anyway?
A: Actually, no. Ethical UKC exhibitors who have the best interests of our breeds at heart do not use hairspray, or any other prohibited alterations.

Q: What's the big deal anyway?
A: Coat texture is one of the prominent defining characteristics of the poodle breeds, and is an important factor in poodle breeding decisions. Because conformation competition has a strong influence on the selection of breeding stock, it is vital that judges be able to examine the natural coats of all poodles exhibited in conformation.

Q: If it's so important, why would anyone put hairspray on a poodle at a UKC show?
A: Some exhibitors who are new to UKC may not know about this rule and, sadly, there are some exhibitors who will do anything for a win, even if it is not in the best interest of their breed.

Q: I can't believe a judge would not know a poodle had hairspray in its coat! It's obvious!
A: In the past, poodle entries in most UKC shows have been small, so some UKC judges have limited experience with our breeds. If the spray is applied skillfully, it might not be obvious to a judge who has not encountered it before, or to one who is not acutely aware of the prevalence of this problem in our breeds.

Q: That's terrible! What can we do about this problem?
A: Judges' education is the best long-term approach. The UPBA Education Committee will be working on this. Individual exhibitors can also make an important contribution by alerting judges to the problem whenever they encounter it, and simply by showing clean poodles.

Q: What should you do if you see someone putting hairspray on a poodle at a UKC show?
A: Go to the judge after judging of the breed is finished and politely explain what you saw. It is not necessary to identify the particular handler or dog involved.

Q: Why wait until after the breed has been judged?
A: Doing it sooner would make it look like you were trying to influence the judge's decision. That would make the judge not listen to you.