The Border Terrier Club Open Show (24-02-2018)

First Place in Minor Puppy - Dog, Judge: Mrs Jill Stevens (Cobstoneway)

Show Critique:

I would like to thank the committee for giving me the honour of judging at this lovely show, and for the warm welcome and hospitality shown on the day. Special thanks go to the Show Secretary Kathy Wilkinson, my two efficient stewards Liz Barrett and Judy Carr, and Carol Mackenzie for a lovely lunch. Most of all I would like to say a very big thank you to all the exhibitors for giving me such a lovely entry, and for allowing me the privilege of going over their dogs. The depth of quality in some classes, particularly the bitches, meant that I truly wished for more top places to give out. However, I was very pleased with my main winners, who all looked as though they could manage a day’s work. Most exhibits were in hard, fit condition and well turned out. All dogs were entire, I found just a couple of kinked tails, and, understandably, there were a few missing/misplaced teeth in the veteran class. Coats were at various stages, as to be expected, and this had to affect a few places as it is not only a necessity on a working terrier, but completes the picture. I was pleased to have some very promising puppies, and at the other end of the scale a wonderful class of veterans.

Placing Critique:

Eight and a half month old grizzle and tan dog, who I loved for size and type. He has a good masculine head with flat skull, very little stop, strong jaw and big teeth in a perfect scissor bite. He is narrow throughout, easily spanned, has a straight front, well constructed narrow shoulders, and is ribbed well back. He has a correct double coat with loose pelt and harsh topcoat, and stands on neat, well padded feet. Good angulation fore and aft allowed him to move well for one so young, with plenty of confidence and enthusiasm. Stood alone but a very worthy winner. Best Puppy Dog