Show Placings
Driffield Championship Show
22nd Sep 2018
Judge: Mr Paul Wilkinson
Minor Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Lovely head shape, great expression, excellent neck, top line and under line, good legs and feet, super coat, preferred the front movement of 1 today
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Championship Show
30th Sep 2018
Judge: Mr David Fryer (Irton)
My thanks to the Club for an enjoyable day; and to my stewards Kevin and Julie who ensured that all flowed smoothly and that my only task was to judge the dogs. Thanks also to the rest of the committee and helpers who ensured a well run show. I was well pleased with the entry; real quality beyond the available cards in many classes. I had no bad mouths (a few lost and broken teeth, not a major problem to me); but quite a few with small teeth in a technically perfect bite. All males were entire. I had expected (from recent ringside observation) to find front movement, in particular, a problem; so was pleasantly surprised in the entry on the day in this respect. However, too many of the dogs did not have the construction and fitness to appear able to move efficiently over rough ground all day. Coats were variable, most being well prepared and tidy; pelts, on the whole, were good, but feet were often weak with thin pads.
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
6 mo grizzle dog, nicely balanced outline, nicely angulated both ends. Strong head and big teeth. Moving a little close in front and behind but getting over his ground well. Good coat and pelt.
South Wales Kennel Association
5th Oct 2018
Judge: Mr Peter Bakewell
Best Puppy
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
a lovely well balance pup with good outline, good head, and ears, keen expression, good neck good and forequarters, well ribbed, good hindquarters and moved very well. Best Puppy in Breed.
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
20th Oct 2018
Judge: Mr Kevin Green (Terabyte)
I would like to thank the club officers & committee for inviting me to judge their show. I would also like to thank the stewards Anna & Judith for doing an excellent job and for keeping the show flowing so well. I was very pleased with the entry and thank you to all the exhibitors for such a lovely entry. I had such lovely dogs & bitches to go over on the day, they had good coats and pelts overall, I was a little disappointed on movement. All dogs were entire.
Once again I would like to thank the Club for a well-run show and such enjoyable day.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Best Puppy
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Good head & teeth, strong muzzle, lovely expression for a dog so young, had a narrow front and nice top line. Good pelt and coat, showed well hence (BPIS).
Maiden - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
See Minor Puppy Dog.
Midland Counties Canine Society
27th Oct 2018
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Bailey (Grindelvald)
IT WAS AN HONOUR TO JUDGE THE MIDLAND COUNTIES CS ON THEIR 50TH ANNIVERSARY.
ALSO MANY THANKS TO THE EXHIBITORS FOR ENTERING THEIR DOGS UNDER ME & MY STEWARDS KEPT THE RING RUNNING SMOOTHLY, WITH SUCH AN EXCELLENT ENTRY.
ALL DOGS WERE ENTIRE, 1 OR 2 DISAPPOINTING MOUTHS. I’M AMAZED THE AMOUNT OF TIT-BITS SOME OF THE EXHIBITORS GAVE THEIR DOGS, ESPECIALLY ON THE TABLE MOST WERE BEING REWARDED FOR BAD BEHAVIOUR, THE WORSE THE DOG BEHAVIED THE MORE FOOD THEY GOT. I FOUND SOME OF THEM ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO EXAMINE, MAYBE MORE RING CRAFT CLASSES WOULD HELP!
IT IS VERY PROMISING TO SEE SOME QUAILITY PUPPIES COMING THROUGH. STILL A FEW DODGY FRONTS. OVERALL THE QUALITY IS IMPROVING. PLEASED TO SEE NO AGGRESIVE BEHAVIOUR IN THE BREED, IN OR OUT OF THE RINGTODAY.
NICE TO SEE MY BOB WINNER WENT ON TO WIN THE TERRIER GROUP. I UNDERSTAND FROM THE OWNER THIS WAS HIS LAST SHOW AS THE DOG IS BEING RETIRED FROM SHOWING .A DELIGHT TO JUDGE HIM.
IT WAS A REAL PLEASURE TO JUDGE ALLTHE DOGS WHO CAME UNDER ME.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Best Puppy
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
VERY PROMISING PUPPY, SHOWED WITH CONFIDENCE.NICELY PROPORTIONED HEAD, CORRECT SCISSOR BITE. SPANABLE, STRAIGHT FRONT, NEAT FEET.KEPT LEVEL TOPLINE ON THE MOVE & STOOD. GOOD REAR & FRONT ANGULATION. THICK PELT, EXCELLENT HARSH DOUBLE COAT MAKING HIM APPEAR HEAVIER THAN HE ACTUALLY IS. MOVED & SHOWED WELL. BP.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
4th Nov 2018
Judge: Mr. Paul Cheeseman (Bromscar)
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
nice grizzle and tan puppy who showed himself well, good front and rear, moved out well for one so young. Decent jacket and correct shaped tail. Promising youngster.
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
10th Nov 2018
Judge: Mrs Charlotte Archibald (Tweedburn)
My sincere thanks to the Scottish Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their Championship show, one of my favourites. Also my thanks to the exhibitors for allowing me the privilege to judge their dogs.
My main concern is size and weight, it really does matter, there were a number of exhibits that were too heavy/big, and at the other end of the spectrum, not enough muscle/bone/condition, which is essential for a working dog. However, I was very happy with the main winners, and both line ups.
Reserve Best Puppy
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
almost 8 mths old, grizzle, nicely put together pup, excellent mouth and dentition, keen expression, well balanced throughtout, thick pelt and good jacket, moved out well on neat feet, front needs to tighten up but will come as he matures. BPD
Novice - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
1st MPD
Ladies Kennel Association
16th Dec 2018
Judge: Mrs. K. Wilkinson (Otterkin)
Thanks to the exhibitors for a super entry of Border Terriers. As I repeatedly say, the shows are about the dogs and the exhibitors and are not held for the benefit of the judges, so I appreciated the honour of going over your dogs. Thanks also to the ring stewards Angie Feildsend and Andrea Caudrelier who kept everything flowing smoothly so that we finished in good time. With an entry of 148 dogs making 159 entries, we had the highest entry in the Terrier Group and what a lovely entry it was that awaited me on 16th December. As my finalists came into the ring for each set of CCs, I thought "I like all these!!"
After the show was over, I was told that the four dogs I had brought together at the top of the ring, when deciding on the Dog CC, were all related to one dog and in fact three of them were by that same dog, one I have often referred to in the past when discussing stud dogs with people, as a dog who consistently puts breed type on his progeny, so I was thrilled to be told that Ch Grindelvald In Full Cry JW sired three of the dogs and was the great grandsire of the fourth and to confirm that in the catalogue later. Congratulations to Mrs Margaret Bailey on breeding and owning a dog who clearly puts his breed type stamp on his progeny.
Unless something changes drastically with the Judges Competency Framework, this will be my last General Championship Show appointment and so, when asking for the name of the dog to whom I had awarded the CC and Best of Breed at the end when I was filling in the Award Cards, it was fitting that I then found out his name was Dassett Last Waltz JW. So pleased to later see him pulled out in the shortcut in the Terrier Group. Good luck for the future.
Best Puppy
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
also Best Dog Puppy and Best Puppy in Breed. Just a few days shy of 9 months old, this Grizzle and tan dog had a lovely tight jacket. Although the topcoat still needs to come in more, he had all the essentials there. Coats come and go but with construction so good for a baby puppy, he could not be denied. Fantastic otterhead with well placed ears and strong jaw. Good narrow front. Rib carried well back. Excellent topline with tail coming straight off the back. Not over-angulated in the hindquarters, everything is in proportion and he stands and moves very well. Just right for bone. Exciting prospect for the future. Final notes say "What a lovely example of the breed".
Manchester Championship Show
18th Jan 2019
Judge: Mrs. Kathy Newsome (Kighill)
My first judging appointment at a Championship show and what a lovely day I had. Firstly I would like to thank the Manchester Dog Society for inviting me to judge their show, and also to all the exhibitors for showing their support.
I had a lovely selection of dogs and I was very pleased with the quality that came before me. All dogs were entire and mouths were good. Some dogs could have done with being tidied up a little more.
Best Puppy
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Super puppy dog with a good head with a lovely expression. Good mouth and well positioned ears. Straight front nice tight feet, level topline and had a great presence in the ring for a young dog. Moved with confidence back and front. Please to award him Best puppy in the breed.
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
26th Jan 2019
Judge: Mr Bob Blackley (Vaevictus)
It was an honour and pleasure to Judge at this great club show, I would like to thank the officers and committee for inviting me, also a big thank you to all the exhibitors, my entry was fantastic full of quality, I’m sorry but some really good dogs were not in the top honours today. I thought the bitches in general were of better quality than the dogs which is good for the breed, and in the dogs, I also noticed some exhibits were lacking coat, a sign of Crufts approaching, but in general they were good.
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Grizzle dog, strong head, well angulated front and rear, good profile on the move, good coat.
West Midland Terrier Society Open Show
9th Feb 2019
Judge: Anne Speake
I would like to thank the officers and committee for their invitation to judge at the show. The hospitality received was much appreciated, and the day was one I really enjoyed. It was lovely to see such a good entry for the show as a whole, my thanks to my two capable stewards, who kept things moving along nicely. Thanks also to the exhibitors who did me the honour and privilege of going over their dogs and accepting my decisions in a sporting manner. All exhibits were of good quality and fit for purpose. As to be expected at this time of year, coats were at various stages. I was delighted with my entry.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: 3rd BIS, Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Best Puppy
Name at show: BPIS, Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
11 mth old dark grizzle dog, well grown and mature for age with an attractive masculine otter head, short muzzle, neat ears and little stop. Nice dark eye with keen expression. Good reach of neck and well placed shoulders, good length of rib, leading in to a level top line and short carroty tail well set on. With a thick loose pelt and sporting a harsh double coat. With a good angulations fore and aft enabling him to move around the ring with drive. Pleased to award him BD BOB BPIB and later see he went BIS3 and BPIS
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
10th Feb 2019
Judge: Mrs Margaret Davies (Glenorchy)
I would firstly like to thank the Club for giving me the opportunity to judge their February Open Show, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Also thank you to my very efficient stewards Julie Price ad Jem Thomas and by no means least my grateful thanks to all the exhibitors for a super entry.
A few exhibits were wide in front, one or two I couldn't span, movement left a lot to be desired and some could have done with a little more tidying up.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Best Puppy
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
I really liked this young man. Super conformation with lovely otter head, neat ears, lovely expression, good strong teeth and good depth of muzzle, excellent lay of shoulder, good front with nice tight feet, level topline and good tail set. He has a super coat and lose pelt. Moved round the ring with ease Pleased to award him BPD and BPIS.
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
23rd Feb 2019
Judge: Ms Tina Jones (Otterholme)
May I take the opportunity to thank the Club and its members for inviting me to judge at this show, and for the super warm hospitality I received. Special thanks to my ring stewards Carolyn Richardson and Janice Johnson, for being so efficient and keeping me on track.
I would like to say a huge thank you to the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to go over their dogs, this was a real honour and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
A few observations from the day, I felt rear movement on the whole was good but a few lacked the drive that I looked for, whilst in others it was their elevated front action that indicates an upper arm that is shorter than ideal. Today I saw too many that were far too wide in front, lacking the narrowness to go to ground. I like to see feet that are tight with a good thick pad so vital in an earth dog, many were lacking in this important trait.
Heads which are such a defining aspect of this breed, varied greatly, I found some too exaggerated and coarse for my liking, whilst others were narrow and somewhat snipey in muzzle, neither are correct.
Today I found coats at all stages, perhaps a sign that Crufts was not far around the corner, so perhaps not the best month to find a thick double jacket, so I found myself forgiving a lack of coat if the construction and balance I look for was there.
I found temperaments superb, dentition all good and all dogs entire. I felt the depth of quality was in the bitches, and in some classes I was spoilt for choice. Both puppy bitch classes were high in quality, and I look forward to seeing how they mature.
I am always mindful to judge fit for function, and I was happy that my winners fitted that bill.
Puppy - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Crufts
9th Mar 2019
Judge: Mrs Trak Fryer (Irton)
A very great thank you to the exhibitors for giving me such a superb entry, I hope that I did it justice. My thanks must also go to my Stewards who worked very hard to keep the classes moving well.
This was a very challenging entry with some very big classes filled with quality dogs all the way through, there were no easy decisions. I tried to pull out all the dogs that I felt were in contention to give those exhibits a closer look. This meant that those out of coat or condition paid the penalty. particularly in the upper classes many super quality dogs had to go out without a place - I just didn't have enough cards.
On the plus side all the exhibits were good tempered and happy in the ring. Most dogs came with a good coat on and a decent pelt. There were plenty of good heads and neat well balanced Borders, the key to the Standard. The Breed Standard asks for a dog that can run, requiring heart and lung room, and that can go to ground, requiring a good rib carried back without exaggerated angulations, a rather challenging blueprint to fit into a fairly small package.
There were quite a number with rather heavy or thin ears, round eyes and I was surprised to find quite a number of “winter noses”; I did not necessarily penalise these if the rest was OK. There were a number of heads with weak jaws framed by sticky out ears, a worrying trend. There were some heavy bitches well beyond spannable.
The biggest problem is movement with the forward angulations mostly at fault, this has been a problem in the breed for some time but there are now a significant number with tied in fronts waving their forelegs about, a new variant!
A well made dog will just cover the ground without any fuss or flipping – a joy to see. In order to do this they also need a reasonable build of muscle and it is a constant concern of mine that so many that come into the show ring do not have this.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
A big dog but spannable, very attractive type, good head and eye, could be a bit stronger over the foreface, good for bone, neat feet. In a good coat and moving OK BPD but preferred the size of the bitch for BP.
Class Critique
A good class of dog pups with a lot of promise, some paying the penalty for coat and some a bit overawed by the surroundings.
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
20th Apr 2019
Judge: Mr Graham Richardson (Staynorwood)
I would like to thank the Officers and Committee for inviting me to judge their Open Show and also the sporting way in which the exhibitors accepted my decisions. Also thank you to my stewards Anna Duxbury and Bridget Singh for keeping the ring moving smoothly throughout the day. Most exhibits were shown in a fit condition although there were one or two that were a little over weight and nervous on the day.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Smart looking young dog with a typical otterhead,strong jaw with big teeth. Good length of back, narrow in front .spannable, correct double coat with thick pelt. Tail set on well and carried well. Good rear angulation, strode out well around the ring.
Joint Border Terrier Clubs' Championship Show
5th May 2019
Judge: Mrs Su Williams (Hollybridge)
I would like to thank The Border Terrier Club for the invitation & thank my 2 very capable Stewards Carolyn Richardson & Liz Barrett for their help on the day. I would also like to thank those exhibitors who entered under me and who accepted the placing's sportingly. I was pleased to have a number of high quality entries but the down side of that is, some good dogs went card less
Mouths are a bit of a worry as I noticed a few with a tooth or teeth out of line, small teeth and one even undershot. Movement on the whole was good especially in my winners. Coats & Pelts were good too,with just a few thin pelted dogs.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
What a lovely young dog this Grizzle & tan boy is, so balanced with super topline, moved out very well . Lovely masculine head and expression. He was just pipped to the post today for Res CC but it was close and I did like him so much.
National Dog Show
11th May 2019
Judge: Mrs Anne Heathcote (Saxheath)
I would like to thank the Society for giving me the opportunity to judge our breed for the first time at their 160th Anniversary show and for their hospitality. I was able to complete the judging in good time thanks to my two excellent Stewards Steph and Alan.
The quality of the entry was pleasing overall but one or two could have benefited from tidying , it is a show and you owe it to your dog to present them well , and I was unable to span a few . However , my main winners were for me the correct size and in some of the classes the decisions were very close.
Thank you for accepting my decisions so gracefully.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Lovely gr dog. Masculine head and big teeth. Straight front , level topline and good bend of stifle topped by a thick pelt and harsh jacket. Moved soundly and presented and handled perfectly. Considered for top honours.
Boston & District Canine Society Open Show
28th May 2019
Judge: Mr. Peter Armstrong ( Atron )
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
14 month old grizzle & tan dog. Masculine head, good length of muzzle and large teeth. Straight front, good shoulder placement, level topline and good bend of stifle. Good pelt and harsh jacket. Neat feet. Moved soundly.
Post Graduate /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
The Southern Counties Canine Assocation
1st Jun 2019
Judge: Miss J Singh (Vandamere)
I was a delighted to receive the invitation to judge at this friendly and well run show The weather was glorious and there was a nice atmosphere around the ring.
I thoroughly enjoyed my day as I had some quality dogs to go over and this was reflected on the impressive results in the Group placings . I was thrilled to learn that the Best of Breed was awarded Terrier Group 1, my bitch CC winner was awarded Terrier Junior Group 2, the puppy gained Puppy Terrier Group 3 and the veteran was awarded Veteran Terrier Group 3. Is this a new record for group placings at one show for the breed?
The day was kept running smoothly by my two stewards Alan McKenzie and Sue Hann,
I was concerned about the number of exhibits with misplaced teeth. In total I found five exhibits each with a misplaced tooth, also two kinked tails and one exhibit with one testicle. Some exhibits were lacking in muscle tone and condition.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Up to size but still spannable, he has a good otter head with a strong muzzle, correct bite and a nice dark eye. He has a pleasing outline, good coat and pelt, showed well. His rear movement was ok however his front movement was not as positive as the winner.
Border Union Agricultural Society
15th Jun 2019
Judge: Joyce Martin (Merumhor)
I would like to thank Border Union Agricultural Society for the invitation to judge my first CC appointment in Border Terriers and to my ring steward Alicia Wilson for keeping me right and the smooth efficiency of getting each class in the ring to keep things going.
I was delighted with the super entry of 123 dogs making 142 entries and appreciate all the exhibitors that gave me the opportunity to go over their dogs and the sporting way they accepted my decisions.
The overall quality was excellent, I was privileged to judge so many lovely dogs and I was pleased with my main winners, all looking in tip top condition on the day.
I was surprised that in some of the exhibits that underneath good coats there was lack of condition and a bit thin and some were lacking thick skin and loose pelt that is important in our breed.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
A g/tan dog who had lots to like about him! He has a super head, flat skull and strong muzzle with keen dark eye. He was shown in a tight jacket with a good pelt. He has a level topline and carrot tail straight off the back. Liked his overall balance. Considered him for higher awards.
Derbyshire Agricultural & Horticultural Society
23rd Jun 2019
Judge: Mr Jim McGhie (Keillor)
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
East of England Championship Show
6th Jul 2019
Judge: Mrs Janet Alexander (Glenbucket)
RDCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Lovely otter type head,dark eye well placed ears, good reach of neck into level top line which he held on the move thick loose pelt good double coat pushed hard for top honours but preferred the movement of yearling dog RCC.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
4th Aug 2019
Judge: Dogs: Diane Bullen (Fevstone) Bitches: Sally Leslie (Risdene)
*Judge: Dogs: Diane Bullen (Fevstone)*
I would like to thank the Midland Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their show and making me feel most welcome. I would also like to thank my Stewards for a sterling job.
A good exhibit entry on the day with couple of them forgetting to remove their carpet slippers judging by their feet, and also a couple that I felt they were impersonating Austin Powers international man of mystery judging by the amount of chest hair left on! But on a more serious note, yet again underweight dogs with some having barely a covering of flesh which was disappointing, some dogs also un-spannable.
Both of the above reflecting in my placing’s. On a more positive note some excellent specimens shown today both in coat, movement and good old fashioned strong otter type heads.
*Judge: Bitches: Sally Leslie (Risdene)*
Thank you to the Committee and Exhibitors for a super day. It must always be a pleasure and honour to judge at a club show where the depth of quality is clearly high and this was especially appreciated after so many had also made the long journey to Devon the day before.
I’m not going to lecture. After all we are all on the same side and want our breed to thrive. However I think I should mention that movement is not generally true and accurate fore and aft. I did see some strange limb and joint placement. Notwithstanding less than perfect gait I still sought something that did not make me uncomfortable to watch and importantly for me exhibited easy freedom using the whole of the foot and leg assembly to take energy from the ground not jolting or with feet flipping limply but fluid placement with reach and drive. That does not imply exaggeration and wasted energy just simple low to the ground daisy cutting propulsion and economy which is a thing of beauty to behold.
Mouths and jaws generally were pleasing. The small pearly dentition of a while ago were not in evidence and I enjoyed the large teeth that never fail to surprise and please. For this reason I have not felt the need to remark individually.
I never penalise stacked exhibits but I Ioved the preponderance of handler’s free showing. Relaxed, well made examples do stand nicely naturally and it often seems to me that exhibitors know less than their charges when it comes to limb placement and balance.
Coats - I really appreciated those exhibitors who felt able to leave coats in place even though a little past their sell by date. I can happily judge through a good coat which enables me to ascertain texture and quality whereas however neat an outline the lack of any evidence of coat in this working breed must be a negative.
Happily my fellow judge and I agreed on most of the main placings and I did not trouble the Referee as for me the prime consideration for any exhibitor must surely be the CC.
Junior - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Welsh Kennel Club
17th Aug 2019
Judge: Miss T Peacock
I was honoured to be invited to judge the Welsh Kennel Cub Ch. Show. The entry was excellent both in quality and quantity, It was a pleasure to go over such quality exhibits. Movement was variable and some exhibits moved okay coming an going but lacked drive.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
well turned out dog who looked balanced standing and on the move. Good teeth and strong jaw, pleasing head and expression, super neat feet, easily spanned, good tailset.
City of Birmingham
31st Aug 2019
Judge: Mr Dan Ericsson (Sweden)
It is always a pleasure to judge Border Terriers and this was no exception. Many thanks for a decent entry which, however, was marred by quite a number of absentees.
There has always been diversity in the breed, but I felt this was even more obvious this time than on previous occasions when I have judged Borders in the UK. Many dogs were well up to size making them impossible to span. I also felt that heads varied more than I would have liked with plenty of large ears and long weak muzzles, often also falling away under the eyes. Temperaments, as one would expect, were excellent and so were coats and pelts on the whole. Grateful thanks for the sporting manner in which my placings were accepted, and also to my stewards.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
masculine puppy, stronger in build than the winner and he must not thicken in body, good head, excellent tail, coat and movement, rather large in ears
Class Critique
Quality class but great variation in size
Darlington Championship Show
14th Sep 2019
Judge: Mr M. Hollingsbee (Otterwood)
I would like to thank my stewards Lesley and Peter Armstrong-Rodgers for the excellent way they controlled the ring in a peaceful and confident way ensuring a good natured atmosphere to reign.
The exhibitors also deserve thanks for entering and accepting my decisions in a sporting way and spectators applauding each class in turn.
The quality of the majority of the exhibits was good but some of them had suspect front movement which seems to be common in certain Borders.
Junior - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
22nd Sep 2019
Judge: Mr A Horner (Stineval)
May I take the opportunity to thank the Club and its members for inviting me to judge at this show, and for the super warm hospitality I received. Special thanks to my ring stewards Carolyn Richardson and Julie North, for being efficient and keeping me on track.
I found no bad mouths and as always in our breed, coats at various stages. Lots of spannable dogs and bitches which I like.
I would like to say a huge thank you to the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to go over their dogs, this was a real honour and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
(G/t) Masculine head with dark eye, big teeth in a strong jaw. Straight front, enough bone, tight feet with thick pads, level topline and good bend of stifle, a nice thick loose pelt and harsh jacket. Moved soundly and presented and handled very well.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
5th Oct 2019
Judge: Mrs. L. Roberts (Mindlen)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for inviting me to judge their open show the hospitality was second to none. Thanks must also go to the efficient stewards and sporting exhibitors for their support would like to thank the officers and committee for inviting me to judge their open show the hospitality was second to none. Thanks must also go to the efficient stewards and sporting exhibitors for their support
Reserve Best In Show
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Reserve Best Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Quality dog of lovely size. Masculine head of good proportions lovely front and tight feet. Good topline and tail set.spannable rib of good shape in good hard condition moved well. In excellent coat and shown to perfection.
South Wales Kennel Association
12th Oct 2019
Judge: Mrs M Wanless (Thorneyburn)
My thanks go to SWKA for their kind invitation to judge at this good venue. Also to my stewards Sue and Wendy who kept things flowing.
Thank you too all those who entered and accepted my decisions so sportingly. All mouths were good, all dogs entire and coat quality was excellent , especially in the dog classes. Pleased with my winners, and my final line-up, and to see my bob and bp be shortlisted in their groups.
RDCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
17 months grizzle. In lovely harsh coat on a thick pelt. Strong head good jaw and teeth, dark eye, neat ears. Well boned, straight front , neat feet, moved out well. RDCC
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
19th Oct 2019
Judge: Miss Katie Hamilton (Cromlechs)
Firstly I would like to thank The Border Terrier Club for giving me the honour of judging the open show at Low Hesket, with this show and venue being very memorable from a young age I was delighted and privileged to accept the invitation to judge the show. A huge thank you goes to my two stewards on the day who kept my ring moving smoothly, also appreciation goes to the club as a whole for the great hospitality shown. The standard of the exhibits on the day was overall pleasing with quality of bitches slightly outweighing the dogs, many thanks to all exhibitors for giving me the chance to go over their dogs and making my day such a pleasure.
Best In Show
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Best Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Grizzle dog whom the minute I set my eyes on him I knew he was my winner, he just screams typical border and completes the whole picture by being a complete showman and very well presented with a tight coat. Beautiful head with correct skull and length of muzzle, ears set well and big strong teeth with correct bite. Nice reach of neck flowing into a good shoulder and front, well carried back rib allowing him to be easily spanned, level topline that was kept on the move and a lovely thick carrot tail. Moved with drive around the ring on neat feet oozing quality. Best Dog & Best Of Breed
Midland Counties Championship Show
24th Oct 2019
Judge: Mr Stuart Plane
Yearling - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
This dog has the most attractive outline, with well placed shoulders and such a free mover, used his tail to advantage, spans easily plenty of texture to his coat
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
3rd Nov 2019
Judge: Ms Judith Fawcett (Carrock)
I would like to thank the Midland Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge this my second breed club show. Thank you to the committee for their kind hospitality and the lovely gift I received at the end of the day. My two stewards, Sharon Pickering & Beverley Barber, kept things moving along nicely – thank you. I was delighted with the entry – thank you to everyone for giving me the opportunity of going over your dogs and for the sporting manner in which my decisions were accepted. As expected coats were at various stages – some were good, some going over and a couple of exhibits were freshly pulled out. All dogs were entire and there were no kinked tails. There were one or two untidy and a couple of level mouths. I had one main concern on the day – size. There were some exhibits who were just too big to span and weighed heavy and this was reflected in their placings. I thoroughly enjoyed my day and was delighted with my main winners - I had some good quality dogs to judge.
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
well presented, masculine headed dog with dark eye, big teeth and strong jaw. Well off for bone – just spannable. Straight front, level topline and nice tail set. Thick loose pelt and good jacket. Moved OK, although not so positive in front.
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
9th Nov 2019
Judge: Mrs J Johnson (Ratcheugh)
Firstly my thanks to the Scottish Border Terrier Club for giving me the opportunities to judge their Championship show, the committee for their hospitality and my stewards for keeping me on track. My thanks also to Joyce Martin for giving me memories of the day.
Secondly my appreciation to all exhibitors some who had travelled many miles on a very cold and frosty morning, it was a privilege to go over your dogs and thank you for accepting my decisions.
I was extremely pleased with my main winners, it’s very pleasing to have a class of borders and find one which ticks all your boxes.
Some puppies were in my opinion are too big and some I found difficult to span. I also prefer if handlers allowed the puppy to walk loosely and not strung up, this throws the front movement.
Best In Show
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
DCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
quality border with no exaggerations creating a lovely outline, super head and expression, good length of neck easily spanned, narrow throughout, level topline with correct tail set, well angulated hindquarters, sound and balanced, shown in correct coat with thick loose pelt, good mover, well presented and shown, a lot to like, very happy to give this dog DCC and BIS
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
22nd Feb 2020
Judge: Anne Speake
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the officers and committee for inviting me to judge the first of their centenary shows this year and for their warm welcome and hospitality. Thank you to my two stewards, Judy Carr and Judith Fawcett who had the ring running like clockwork, which enabled me to get on with the job of judging a large quality entry. Thank you to all the exhibitors for giving me such a wonderful entry of 143 dogs, sadly the serve flooding at the time made for several absentees, but I’d like to thank everyone who braved the floods and made the journey. This was my first breed club appointment, which was a truly memorable experience and one I won’t forget. Thank you for the lovely gifts which I will treasure. I was generally very pleased with the overall quality of the dogs entered under me. Coats were at varying stages, and some dogs paid the price today. The quality in some classes made for some difficult decisions, especially in the limit/open classes, and I would have liked more first places.
Best Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Best In Show
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
judged this one as a puppy and gave him top honours, he’s matured in to a lovely dog. Lovely otter head, with strong jaw, well set ears, dark eye, excellent size & shape to body, neat feet with good thick pads, good shoulder placement, easy to span. Fit and well muscled shown in a new tight coat with a thick pelt. In excellent condition, good strong quarters which he used well on the move, keeping a strong top line. Pleased to award him BD and BIS
Crufts
8th Mar 2020
Judge: Mr Simon Jackson (Clipstone)
Firstly, I would like to thank the Kennel Club for allowing me the honour of judging this Border Terrier Centenary year. I also thank my excellent stewards for keeping me on track and to everybody who gave me such a fantastic entry, both in numbers and quality across all classes. To be blunt, I don't think I have ever seen and enjoyed such a very high quality entry before. Unfortunately many good exhibits went home unrewarded. Several classes the placed exhibits could have all stood in first place. I really was splitting hairs. I can honestly say that I really enjoyed myself and hope everybody else did too. I'd also like to thank Joyce Martin and my son, Laurence Jackson, for the excellent photographs which has made the writing of this critique so much easier. I understand Laurence also live-streamed the CC's and BOB – technology far above me – but thanks!
DCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Can I start off with the word "wow"! The keenest of intelligent expressions, classic strong otter head. Good front. Perfectly level topline, excellent quarters and strength of loin. Pin-wire hard coat, painful to the touch! Really caught my eye in the class and again in the challenge. A worthy winner of the Dog CC.
Southern Counties Canine Association
27th Jun 2021
Judge: Mr Kevin Green (Terabyte)
I would like to thank all the Officers and Committee of the Southern Counties Canine Association for inviting me to judge their show for Border Terriers. It was my first judging appointment for a CH Show and I was very pleased with my entry also I would like to thank all the exhibitors who entered and for allowing me to go over their dogs. They all showed and behaved very well. Last but not least I would like to thank my steward who did an excellent job keeping everything flowing very well.
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Seen & like this dog as a pup, nice head with attractive V shaped ears set correctly, he has a nice top line and bend of stifle.
East of England Championship Show
8th Jul 2021
Judge: Mr Ian Hopper (Esyntona)
My thanks go to the East of England committee for inviting me to judge the show. Thank you to my two stewards who efficiently helped exhibitors to follow the corvid regulations in place for the show.
For quite a lot of the younger dogs it was there first show due to the lockdown they all handled it well.
All teeth were ok a few of the dogs were just spannable there was no problem with the bitches
I was pleased with my final line ups for dogs and bitches and the main winners I feel could still carry out the work they were bred for if required.
Open - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
1st Aug 2021
Judge: Mrs C Archibald (Dogs) Mrs L M Ward (Bitches) Ref Mr T Tuck
Referee’s Report:
I was asked to make the final decisions for BIS, Res BIS, BOS, and Best Veteran. It was a real pleasure to go over these quality borders.
BIS: I thought that the dog Brewster and Green’s Stowthorney Wicker Man JW, and the bitch Irving’s Dandyhow Pandora, were both eye-catching borders though quite different. The dog was very well constructed throughout, with a typical otter-like head, strong muzzle and large teeth. He had good angulation front and rear, moved well, and was in good coat. The bitch was a handy size, with an attractive outline and balanced overall proportions. She also had a thick pelt and correct coat though I think it was not yet at its best. I just favoured the dog for BIS on the strength of his head, his overall outline, and coat on the day.
Res BIS: I felt that Tuffin’s Hartswelin Veritas with Oatberry edged it over the bitch for similar reasons to those given above. He shared a lot of qualities with BIS, having a lovely outline and angulation, a good otter-like head, and an excellent coat and pelt.
BOS: Irving’s Dandyhow Pandora.
Best Veteran: Both veterans were eye-catching and typical borders, with very good coats. The dog, Jackson’s Clipstone Starshine, had a lovely head and expression, and I liked his outline and overall proportions. The bitch, Dean’s Ch Cedarhill Wish Upon a Star, had balanced proportions and she was very well constructed all through. I thought her neat front and shoulders, plus her hind angulation gave her the edge for Best Veteran.
Referee: Terence Tuck
DOGS
My sincere thanks to the MBTC for inviting me to judge the dogs at this show. Also thank you to all the exhibitors for their support. A very convivial atmosphere, it was so good to be out and about with dogs again. The weather did it's best to stay fair, ideal temperature for dog showing. I found movement still to be an issue, particularly front, also small teeth, the odd broken or missing tooth, and some dirty teeth too! Size and weight need to be addressed - some too heavy, the other end of the spectrum, needed a good feed!! Jackets at various stages, good to see some exhibits in full coat, a rarity these days. I was very happy with my winners and pleased the referee agreed in part.
BITCHES
Many thanks to the club for the invitation to judge, to the exhibitors for a nice entry and my steward Carol Smith for keeping the ring running smoothly.
As ever at this show the atmosphere was relaxed and friendly but was tinged today with poignancy by the sad loss of so many of our good friends. I must mention Dawn Bladen who has been a close friend since 1995 when we had a litter brother and sister by my dog. On principle Dawn didn’t show under me so would again have been at the ringside today with her camera. We miss them all and hope to continue to see their families and friends amongst us.
There was a noticeable diversity in both type and overall size today. My chief concern was exhibits that came very heavily to hand and often in combination with being very difficult (for a man’s hands) to span. It really needs to be addressed if we are to keep the Border “Essentially a working terrier”, as the standard lays down.
There was only one mouth with misplaced teeth and I was especially pleased to find so many otter-like heads.
Coats were generally good for texture and depth and good undercoats on thick pelts predominated. B/T jackets were especially harsh and dense and I aplaud the breeders who have achieved this huge improvement compared to the B/Ts of the 90’s.
Today tough pads were plentiful but it was a pity that feet on some exhibits appeared to be bigger and flatter than they actually were when this could be easily remedied by trimming.
Tails seem to get thinner and longer each time I judge. In this entry we have overcome the problem of kinks that was evident for some years but with the loss of the desired carroty shape and moderately short length which finishes off the typical Border outline.
Overall I was pleased to find good fitness and muscle tone plus good condition and only one that needed a good dinner and a couple that had obviously enjoyed too many.
I was very happy with my lineup and fully expect to see several going on to the higher honours which they narrowly missed out on today.
My colleague judge and I cordially agreed to disagree when it came to the final accolades (in each case having a preference for the sex we had judged) so referee Tez Tuck was kept busy to the very end with his decisions accepted with good grace by the exhibitors.
Open - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
7th Nov 2021
Judge: Frances Chapman-King (Inzievar)
It was a pleasure to spend a day with the Borders. Thank you to the committee for inviting me, and to the exhibitors for bringing their dogs. By way of general comment I found fronts and front movement to be an issue; and size variable with some too big or heavy – making it difficult to span. There was quality too and some promising youngsters.
Open - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
13th Nov 2021
Judge: Mr M Ord
Massive Thank You to The Officers & Committee for inviting me to judge your Championship Show today. This club I was a member of in the formative years and have fond memories of the very first Championship Show where I was an exhibitor. It is good to see a club go from strength to strength and the committee worked very hard to put on this event in what has been difficult times to plan ahead. Thank you everyone who entered today and I was honoured with an entry of 150 Dogs, 192 Entries & 0 NFCs. Like every show absentees were inevitable but I hope those present today took my decisions sportingly.
A few general observations on todays entry which are my thoughts and because I care so much for this lovely breed. Driving to the venue today was a perfect way to view the countryside where this breed was developed and all could see the rough terrain they would need to work in. It is essential you judge a breed with the work they were bred to do foremost in your mind and learn why they are built the way they were and why the breed standard exists. It is a dog show and we now want to see them clean, healthy and well presented but I was sad to see today several exhibits with very clear evidence of scissor work on the coats and not just on tidying feet etc. Please stop this trend NOW. Several were scissored from hip to hock, no need to do this & does nothing to enhance the dog. Good otter heads were not in abundance today and I witnessed a lot of fly away ears. We have always witnessed the odd one but today quite a number could be seen when the dog was in action & not always on youngsters either.
Coats as always were in various stages today but you must judge the dog on the day and find evidence of the correct texture and undercoat which is vital to stop the working dog getting wet through to the skin. Mouths were very good today as where tails which have thankfully improved greatly. Some exhibits in my opinion had lovely conformation however where far too big and long in leg. I though ribs were good with only a few that would be unable to be spanned with the average size hands. I did find today the bitches were more uniform for size so just need to work on the males not becoming big, leggy & heavy.
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
another I would consider for top honours, this is the desirable height of dog I look for and has the most lovely head & expression. Strong in jaw, double coat in evidence & loose pelt, effortless on the move with carrot tail well set on his none exaggerated rear. Only negative is I would prefer a narrower rib
West Midlands Terrier Society Open Show
27th Nov 2021
Judge: Gill Thomas (Sunnystone)
My thanks to the WMTS tireless committee for over riding the appalling weather and making every effort to run the show as normal. Unfortunately due to the storm there were understandably many absentees of both exhibitors & judges alike. The Border Terrier exhibitors took my standing in all in good part and I thank them for being such good sports. My thanks go of course to my indefatigable stewards Spencer Cox & Clare Robinson Cox who sailed through the process with ease and good humour as usual.
Best Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Best Of Breed
Name at show: BIS, Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Cracking grizzle and tan dog, the more I saw of him the better he got, ideal for size, construction and strength, lovely otter head with just enough stop, beautiful clean bite, flat skull correctly set ears of just the right size, neck moderate in length yet strong, formed a beautiful line from top of his head to the tip of his tail, superb coat, enough of everything without being overdone he truly deserved Best in Show as he went on to own the big ring in style. (BOB) & BIS
Crufts
11th Mar 2022
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Curtis (Matamba)
Crufts has always been a memorable experience for me, from sitting ringside to winning top honours in this breed, and to retire from judging with my last appointment being Crufts was a special occasion. Many thanks to all the exhibitors for the entry of 233 dogs making 257 entries with 28 absentees.
It was a long day and with only one steward for almost all of the classes my sincere thanks must go to Robyn Burnett. Plus a special thanks to Judy Carr for stepping in to help Robyn in those last big classes to help us finish just in time to get the BOB to the Group. Also to Joyce Martin the photographer who worked hard throughout the day to get those special pictures, thank you. I enjoyed my day judging but found some of the classes quite challenging.
I was pleased with the lineup and my principal winners, but a little disappointed with what I was finding when the dogs came to the table. The standard reads “Head like that of an otter moderately broad in skull and small ears dropping close to cheek” but some were so untypical of our breed with narrow skulls, weak jaws and small teeth, with ears that were too big and standing away from the cheek.
In every class there were some that just could not be spanned - being too deep in the chest and strong in the rib. Movement was better behind than in front. Finding dogs with a short upper arm, this not only restricts the movement but when standing almost gives a Fox Terrier type front which I was seeing, to start accepting these deviations as acceptable would be a sad day for our breed as we know it.
General condition of the dogs was good, jackets came in all stages mostly acceptable with some good thick pelts. One problem I found today was the baiting of dogs on the table. In some cases it made it hard going for dogs and judge - no need to top and tail and bait all at the same time - personally I just needed the dogs to stand still.
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Excels in breed type in every way. His head is like that of an otter with a great expression, his topline and tail set with the right amount of bone gives him an overall picture of balance, came to hand well and spanned with good coat and pelt. Moved ok.
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
26th Mar 2022
Judge: Dr. Ron Wheatley (Loiriston)
I was very privileged and honoured to judge this excellent show and would like to thank the members of the Border Terrier Club for their invitation, and the committee for their help and hospitality. The committee and members had provided a wonderful range of Specials and mementos to celebrate the Centenary of the Club. Many thanks to my very efficient ring stewards, Carol Mackenzie, and Judy Carr, for their help through a long day. Thanks also to the exhibitors for the large entry of 183 dogs, making 223 entries with 43 absent, which ranged over many types. There was quality in depth in many classes with close decisions. I found no kinky tails, two exhibits with one missing front tooth, and a few bites that had worn even. Coats as might be expected were at different stages, most in good coat and a few with the top just coming through.
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Good masculine head, with a good neck into a lovely narrow body with good angulation. Good coat and pelt.Good strong teeth and jaw. Moved well.
Manchester & District Sporting Terrier Club
17th Apr 2022
Judge: Mrs V Atkinson (Raedwulf)
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Driffield Championship Dog Show
26th Aug 2022
Judge: Mrs Anne Heathcote (Saxheath)
I would like to thank you all for allowing me to go over your dogs and also our Stewards John and Marvin for keeping everything running smoothly enabling me to finish in good time .
I have to say that I found movement in a number of classes worrying . Although most dogs looked ok in profile when viewed from the front and rear there were too many moving closely and a few flicking wrists . This was reflected in my placings with the soundest being placed highest .
Mouths were good with just one level bite but there were both dogs and bitches which I could not span . Coats were , on the whole , pretty good .
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Another lovely dog built on slightly heavier lines but with a masculine head , straight front and good angulation front and rear, lovely reach of neck , topline and tailset and moved well all ways .
Class Critique
Another lovely class where I was splitting hairs on some placings .
City of Birmingham Championship Show
3rd Sep 2022
Judge: Mrs K Newsome (Kighills)
I would like to thank the City of Birmingham committee for inviting me to judge the Border terriers today. It was a most enjoyable day and to top it off I had some quality dogs and bitches to go over. I would also like to thank the exhibitors for their entries and excepting my decisions.
The quality of borders were good and adhered to the breed standard. All mouths were good and all the dogs were entire. Heads on the whole were very good but some lacked a strong broad muzzle. The movement was good and many moved with drive. Many coats were harsh and thick and pelts were nice and loose. I would like to see some exhibitors pay a little attention to trimming the feet and nails.
It would also benefit a few exhibitors to take their young dogs to ring-craft more to socialise them. This would get them use to unfamiliar situations i.e. hands on the dog etc.
To my surprise my main winners Best Puppy Dog, 2nd Grad Bitch, Bitch CC & Bitch RCC were all related to the Glebeheath Kennels so well done to you.
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Good head with upper expression, good front and shoulders, right amount of bone, length of back and nicely muscled, level top-line and correct tail set. Lovely movement.
Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
24th Sep 2022
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Bailey (Grindelvald)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for asking me to judge the show, also making me feel so welcomed. A big thank you to my 2 stewards Tracey and Kathleen who kept me on track, also to all the exhibits and exhibitors, who gave me a lots of quality Borders to go over. I wish I had more CC’s especially in the dog classes. My concern with in the breed, is their fronts, straight shoulders, with very little angulation, which effects the front movement. All dogs had a good bite, a couple with level bite, but not a problem. All males were entire. Grooming needs to be addressed, tidying their underneath, also the feet need to be neatly trimmed and the nails cut correctly, it makes such a difference when presenting them to the Judge. 1or 2 needed ring craft classes. However, overall what a great representation of the breed. I was very pleased with my main winners.
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Much Heavier set than 1, Broad skull strong muzzle, with good expression, nice neck into well laid shoulders, in harsh double coat, moved well.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
6th May 2023
Judge: Mr Keith Baldwin (Nightstorm)
I would like to thank all the Officers and Committee of the Midland Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their club open show.
It is now 17 years that I have been judging Border Terriers and it was the 6th August 2011 that I attended the Midland Border Terrier Club breed specific seminar when Jena Tuck was the secretary.
I was very pleased with my entry of 112 quality dogs and bitches, also I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the exhibitors who entered and for allowing me to go over their dogs. They all showed and behaved very well. I can report back to you that you have overall one of the soundest breeds that I have judged.
Last but not least I would like to thank my stewards who did an excellent job keeping everything flowing smoothly between the two shows in the Margaret Everton Pavilion
Open - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
6th Aug 2023
Judge: Mr. Bob Wright (Totherend)
It was a real honour to judge my home club’s show and my thanks go to a great committee for the opportunity and the way they run the club with all hands to the wheel. Richard Wright and Sharon Pickering had my back and have my appreciation for a great day’s stewarding.
I was disappointed in the early dog classes where what initially looked like an impressive line-up failed to materialise once on the table or on the move. Movement was a weak spot for a surprisingly large number of exhibits, especially front movement. There were three poor mouths and one exhibit that couldn’t be spanned but lots of good pelts, coats and neat feet. However long tails are becoming more common and a true carrot tail is about as rare as hen’s teeth. I was fascinated by some handlers interpretation of a triangle, suffice to say it’s a good job it wasn’t a maths exam.
Once again there were only two CCs available which is a great shame when there are so many who warrant them. I can only sympathise with those who went home empty handed. It was most likely a reflection of the strength of the classes rather than their standing. The bitch classes were especially strong with at least six exhibits worthy of much more than I had available to offer. When it came to the line ups I was clearly torn and had to be really picky to get to a decision but in the end I was pleased with all the winners.
Whilst there is still much that can be done to improve some aspects of the breed there is a lot to be proud of with some really stunning exhibits out there.
Open - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
East Anglia Border Terrier Club Open Show
18th Nov 2023
Judge: Libby Tanton-Joy (Itsaso)
I would like to thank the committee for inviting me to Judge their Open show, and all exhibitors that entered. I had a lovely entry with some quality dogs to go over. All placing’s were accepted with grace. Many thanks to both my stewards who kept the ring moving. The show had a lovely atmosphere and I enjoyed my day
Best Dog
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Best In Show
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Grizzle and tan who is all male without being overdone, balanced throughout he free stands to advantage. Presented in fit hard condition, well-muscled throughout. Put down in fresh harsh coat he could not be overlooked today for his quality, he came into the ring and owned it. Beautiful typical head with strong muzzle, dark eye and varminty expression. Moderate neck which flowed into a well laid shoulder, straight front and neat cat like feet. Ribs well laid back into a strong loin and easily spanned. Good rear angulation which he used to move around the ring with drive holding his topline finished off with a short tail. Please to award him Best Dog and Best In Show.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
4th Feb 2024
Judge: Lesley Armstrong-Rodgers (Atron/Scottsway)
It was a great honour to be invited to judge The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show and therefore my thanks go to the Committee for the opportunity. I thoroughly enjoyed my day at this friendly well run show. It was advantageous in having such a good sized ring in which to watch the dogs move. Borders need room to get into their stride and show their effortless movement and profile when viewed in side gait.
A special thank you also to Richard and Sharon, my two stewards for keeping things running smoothly. It is always a great help for any judge to be blessed with competent stewards. Finally a big thank you to all the Exhibitors for bringing their dogs under me for my opinion and for accepting my decisions with good grace. As always coats were at differing stages, often reflected in the placings, but coats do come and go, construction does not !. Overall I found temperaments excellent, as well it should be, which bodes well for the breed.
Open - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Class Critique
A trio of very nice dogs.
West Midlands Terrier Society Open Show
17th Feb 2024
Judge: Mr Matt Smith (Alncroft)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Crufts
10th Mar 2024
Judge: Mrs Lesley Gosling (Akinside)
A tremendous entry of 275 Borders ( 25 absentees on the day)to enjoy handling, judging and placing. I must extend my appreciation to my two valiant stewards for their patience and skill in keeping classes moving. Thank you all.
I do believe our breed is changing, but in subtle ways. The lack of opportunities for true terrier work below ground for some Borders has been replaced by agility and other energetic pursuits, but lack of hard muscle tone has produced a ‘softer’ body on some exhibits. Some feet are slacker, pads are more spread and thinner and some fronts are wide. Movement is not always positive and a ‘driving’ action is lacking. Size is fluctuating too. We have a ‘working’ breed - let’s ensure that features defining the breed are not lost, i.e. ‘spannability’; a hard, harsh top coat and soft protective undercoat (not enough of those today); a dark, expressive eye, a broad skull and strong quarters – ‘the engine is at the back!’. Heads generally were good, but some bitch heads veered towards coarseness.
One thing not lost is the Border’s kind temperament – curious, interested and ready for anything.
RDCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Another male with good conformation, great angulation and plenty of drive on the move. Tight thick coat and pliant pelt. Small neat feet with thick pads. A spannable body. Good head and expression. RDCC.
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
30th Mar 2024
Judge: Mrs Lynda Ward (Roundtown)
It was an honour to be invited to judge this, our parent club’s show. My thanks to the committee who ran such a lovely event with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. My judge’s gift is much appreciated and will be a treasured momento of the day.
My superstar stewards, Janice Johnson and Liz Barrett, worked hard and unobtrusively whilst keeping the classes moving smoothly over a long day – well done ladies.
Many thanks of course to the exhibitors who made the journey on a major bank holiday weekend giving a large and quality entry of 190 dogs making 229 entries plus 10 NFC.
I had some lovely sound and typical Borders to go over and, had I had them, I would have had no qualms in awarding 4 dog tickets and 5 bitch tickets.
Unfortunately there are always downsides in a big entry and today size was an issue with some overly large exhibits who were not spannable and very heavily built.
There were a number of youngsters which were obviously unused to having their mouths examined and more practice in a calm atmosphere would help to make them comfortable and avoid stress for them and their handlers.
Ears need watching as some were quite large and spoiled the head.
Sadly, as in the past I must complain about long tails. Tails are an integral aspect of the overall picture of a typical Border outline and long is simply wrong. Our breed standard is spartan compared to many others but for tails the description is clear and begins with, “Moderately short; fairly thick at base, then tapering.” Hopefully the issue will be addressed before the untypical becomes the norm.
On a positive note …
Feet were overall small and thickly padded although some would benefit from trimming and shorter nails.
There was a good number of lovely otter-like heads of correct proportions with well placed dark eyes and a keen expression.
As is usual these days coat presentation was generally good and today there were plenty of dense coats of correct texture and thick skins.
Do I think the quality shown in this entry bodes well for the breed? Yes.
DCC
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Best In Show
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cedarhill Melt In The Mouth
Placing Critique
Typical from nose to tail this dog shouts Border loud and clear. Lovely otter-like head with dark eye and well-placed ears. Of sensible size and soundly constructed with balanced angulation. He is easy to span and comes to hand well. Moves with ease and economy with topline held. Ribs are well back, coat is harsh and skin is thick. I didn’t know him but loved him on sight so was delighted to find this was his third ticket. DCC and BIS
