Show Placings
National Terrier Club
5th Apr 2014
Judge: Mr David Hunt (Ottaswell)
My thanks to the committee of the National Terrier Club for their invitation to judge at this group championship show. Thanks also to my stewards Brian Doyle and John Callow for their help and assistance in keeping me organised and the ring running smoothly. My appreciation also to the exhibitors for such a large entry in these tough financial times.
The ring was large with lots of space for dogs to move freely without being forced to stop/start. In general the dogs were in good condition. I found 1 dog that was not entire. Although teeth were mostly OK, apart from a few misaligned, they varied greatly in size. Coats varied as always but I judge on the day and lack of coat is taken into account when placing exhibits. I was concerned at the number of exhibits down on their pasterns, not giving the small feet as required. Many younger exhibits would really benefit from regular ringcraft experience.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
Just 6 months this light grizzle was at her first show. Well schooled for one so young. Neat head with well placed eyes and correct bite. Everything as it should be at this age. Narrow straight front, good ribs, carried well back. Well angulated both ends. Coat approaching its best. Moved extremely well for one so young. One to watch.
East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
13th Apr 2014
Judge: Professor A S Milton (Baillieswells)
It was a great pleasure to judge my own club’s championship show. The venue is excellent, and I was able to experience this from the judge’s side of the table. The show was run very smoothly, and I was particular grateful to Beverley Jackson who, as chief steward, saw that everything was in the right place at the right time. I was pleased with my class winners, though some of the lower placing were a little problematic. As one would expect at this time of the year, with a few exceptions, coats were excellent. I seem to go on about movement every time I judge. I was pleased to note that wide fronts were fewer than before, however we seem to be going in the opposite direction,, with front paws nearly touching on the move. In my opinion the top-line should either be level or slightly sloping downwards to the hind legs. There were several exhibits in which the slope was the other way, with the top of the hind legs above the front legs. This is a wrong. There were several tails that were far too long. There was only one really bad mouth, the dog in question should not in my opinion be shown, and a couple with an incisor out of alignment. And that raises a question. The first line of the standard states ‘Essentially a working terrier’. Does a minor tooth misalignment affect the ability of the dog to work? Any judge can see a fault in the mouth and penalize it, and yet miss other faults which can indeed affect the working ability. Similarly how important are missing teeth? Many a Border has one or more of the first premolars missing or not properly erupted. The standard makes no mention of teeth other than in the context of a scissor bite. At least we are not obsessed with counting teeth as are the Germans.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
Super little bitch, with plenty of promise. Attractive head with good reach of neck. Nice topline. Excellent coat.
Chertsey & District Canine Society Open Show
18th Apr 2014
Judge: Mrs Penny Sands (Krakenexis)
Puppy /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
West Of England Ladies' Kennel Society
25th Apr 2014
Judge: Mr A Cuthbertson (Ashbrae)
Thank you to the exhibitors for their entries and to my two stewards.
I think size needs to be watched in the breed as a working terrier. I have a large span but a number of dogs were not spannable by me, this reflected in my placings. We also seem to loosing the otter like head, some with too much stop, some with weak muzzles and others lacking under jaw. This results in a loss of type which defines the breed. We should try and adhere to the breed standard laid down by the original border terrier breeders.
The over baiting of dogs on the table is totally unnecessary. In my opinion they do not need to be constantly fed on the table. It makes judging difficult when a dog is constantly looking for food.
I was very surprised to see border terriers with coats on around the ring, as they should have their own double coat for warmth and protection. I hope this isn’t the start of trend with the breed becoming just another show breed and losing its identity as the standard states “essentially a working terrier”.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
Attractive red with good ring presence for her age. Typical head with neat ears and good eye. Coat of good texture. Nice size and moved out well.
The Joint Border Terrier Clubs Championship Show
4th May 2014
Judge: Mrs E Weijenborg-Weggemans
What a big honour it is to judge the Border Terrier in the native country. I didn’t know what to expect because I haven’t been to Crufts or other shows to have a clean look at what I was presented on that May, 4th, 2014.
I myself live with Border Terriers most of my life now and I have seen the breed changing through the years. What the old breeders feared for years and years ago seems to happen: changing a working terrier into a show terrier. Meaning that the trimming is too short therefore missing the tweedy look, clipping belly, tail and buttocks, overangulation especially in hindquarters. Saying this I was really pleasantly surprised finding so many genuine Border Terriers during this show. Of course I know that coats can’t be in the best condition all year long so some specimens were rather short in trim but as long as I could feel the required harshness and see the correct double coat it was fine for me and only played a role in placing when there were more Borders with the same qualities. I didn’t see any faulty mouths, found only big strong teeth. Movement is – as in the rest of the world – still a problem in the breed. Especially front movement is an issue. When placing, movement was one of the criteria to place one Border higher than the other, but the right type, body proportions, spannability, thick pliable pelt and harsh double coat came first.
In some classes the quality was so high that some of the Borders left the ring unplaced while they were of excellent quality.
I really want to thank all the exhibitors for their sporting attitude in taking my decisions, for entering their dogs under me and give me a hard day’s work with 222 entered dogs and of course the committee for trusting me this honourable job and their hospitality during this weekend for me and my sister, who accompanied me. My congratulations to the breeders and owners for presenting such nice Border Terriers and keeping the breed on such high standard.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Class Critique
A lovely class of youngsters. Which is a promise for the future. My winner in this class is still very young but has all the features I like and moved like a dream till the very end. The others were unfortunate to meet her in this class because they were of a high quality too.
Novice - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
National Dog Show
9th May 2014
Judge: Mr Rainer Vuorinen (Finland)
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
Lovely puppy, excellent puppy head, lovely expression, correct narrow front, pleasing topline and tail, looks excellent on the move, so promising.
Novice - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
Well proportioned bitch, very lovely head, topling and brisket, well angulated, moving well.
The Scottish Kennel Club
16th May 2014
Judge: Mr W Browne-Cole (Travella)
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
Very promising youngster with all the qualities to do very well, just needs to settle a little, but that should come with time
Novice - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Devon County Show
22nd May 2014
Judge: Mr Tan Nagrecha (Chandlimore)
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG3, Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Bath Championship Show
23rd May 2014
Judge: Mr S Plane
Thankyou to the exhibitors for giving me such a good entry for the first time awarding challenge certificates. Although we had a super sized ring with short grass and level surface, the weather prevented us from using the outer part in some classes. Most of the exhibits were undeterred by the rain and dampness
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Southern Counties Canine Association
31st May 2014
Judge: Mr Terry Cooper
Firstly I would like to thank my able stewards for making my day of judging so enjoyable, they did a first class job in the process and my compliments go to them both. Secondly I thank the exhibitors for bringing some fine examples of the breed under me. In a few classes I was splitting hairs with a number of exhibits and on another day they would change places many times. I was very happy with my final line up of dogs and bitches, they were all of excellent quality and worthy of winning top honours.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
G/t. Moved steadily for one so young. Good in head and body lines and handled well.
Three Counties Championship Dog Show
7th Jun 2014
Judge: Mr D E Fryer (Irton)
Thanks to my two highly efficient stewards who, whilst never obtrusive, always had everything in the right place and ensured that I could get on with judging the dogs efficiently and smoothly.
A very pleasing entry, many classes had winning quality beyond the number of cards available. I found no missing teeth, no serious mouth faults, and all males were entire. Coats were variable; ranging from several in profuse double coat (not a problem if still of good weatherproof quality); to some who had only undercoat and a few who had adequate top coat but completely lacked undercoat (both incorrect and adversely affecting placings). There were a number of very smartly prepared and presented terriers on show; but however smart and showy a terrier may be, as 'essentially a working terrier' it must be 'capable of following a horse, combining activity with gameness' in order to be a BORDER Terrier. Too many exhibits were deficient in shoulder construction, front movement and drive.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
Lighter weight bitch, needs to mature and tighten in front
Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
14th Jun 2014
Judge: Mrs Wendy Mooney (Chesterton)
Congratulations to the committee of the Southern Border Terrier Club for running an excellent show at a new venue under extreme circumstances. Due to a nasty virus the appointed judge, Mrs Betty Judge, was taken ill the day before and was not well enough to carry out her duties. I know that she was absolutely devastated and had been looking forward to the appointment for a long time.
Faced with such an emergency, show manager, Mr David Hunt managed the situation with complete calm and professionalism. I was both honoured and shocked to be invited to step in to judge and here, I must say a huge thank you to the committee for asking me but in particular to the exhibitors who had entered under and were expecting another judge and took the situation so sportingly.
I am grateful to everyone who accepted my decisions and placings so graciously and to my great team of stewards: Andrew Mooney, Elspeth Jackson and Bev Marsh, who kept everything running smoothly and between them managed to multi-task and juggle photographs, collecting ring, announcing, paperwork awards etc etc.
And so to the dogs themselves – there were some superb entries and it was an absolute pleasure to go over and place them. Some of the classes were so strong that even good dogs didn’t get placed.
Coats and presentation were generally excellent - something, which was not so apparent the last time I judged. This I put down principally to the time of year (for both shows).
Movement today seemed in many of the dogs to be lacking the drive that I would have wished for. In part, I think the surface may have been to blame (but not in all instances) and had we been outside on the grass this might have been different. I do slightly regret that I did not decide to judge the dogs outside.
Mouths were good in all but one (suspect) case, as were the temperaments. Size I think will need to be kept in check, there seemed to be a fair number who seemed to be heavy enough, others who were too deep to be easily spanned.
I was so thrilled with my “stars” of the show. It was a pleasure to judge all of your dogs; they were a lovely, quality entry.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
Another sweet youngster, full of promise. Moved and showed really well. Lovely rich red grizzle colour with a sweet head and expression. Preferred coat and pelt of 1.
Novice - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Class Critique
This was not your typical novice class, full of first class bitches. I was spoilt for choice
Blackpool & District Canine Society Championship Show
20th Jun 2014
Judge: Mr Peter Bakewell
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
Feminine head, neat ears, good expression, straight front, good quarters fore and aft, nicely made body, moved well.
Windsor Championship Show
27th Jun 2014
Judge: Mr S Jackson (Clipstone)
Very sorry for the late publication of this report. Unfortunately the original was on a device that was stolen. It was an honour again to judge Windsor which is one of my personal favourite shows, and also my local!
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
Another one to watch. Very pretty and pleasing head and expression. Good ribs and length of back. Sound mover.
Novice - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
East of England Championship Show
6th Jul 2014
Judge: Miss Jean Singh
I would like to thank my stewards who kept the event running smoothly. My decisions were made on the exhibit on the day
I found heavy ears are creeping in, detracting from the otter head and keen expression. An excessive amount of exhibits were not in hard, toned condition. ‘Couch potato’ dogs come to mind. Front movement is also a cause for concern. I found two level mouths, one just level and a puppy , had a tooth out of line. My decision on some unplaced exhibits were a culmination of a long foreface and untypical expression, unspannable even though I gave some leeway and poor front movement.
Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Stithians Agricultural Show
14th Jul 2014
Judge: Mr Alan Jenkins
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG1, Tarkaswell Doctor
Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Leeds Championship Show
26th Jul 2014
Judge: Mr Ernie L Hill
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
10 month old, light grizzle, good head, dark eye, narrow, straight front, nice ribcage, well angulated hindquarters, moved well both ways.
Paignton & DFA Championship Show
2nd Aug 2014
Judge: Mr T Johnston
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
feminine head with good eye & ears, good neck & quality bone, good depth & rib, good loin & presented in good harsh coat, racy in rear & covered ground well
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
3rd Aug 2014
Judge: Bainbridge & Dandy
*Dogs*
Many thanks to the Midland Committee for this appointment and to all those especially the stewards who made for an enjoyable day. The entry in general reflected the type the exhibitors by now know I like. However there were a number up to size and exhibiting poor front angulation and short deep ribs and paid the price. I was looking for dogs with a typical otter head straight narrow front well laid shoulders ribbed back spannable and racey rear quarters with thick pelt in harsh double coat all of which we should be looking for in the ideal Border Terrier that is essentially a working terrier.
I was very pleased with my winners overall and had good depth of quality in the limit and open classes that generally displayed the above attributes.
The dog CC and ultimately BIS Ch Olderhill Afortunado is the ideal border terrier that shows with confidence and has class. He has a good border head of otter type strong jaw with keen expression on strong neck set into well laid shoulders ,narrow ribs carried back ,ideal length strong loin and the desired rear quarters ,shown in double coat and top condition moved with drive to cover the ground. Pleased my co-judge agreed this boys qualities worthy of BIS.
The RCC Tythrop Timepiece this excellent blue and tan displayed similar qualities to the above and with his good turn of stifle and short hocks and tight feet moved so well and with top presentation took this award over the quality 2nd in Open and Limit winner and with time maturity should complete the picture.
The Bitch CC winner and BOS,RBIS Ploughdown Placida is a top quality exhibit but for me just not the strength in loin of the dog but a close decision .
*Judge: John Bainbridge*
*Bitches*
A great honour to judge bitches at this breed club show, my grateful thanks to the Midland Border Terrier Club for their warm and friendly hospitality and to my two competent and hardworking stewards. I had a most enjoyable day and was delighted that my final line-up comprised of excellent and true to type examples of the breed, with some really promising youngsters amongst them. It is always foremost in my mind when judging this breed that it is essential that the dog’s conformation and movement should demonstrate its capability to work and follow a horse. I found this a challenge today, rather too many exhibits failing to demonstrate free ground covering movement or any length of stride to ‘follow a horse’: with weak pasterns resulting in uneconomic paddling action and poor reach; and sickle hocks impairing effective drive. I was also struck by the number of short ribs and untypical ‘cut up’ underlines. On a positive note temperaments were uniformly sound which is of great importance, although I felt numerous exhibits were neither ‘active’ nor ‘game’ in their demeanour. I was delighted to co-judge BIS with John Bainbridge and pleased that we agreed on all of our joint decisions today.
*Judge: Sarah Dandy*
Best Puppy - Bitch
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Best Puppy
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
Well-made feminine grizzle bitch who took my eye with her clean balanced outline. Attractive head with a reach of neck into well-defined clean wither. Moderate and really balanced in outline with well angulated quarters, correct topline croup and tailset matched by equally good underline, ribbed back with good length and firm loin. Good bone, feet and hocks. Makes a pleasing picture, striding out in profile with reach & drive holding her topline well on the move. Handles well, in fit order with good coat and pelt. Best Puppy Bitch & Best Puppy In Show.
Bournemouth CA Championship Show
10th Aug 2014
Judge: Mrs M Reeves (Baywillow)
A very enjoyable appointment in spite of the wind and rain. I found some lovely borders for the top awards. The line up for the bitch challenge was especially pleasing, each one of top quality with some very promising youngsters. On the minus side there were too many that were wide in front. This is a serious fault in a breed who need to get through narrow spaces underground. Whilst I am always critical of dogs that lack rear angulation there are one or two appearing in the breed who are over angulated which is not correct for a border.
Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Welsh Kennel Club
16th Aug 2014
Judge: Mr A E Small (Bethane)
Thanks for a lovely entry, sorry for the delay but I could not be in both my breeds rings at the same time! It was nice to be outside at WKC, which hasn't happened for 9 years. Thanks to the Committee for the invite & looking after us, I really enjoyed my day.
Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Novice - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
pleasing youngster, 3rd in puppy, neat & well presented, good front, nice over all, went well.
Scottish Kennel Club
23rd Aug 2014
Judge: Mr Eddie Houston (Earthwise)
My first appointment at this level. My thanks to the society for inviting me and to my two very efficient stewards, Lorrraine and Barbara, who kept things moving.
I was very pleased with both my line ups and feel that my main winners were excellent examples of the breed. Many dogs were sporting dense, tweedy jackets but, as is always the case, some were lacking in coat and this did influence some of the placings. Mouths were good and only one dog was unspannable. On the downside, size is an issue and some of the minor puppies are already up to size. Front movement could be better in a number of exhibits and a few were carrying too much weight.
My sincere thanks to all those who entered and afforded me the privilege of going over their dogs.
Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Novice - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
Grizzle.Smart puppy with good bodylines.Correct coat,easily spanned and sound on the move.Feminine head which needs time to develop.
Richmond Championship Dog Show
6th Sep 2014
Judge: Mr W Gray (Pontbeck)
Thanks go to my stewards for making the day run smoothly and to the exhibitors for their enthusiasm for the breed and the sporting way they took my decisions.
Since the hunting bill I 've been concerned how the breed would keep to the line in the breed standard " Essentially a working terrier " as the opportunities for work have been reduced and the spin off as to why we require a double coat and the dog to be narrow all through may be lost to some exhibitors who haven't the opportunity to work or know someone who does or has worked their dogs. There was evidence today that we may have lost sight of the fact that this is a working breed. I'm not suggesting that all Borders should work but that all Borders should be capable to work and those who are closest to the breed standard should be able to do the job required of them.
There were a few exhibits with single coats today, look very smart but would soon pay the price on a cold wet winters day if they had to be out in the elements for any length of time. Some exhibits were carrying a little too much weight and quite a number would benefit from a good walk, some with little muscle.
Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Darlington Championship Show
12th Sep 2014
Judge: Mr A Horner (Stineval)
I would like to thank the Darlington society for my invitation .The stewards were on the ball all day so I would like to thank them for making my day an easy one.
I would also like to thank the exhibitors for taking my decisions so sportingly.
However I feel that some exhibits would benefit from a little more food, feeding less does not make them any smaller!
One thing that particularly drew my attention was the dirty teeth in some of the younger exhibits, feet need improving by trimming nails. Nails on some were what a Hawk would be proud of!
Also scissor cuts do not enhance a coat , we are not a trimmed breed we are a breed where hand stripping is paramount.
Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
Good expression, straight front and good in shoulder , enough bone, nice tight feet , good topline and body, moved well, just preferred the more feminine expression of one.
Driffield Agricultural Society Championship Dog Show
20th Sep 2014
Judge: Mrs A C Fryer (Irton)
Thanks to the exhibitors for giving me a lovely entry and to my stewards for keeping the ring running efficiently throughout. We had a good day with a very very slight drizzle; the exhibitors and exhibits seemed untroubled but it did cause the ringside to flee temporarily! There were some very good dogs present and I enjoyed all my winners but there are always some buts, and looking through my notes there was a preponderonce of “OK” over “good”. The standard asks for a dog that has the soundness to follow a horse; this, of course, must be understood in the context of a terrier working with the Hunt on rough moorland ground, but even so only the minority of exhibits could meet this requirement. Inadequate angulation leads to poor ground covering ability and untidy front movement – evident in a lot of exhibits. Whilst most exhibitors take the trouble to present their dogs as well as possible, a number were unfit and lacking muscle tone and would one of the Breed Clubs please put on a grooming seminar which shows exhibitors how to prepare feet and nails?? It is clearly needed. I forgive coats since these are outwith your control and sadly some excellent dogs had to pay the price for coming without a jacket.
Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders
Placing Critique
Very similar type to 1 but not so strong in head, a bigger bitch, good neck and shoulder, good feet, good for bone, nicely angulated behind, a bit longer in back and on the move not quite so steady in front.
Class Critique
A good class with some very nice types but a few were rather unsettled.
South Wales Kennel Association
10th Oct 2014
Judge: Mr Kevin Holmes
Junior - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Midland Counties Canine Society
25th Oct 2014
Judge: Mr Euan Castel (Flutorum)
My sincere thanks are extended to each exhibitor for providing me with such a wonderful entry, on this, my 1st CC appointment. At 160 dogs I had the highest entry in the group. I would like to thank the committee for their kind invitation and the hospitality that I received. Thank you to my two very competent stewards Alex & Barry Cole.
Mouths were good, a couple were unspannable and coats varied. Some exhibits were untidy in undercarriage, legs and feet and would benefit from a little grooming a few days prior to show day. More importantly, a number of exhibits were overweight and lacked muscle tone. That said, there was a depth of quality to each class and a number of nice dogs had to go unplaced on this occasion. I was extremely pleased with both the dog and bitch line ups.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Well presented grizzle and tan, nice type, feminine head and expression, nice body lines, good rear angulation. Sound movement. Harsh jacket and loose pelt.
Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
8th Nov 2014
Judge: Mrs P McLellan (Breconbeds)
My thanks to the Scottish Committee for the invitation to judge our prestigious annual Championship Show; to my excellent steward Joyce Orr, and to the exhibitors for such a good entry.
I was happy with my class winners which were super examples of the breed. On the down side a number of exhibits were short in the leg and in the body, giving an unbalanced appearance and it’s very unlikely that they would be capable of following a horse, as the breed standard requires. Some pelts were too thin and too many dogs were single coated.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Another nice bitch of good size, with harsh coat and thick pelt. Good head and expression she moved out with drive.
Ladies Kennel Association
14th Dec 2014
Judge: Mr David G Winsley (Davmar)
Though the standard calls for a narrow body I found many dogs who were too skinny & I could easily feel their ribs! Heads were quite disappointing, many had long weak muzzles not the proportions one associates with an Otters head. Many exhibits lack the small round foot & I doubt if they would cope with the exercise it needs to follow a horse. Coats were mixed & many just a seasonal problem.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
another nice bitch, lost out to 1 on head. Good in neck & shoulders, straight front. Good in outline & nicely made body. Very nice backend, good turn of stifle with plenty of power. Quality coat with a good pelt. Moved soundly & shows well
Boston & District Canine Society
11th Jan 2015
Judge: Mrs Julie Guvercin
Thank you to all exhibitors for your entries I had a good cross section of dogs to choose from. Some dogs that I have admired in the past were either not in coat or didn’t move well and others that I've not noticed before, were 'found ' on the table. We must all remember judging should be on the day and not on what something has won or not won, beforehand. I'm sure the same dogs could be placed differently on another day under me, some that did or didn't perform affected their placings accordingly.
Some super puppies coming through, with all four of my puppy class winners looking very promising. They gave me some hair splitting decisions.
Junior - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Manchester Championship Show
15th Jan 2015
Judge: Miss Anita Harrison (Iacheslei)
This was my first Championship Show appointment and I would like to thank the Society for the invitation and generous hospitality. Thanks also to my stewards Brian Attwood and Anne Speake who did a sterling job keeping the good sized, well appointed ring running smoothly throughout the day. Thanks also to the exhibitors for allowing me to go over some very high quality dogs. Generally the standard was good with the majority of exhibits showing and moving well. I was concerned by the number of short rounded ribs I found, especially in the bitch classes. There were several noses lacking pigment, some very long thin tails, and I found a few broken or out of line teeth. Coats were at various stages and some otherwise good dogs had to be penalised for lack of coat in the stronger classes. Whereas others with little coat made it into the line up on overall quality. I was very pleased with my main winners, and thank the exhibitors for accepting my decisions in a sporting manner.
RBCC
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Attractive 15 month grizzle bitch of nice size with feminine head and good reach of neck, well laid shoulder, good bone with small neat feet, good length of rib and firm loin with good tail and tail set, correct underline, well angulated quarters, moved well with reach and drive. Presented in excellent order with good coat and pelt. Res Bitch CC.
Cheltenham & District Canine Society
8th Feb 2015
Judge: Mrs Tina Jones (Otterholme)
I would like to thank the committee for the invitation to judge at this well run show. My thanks to my steward for keeping things running smoothly and to the exhibitors who entered their borders under me and the sporting manner they accepted my decisions on the day. We had a lovely big ring which I made full use of. Coats were mixed as to be expected, pleasing to find all exhibits of correct size and spannable. Some quality exhibits making for difficult decisions.
Yearling /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
another quality bitch, excellent size, feminine head, and pleasing outline moved with drive, well presented.
Plymouth & District Canine Society
14th Feb 2015
Judge: Mr Frank H Whyte
Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Gloucester and District Canine Society
21st Feb 2015
Judge: Mr Brian Atwell (Xnawll)
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Swindon & District CS
28th Feb 2015
Judge: Mrs Jill Stevens (Cobstoneway)
Thank you to the show committee for inviting me to judge at this friendly, well run show, and also to my efficient steward, and to the exhibitors who entered their dogs and accepted my decisions in a sporting manner. I found no kinked tails and all males were entire.
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
16 month grizzle and tan bitch with a good head, nice earset, keen expression and correct bite. Good reach of neck into nice shoulders. Good for bone, with small, neat feet. Thick double coat and good pelt, and level topline both standing and on the move. Super show girl, and moved well. RBOB
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
28th Mar 2015
Judge: Mr. Carl-Gunnar Stafberg (Bombax) Sweden
I will thank the club and the show committee for inviting me to judge this prestigious show, I feel very honoured to be invited. I really enjoyed my day and was very pleased with huge entries. My winner was really top quality border terriers, excelling in type and heads. The overall quality was very good, but I hoped to see more quality in the younger classes. Size was ok, coats in different stages because of the time of year. It was about 40 years since I judged my first CCshow in England and I still enjoy it so much. My stewards did a fantastic job on the day, keeping both me and the dogs in order. They make it running very smooth and efficient, thank you!!!
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Very nice head and expression, nice proportions of body, excellent coat and moves very well
National Terrier
4th Apr 2015
Judge: Mr W Shorthose (Cundytyke)
Overall, I felt there was reasonable quality in those forward. Some exhibitors continue to have their dogs underfed and/or carrying little muscle, both to the detriment of a terrier expected to put in a day’s work. There were a number of untypical heads – lacking width to the skull and strength to the muzzle. Please keep in mind the shape of an otter’s skull.
I was very pleased with my top winners and extend my thanks to all the exhibitors.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Very well balanced with no exaggeration. Pleasing head and ear with feminine neck. Deep enough in chest but free in the shoulder. Well angulated hindquarters and moved true, with drive, strode out well and tracked up.
The East Anglian Border Terrier Club Championship Show
12th Apr 2015
Judge: Mr Graham Pickering (Picer)
I would like to thank the East Anglian Border Terrier Club for their kind invitation to judge their 2015 Championship Show. It was both an honour and a pleasure to accept this appointment. Thank you to the committee for their hospitality, and special acknowledgement to Bev, Laurence and Zoe Jackson for their efficient stewarding and keeping everything running smoothly throughout the day.
I terms of exhibits, there were many difficult decisions during the day and some real quality dogs were left unplaced. In general, the quality was very good and the majority of dogs were spannable and I only saw one example of an incorrect bite. All dogs were entire and as is usual some coats were exceptional whilst others were either just coming in or past their best.
There were a few examples of heads that are untypical of the breed, in that they lack strength of foreface, width of skull and have eyes that are too close together – these are not what I would describe as ‘like that of an otter’.
On a more positive note I was very happy with all my winners, believing them to be excellent examples of the breed and would like to say thank you to all exhibitors for allowing me the honour of judging their dogs
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
A nice feminine grizzle bitch. A good head with dark eye and keen expression. A narrow front, up on her toes. Shown in good condition, with plenty of muscle, well-shaped rib and level top line. Good bend of stifle, moved well. Lost out on coat today.
National Dog Show
9th May 2015
Judge: Mr John Dace (Cassacane)
I must begin by saying a very sincere thanks to the Kennel Club and the officers and committee of the Birmingham Dog Show Society Ltd for giving me this most prestigious appointment to award Challenge Certificates for the first time.
Also again sincere thanks to the exhibitors for their splendid entry and acceptance of my decisions on the day, and to my very efficient Stewards who ensured that classes moved along which helped in a timely finish.
On reflection of the exhibits I found that teeth and mouths were very good on the whole, feet were variable as was movement. Temperaments were good. All dogs were entire. My main concerns were in the condition of some exhibits who could have been fitter and harder in muscle tone but where has the consistent “head like that of an otter” gone? The variance in head shape and therefore expression was quite evident. I was pleased with my final awards and again many thanks to everyone for making this one of my most memorable days.
The depth of quality particularly in the bitches bodes well for the breed in the future but as already mentioned concentration on heads to achieve the “head like that of an otter” should be one of the paramount objectives.
Graduate - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Scottish Kennel Club
16th May 2015
Judge: Mr Paul Wilkinson
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Bath Canine Society
22nd May 2015
Judge: Mr Jack Watson
Graduate - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Southern Counties Canine Association
30th May 2015
Judge: Mrs Lesley Gosling (Akinside)
I must first extend thanks to my very professional and able stewards, who kept me on track and on time.
My general remarks here cover the real concerns I have about the way the breed is heading currently. Increasingly, upright shoulders and poor fronts are becoming the norm rather than the exception. Upright shoulders may produce a flashy show dog on its toes, but Borders are not flashy by nature. I suspect I have referred to this problem in every critique I have written for Championship shows I’ve judged and it appears to be getting worse, not better. Please read the standard carefully; look at anatomical drawings of the dog skeleton. Shoulders are now at a steep 60 degrees on some exhibits instead of the normal – and correct – 45 degrees. Undercoats are being raked out to give a cleaner profile – why? Borders – working terriers – need their undercoats 24/7 to keep them warm in bad winter weather while they are waiting to be called for action. It is a requirement of the standard, not a fashion statement. Sooner or later we will end up with a single coated breed, and to its detriment.
Judging today, temperaments were very good; I found two kinked tails, several minor dentition issues, many dirty teeth and one undershot mouth. Males were all entire. Coats were mostly betwixt and between but the good double coats were exceptionally good. I love to see happy dogs with wagging tails but some dogs were very lack lustre and did not seem to be enjoying their day. There were also one or two exhibits too thin and lacking in condition. Finally, baiting is still a contentious topic for me – I use bait sometimes myself – but on occasions it was almost impossible to get at the dogs or examine them without getting round, over, or under an outstretched arm with bait. As a courtesy to judges, please keep baiting to a minimum, especially on the table.
Thank you to everyone for accepting my decisions sportingly. It was a genuine pleasure to go over the entry – winners and non-winners.
Yearling - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Class Critique
The two winners ‘flowed’ round the show ring in this class. A memorable sight for lovers of BTs. Impossible to achieve if construction on either was faulty.
Three Counties Agricultural Society
4th Jun 2015
Judge: Mr Brian Baxter
Yearling - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Border Union Agricultural Society
20th Jun 2015
Judge: Mrs Nancy Hogg (Raeburnfoot)
I thoroughly enjoyed my days judging at Border Union showground. Such a pleasant show. Many thanks go to my two very able stewards. They had the ring (& me) running like clockwork. Thanks also to the exhibitors who entered under me. Had some lovely dogs to go over & some hard decisions to make. Coats were probably the best I have seen for some time. Thick pelts, too, were much in evidence. Mouths were good. Fronts continue to be a problem & movement letting some otherwise promising dogs down.
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
close decision with 1. Very feminine. Good head with dark eye & pleasing expression. Another who excels in topline & tailset. Straight, narrow front. Narrow all through. Spans well. Moved soundly
Blackpool & District Canine Society
26th Jun 2015
Judge: Mr. Ian Higham (Comberdown)
I had been looking forward immensely to judging my first UK championship show. I sincerely thank the Blackpool and District Canine Society for the invite and also thank my two friendly, competent and helpful stewards, Mandy and Robert Geary for keeping everything right.
I would also give my deepest gratitude to those who exhibited under me for trusting my knowledge of the breed and my integrity to judge without fear or favour and further thank them for following my lead to stay in the outside ring through the numerous showers that were on and off all day. I feel privileged that you brought your dogs to me for my opinion.
As usual I was looking for Borders that had all the good breed type points as laid out in our standard, combined with correct physical construction to be able to cover the ground well.
I had no dirty or smelly dogs and only two or three of them could have done with having their teeth brushed so I can commend you all for that. I had only one dog that was slightly undershot and I found no tail deformities at all, which is excellent.
I found a variety of movement problems. But it has to be said that in general, movement seemed to have improved since I last judged the breed. I noticed a few more Borders with lighter colouring to their noses since I last judged, but, as instructed by our standard, I treated this as not a serious fault.
As often heard said, the term “on the day” always applies. I had to give my awards to the dogs that stood out on this day. So for those who may be a little disappointed, remember that on another occasion your dog could well have a better coat stage, move a little more positively or be more “on its toes.” Do not be disheartened and enjoy your showing and your dogs!
Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Well-coated G&T bitch. Feminine head with good dark eye and v-shaped ears dropping forward to the cheek. Correct bite and strong muzzle. She moved well holding a level top line and correct high tail set. She was easily spanned.
East of England Agricultural Society
10th Jul 2015
Judge: Miss Sally Leslie (Risdene)
Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Class Critique
Pleasing class.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
18th Jul 2015
Judge: Mrs Hilary Gilpin (Otterbobs)
Thank you to the officers, committee and members for voting for me to judge their Championship show 2015.
My stewards were just perfect, even the couple of birds flying around enjoyed the day.
As you know it's all too easy to judge from the ringside but when you are in the ring judging dogs of varying sizes, heads, coats etc, I felt I did the best I could with the exhibits shown.
All dogs were entire, mouths were correct and teeth were of good size and clean apart from one level bite which is acceptable.
Movement needs to be improved front and rear, muscle tone was lacking in quite a few, presentation on some was dreadful, two dogs needed feeding up, but the main winners were of good standing.
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Bournemouth CS
10th Aug 2015
Judge: Mrs Lynda Ward
I would like to thank the officers and committee for inviting me to judge, the stewards for unobtrusively keeping things running smoothly and the exhibitors for bringing their good dogs and accepting my decisions with grace. I was gratified to have only 3 absentees despite the awful weather forecast. The necessary inside ring, albeit slightly sloping and uneven, was a decent size giving each exhibit the opportunity to get into stride. Coats varied but there were many good textured topcoats over dense undercoats and on the whole pelts were thick. My worst issue was that some exhibits, despite being narrow and not fat, were very heavy and also a difficult span. Pads were generally thick but feet could be better trimmed as some that looked large and flat actually weren’t on examination. I look for shortish carrot-like tails and although some were thick at the base and tapering correctly they were overly long. I only found 2 with misplaced teeth and it was delighted to find most today had large well set white teeth in good scissor bite. In the past I’ve commented on lack of condition and poor muscle tone in hindquarters so was happy that all today’s entry was presented fit and in hard condition. Overall type was good, I was pleased with both line ups and the veteran classes were a particular treat
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Welsh Kennel Club
22nd Aug 2015
Judge: Mr Dan Ericsson (Sweden)
I very much enjoyed judging this quality entry and I left there were some particularly good bitches. As always, some classes were better than others, but my winners and the bitch line-up in particular pleased me. Heads varied considerably and also movement and fronts which still seem to be problems in the breed.
Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
well-presented bitch of lovely breed type presenting an excellent overall picture, feminine head which could have done with a stronger muzzle, very good legs and feet, sound front, good coat, rather overangulated behind, showed well
Scottish Kennel Club
30th Aug 2015
Judge: Mrs E Cuthbertson (Ashbrae)
My thanks to the society for my appointment & their hospitality, & to the exhibitors & my steward Bob Potts. Quite a mixed entry today of type & size with some being on the lean side & others rather overweight! I was surprised to find a couple totally oversized & therefore they paid the penalty. The over treating dogs I think is getting worse in the ring & on the table. Trying to assess a dog when it is fidgeting around looking for food is not satisfactory. Surely a dog can stand for a minute while being examined without having to be fed handfuls of food. The standard calls for a harsh & dense coat & the skin must be thick, many today were very short of coat & quite a number with thin pelts. A good coat is essential which seems to being overlooked in the breed today. The breed standard leans towards moderation not exaggeration & I hope this is maintained with the emphasis being on ‘essentially a working terrier’ & not ‘essentially a show terrier’.
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
liked this bitch for her type’ size & good construction. Nice head & neck, spans well, she was just on the lean side today
City of Birmingham
5th Sep 2015
Judge: Mrs P. Clark (Gameway)
My thanks to City of Birmingham for the invitation to judge and to the exhibitors who gave me such a good entry in both numbers and quality. Thank you also to my two hard working stewards who kept the ring running very smoothly. I found the limit and open classes in both dog and bitch had quality in depth and they were a pleasure to judge Thank You
Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Close decision similar remarks apply pleasing head good neck and shoulder narrow front. In good coat well handled and shown.
Richmond
12th Sep 2015
Judge: Mrs Eileen Needham (Titanium)
I should like to thank Richmond committee for my invitation to judge Border Terriers. It is quite a while since I judged the breed and so came to it today with a very open mind. I thoroughly enjoyed my day, with the opportunity of going over some very lovely dogs. I had plenty of choice in choosing my winners, and I would thank the exhibitors for bringing their dogs and receiving my decisions sportingly. My Stewards were excellent, keeping everything moving like clockwork.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
just under 2 years old & stood out in this class for me, presented in good order, harsh r/ gr coat, & with everything in the right place and in the correct amount, moved & showed well.
Driffield Agricultural Society
3rd Oct 2015
Judge: Miss Jean Singh
Many thanks to my two efficient stewards who kept the proceedings running smoothly. On the day I was surprised to find 4 level mouths, although a level mouth is acceptable in the standard, a scissor bite is preferable. Some exhibits could have been shown in a fitter condition and have their long nails clipped.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
South Wales Kennel Association
10th Oct 2015
Judge: Mr Phil Sharp
I would like to thank the committee of SWKA for their invitation to judge & their hospitality on the day, my stewards for all their hard work, & the exhibitors for their support making Border Terriers the highest entry in the group.
I was recently reminded just how long I have been involved with the breed when a photograph was circulated of the exhibitors at the very first open show of the Southern Border Terrier Club, held in a field close to the rectory at Hawkesbury. I guess this must have been in the early 1970s. It also prompted me to think that I must have judged for the first time some 40 years ago & I have seen a lot of Borders over the years since then. Each time I have judged I have been fortunate to find a few outstanding dogs, some very good ones, mostly good ones & very few poor ones. This was the case once again at this show.
Dentition was good, there were no kinked tails & movement & coats were variable as normal. A couple of the dogs were spooked by the loudspeaker announcements, which was a great shame for the owners. I believe that everyone knows the faults of their own dogs, so it is the plus points that I have noted down for the most part.
For one reason or another, I have not got to a show for a year or thereabouts, so seeing most of these dogs for the first time was a real pleasure.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Terrier Club of Devon and Cornwall Open Show
18th Oct 2015
Judge: Mr Colin Girling (Benattivo)
Thanks to the officers and committee for inviting me to judge, also thanks to my steward Gordon, who was very effective, efficient and friendly. Also thanks to the Southern Border Terrier Club for their generous sponsorship of the Border Terrier rosettes and prize money.
Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Lovely headed bitch also in good condition just lacked a bit of drive behind compared to 1 today.
Midland Counties Canine Society
25th Oct 2015
Judge: Miss Michelle Barnett (Brockfox)
My sincere thanks go to the society for the superb welcome and hospitality at this premium show, my proficient stewards and last but most importantly the exhibits and their exhibitors for their entries and sporting attitude. It was so nice to hear the ringside applause bestowed upon fellow exhibitors and as a judge it really does make for a pleasurable days judging
After my considerable absence ringside, my findings today were overall as always seems to be the case was the varieties in type, And some of the entry sadly on the day was far too big and by this i mean not necessarily in length of leg ( which the correct term is tall ) but in depth of chest and heavy shoulders , Fundamentally not the supple lithe bodies which is vital in an earth dog ,and an essential breed characteristic that we must strive to breed for.
Please assess your dogs objectively and ask yourself of your own dogs "is this really the build of an earth dog" ?
Mouths were on the whole correct but some very tight bites were apparent and teeth out of aliment I also found heavy almost houndy ears are also creeping in .
Always wanting to finish on a high note, once again temperaments as to be expected were excellent and all males were entire. As always when judging I was looking for a correct sized spannable tweedy border who comes to hand well, with the requisite ottery head shown in correct double jacket and thick pliable pelt, thus providing them the protection required of a working dog coupled with a lithe body with hard muscle tone and fitness to enable them to endure a day in the field
And in completing my appointment I was thrilled with my final line ups and ultimately such exemplary representatives of the breed to award the final top honours too.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Another quality balanced typey G & T bitch of correct size with lots to like, good feminine head dark eye and small dark ear. Shes a lovely moderate bitch, with a lovely straight front and racy quarters who was very well presented and in super coat She stylish on the move and was very well handled
Class Critique
Another good class
Torquay & District Canine Society Open Show
7th Nov 2015
Judge: Carolyn Fry (Bedeslea)
Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
14th Nov 2015
Judge: Miss T James (Blackmine)
I was honoured to be invited to judge at the Scottish Border Terrier Club and I thoroughly enjoyed my day. It was concerning that there were a large proportion of exhibits with poor front movement. The other area which I thought needed attention was heads – many lacked strength in foreface. On the positive side all the dogs had good temperaments, were clean and trimmed up to a good standard. Coats were all at various stages (as usual) but I found very few single coated exhibits. It was also pleasing to see so many neat cat-like feet. I felt that the quality of the bitches out-weighed that of the dogs.
Graduate - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Ladies Kennel Association
13th Dec 2015
Judge: Mrs Melanie Lewis (Tonromel)
Thank you to the Officers and Committee of LKA for the invitation to officiate and to my two excellent Stewards, Barry McCartney and Sue Jones, for their invaluable assistance throughout judging. Thank you to the exhibitors for a super entry of 176 exhibits making 192 entries, the largest entry in the Terrier Group, and also for the sporting manner in which my decisions were accepted.
Numerically the bitch entry was double the size of the dog entry, but on the whole the standard in both sexes was pleasing with some very strong contenders for top honours. Coats varied from being completely stripped out with only soft undercoat to those that were completely blown, however, many were presented in good jackets of the correct texture. Feet on the whole were good, being firmly padded. On a few exhibits the tails appeared to be overly long which on closer examination revealed that it was superfluous hair. If this had been removed it would have improved the overall picture. All males were entire and the temperaments displayed by all the exhibits was very good. I was presented with some very nice puppy entries, many showing a lot of promise, which can only auger well for the future of the breed.
I was very pleased with both my final dog and bitch line ups, with some tough decisions having to be made when it came to awarding the top honours, such was the depth of quality. All of my finalists were in fit condition; moved with purpose; had good muscle tone; pliable pelts and spanned with ease and I believe that, if the opportunity presented, they would be able to undertake the functions asked for in the breed standard. My one plea to exhibitors is to please refrain from pushing treats into the dog's mouth when the dog is being judged on the table as it makes it very difficult for a judge to assess the exhibit. Reward them by all means if you have to, but only do so at the appropriate time.
Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
very well presented in a good jacket, she is very balanced with everything in proportion. Feminine head with good dark eye and small ears dropping close to the cheek. She has a strong jaw with good teeth. Well angulated racy quarters, she moved positively retaining her top line.
Yeovil & District Canine Society Open Show
30th Dec 2015
Judge: Mr C Wallace (Hobholt)
Thank you to the Society for the invitation, the warm welcome by all and thanks to the exhibitors for a super entry and bringing your Borders’. The quality of exhibits was good, some tough decisions were made, I was really pleased with my final line up and that BOB and BP went well in the Group. It was unfortunate the Veteran class wasn’t called more clearly as not all the Veterans present were in the ring.
Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
B, 2 ¼ yrs, Gr&T, different type to 1, closer coupled, stronger head than 1, good head, big teeth, pleasing expression, thick pelt, good topline held well on the move, moderate bend of stifle, presented well.
Worcester & Malvern Canine Socety Open Show
2nd Jan 2016
Judge: Mrs. Liz Wright (Totherend)
Post Graduate /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Manchester Championship Show
14th Jan 2016
Judge: Mrs Ruth Ann Naun (USA)
I would like to thank the Manchester Dog Show Society, as well as Kate & Ronnie Irving who were my hosts while in Britain, I thoroughly enjoyed my judging and your hospitality.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Exeter and County CS Open Show
16th Jan 2016
Judge: Mr D Mathias
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Newton Abbott and South Devon CA Open Show
23rd Jan 2016
Judge: Beverly Deacon
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Plymouth & District Canine Society Open Show
13th Feb 2016
Judge: Kirstie Miller
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Portsmouth and Southsea CS Open Show
14th Feb 2016
Judge: Mrs Angela Reed (Roxambor)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Maidenhead & DCS Open Show
20th Feb 2016
Judge: Vera Harcourt-Morris (Lenacourt)
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Torquay and DCS Open Show
27th Feb 2016
Judge: Mr Gary Mason
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Swidon & DCS Open Show
5th Mar 2016
Judge: Mr L J Hunt
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Crufts
13th Mar 2016
Judge: Mr W R Irving
It was a great honour to judge the breed at Crufts again - after having done so once before. That was some thirty nine years ago in 1977 when the show was still held at Olympia! The entry this year at 266 from 239 exhibits though down a good deal on last year, was still enough to be going on with and we finished by 3.30 p.m. thanks to my excellent stewards Mr and Mrs Chaston. The exhibitors all seemed very sporting in line with the breed’s sportsmanlike traditions.
I thought that the depth of quality was better in bitches than it was in dogs with several classes where I would have liked to have had more prizes. I thought that heads were in the main pretty good and that fronts, though there were still plenty which weren’t great, were rather better than the last few times I had judged. Crufts is always known as a bad time for coats and this year was no exception with very many lacking in coat and others with rather soft coats. Quite a number of dogs and bitches were rather long in body mainly caused by having ribs that were not as the breed standard demands “carried well back” and thus having loins that were long rather than the required “strong”.
And finally Border Terriers are supposed to have a tail which is, according to the standard, “set high and carried gaily” Quite a few slink around the ring looking miserable and present no sign of the “activity” required by the standard and with tails that are carried low rather than “gaily”. I like to see a Border Terrier that shows a bit of animation and has what I’d call ‘lines’.
My thanks to the exhibitors for entering and for the efficient way that they showed their dogs.
Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
scored in head over 2 here, and very good clean neck. A shade lacking in coat but good in outline, good proportions. Enough bone. Sound hindquarters and moved OK in front and behind. Main scoring point was in head properties.
Bristol & District Dog Club Open Show
20th Mar 2016
Judge: Tan Nagrecha (Chandimore)
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
26th Mar 2016
Judge: Mr Bill Gray (Pontbeck)
A very big thank you to the club members, committee and officers for the privilege to judge this show for a second time. The club ensured I enjoyed my day with a warm welcome and being attentive to my every need. My stewards efficiency took a good burden from my shoulders and I was allowed to concentrate and assess the dogs.
Coats were a mixed bag from very little to very full but I would just say you can't judge something you can't see. I found it strange that some exhibits were stripped out except for a ridge of top coat running down their spine, creating a good outline is important but you can feel for body shape while handling. Heads were, in the main, very good to excellent with only a few that were lacking true Border character. The breed seems to have got on top of the problem regarding rear movement but front movement still needs to be addressed with a good number of exhibits " throwing their front around "
I was delighted in my main winners especially BIS. If I have seen a better example of the breed during the many years I've had an interest I can't remember. An outstanding dog in every respect, a true ambassador for Border Terriers and a dog that will be remembered in generations to come. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity of judging him.
The two puppy bitch classes along with junior and yearling bitch were packed with quality and that bodes well for the future.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Not as racy as the first but a true Border Terrier in every way. A very balanced picture whist standing with good rear angulation used to good effect on the move. Liked her a good deal.
National Terrier
2nd Apr 2016
Judge: Mrs T Grubbe (Borderhouse)
It was a honour to be asked to judge National Terrier Club Championship Show, awarding CC for the second time. A great entry. I thoroughly enjoyed my day, I was very pleased with my main winners. The overall quality was good. I saw some dogs who could have more drive in the movement and better front.
I send my warmest thanks to the committee and my ring stewards for taking so good care of me and making me feel so welcome.
Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Nice feminine type correct bite, dark eyes, a little big ears, nice neck and topline, well angulated behind, tailset a little low, moves with drive, nice pelt and coat
St Agnes CA Open Show
3rd Apr 2016
Judge: Miss S Clark (Canequiss)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG3, Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
10th Apr 2016
Judge: Mr D. Fryer (Irton)
The Border terrier breed standard is relatively brief, but implies a lot. To me, the most important clause is the first; 'Essentially a working terrier'. This must be interpreted; to me, it means that it must be capable of working to fox after following a possibly lengthy hunt across rough upland country, arriving under it's own steam, fit for purpose, at the same time as the huntsman who will typically be mounted. Thus it must have the length and depth of rib to allow good heart and lung room, and the conformation to allow properly efficient movement . It must also be narrow enough in rib to allow it to follow a fox to ground; and it must have the head and muzzle strength, and size of teeth and bite, to allow it to deal with whatever it finds. It must also have the coat and pelt to protect it from weather and quarry underground.
In my entry today, I found a lot of quality , but also a few worries. Front movement left a lot to be desired in too many exhibits; generally as a result of imperfect shoulder construction; though a worrying lack of muscle may well be a factor here. The puppy classes in particular left a lot to be desired in front movement; hopefully some will improve as they tighten up and mature. Coats were generally of good quality and mostly well prepared; though in some cases attempts at creative grooming did more to highlight shortcomings than to hide them. I found no undershot or overshot bites; though I did note a few with teeth not 'set square to the jaws', a few (older) dogs with missing teeth and several with somewhat crooked or undersized teeth. I was particularly impressed with the depth of quality in the upper dog classes.
My thanks to the Club and to the exhibitors for the opportunity to get my hands on so many quality Border terriers; particular thanks to Bev Jackson and family, and the collecting ring stewards, for the efficient marshalling of the ring which allowed me to concentrate solely on judging the dogs. I thoroughly enjoyed my day judging , and the welcoming and relaxed atmosphere throughout the show.
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Well balanced bitch, with well angulated hindquarters, well schooled, moving well. Just enough bone. Good head and expression. Good quality coat, well prepared.
West of England Ladies' Kennel Society
24th Apr 2016
Judge: Mr Frank Nicholls (Halcus)
An excellent entry, with real quality in both dogs and bitches. I’m only sorry we were forced indoors after the puppy bitch class to get out of the biting wind bouncing off the Malvern Hills. Heads were generally good, just a few snipey muzzles, and three or four light noses. I found no bad mouths. Quite a few had short, round rib cages with weak loins. Coats were pretty good overall. The biggest problem, and has been for quite some time, was poor front movement, with exhibits moving quite reasonably, and as one would expect from a breed expected to run whilst carrying out its job, when viewed from the side, only to wave their legs all over the place when coming towards me.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Built on similar lines to 1, perhaps not so well ribbed back, Good head, excellent coat, moved well.
Joint Border Terrier Clubs' Championship Show
1st May 2016
Judge: Mrs Trak Fryer (Irton)
My thanks to the exhibitors for their entry, always an honour to be allowed to go over their dogs, I did thoroughly enjoy my day. My thanks also to my stewards who helped to keep things on the move throughout.
It was in many ways an interesting entry, the standard asks for a dog that is essentially a working terrier and I wonder how many breeders keep this in mind when planning their litters? This implies a dog of correct size, capable of going all day and with strength but not coarseness. Whilst there were many good dogs present that could answer these requirements, there were many that could not.
The quality was very much in the upper classes of both sexes with a few notable exceptions. The major problem is movement, particularly in front, and the puppies were disappointing in this respect. Many otherwise excellent dogs simply could not cover their ground with any ease; it was an excellent ring with good mats so no excuses there.
In general coats and pelts were good, some could have been tidied to effect, feet and nails were poorly presented and fitness varied, which I always find very disappointing in a breed that does so love to run! I was surprised to find a number of mouths that at best could be described as “iffy”, whilst these would not necessarily effect the dogs ability to work it is a worrying trend. I did, however, have some lovely dogs to go over and I was very pleased with my winners, not enough cards to go round in many classes.
Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Very showy little bitch, good head, could be stronger over the foreface and a bit heavy in ear, OK for bone and reasonable all through, just fails a bit behind compared to one. Showing herself off very well in good coat and moving out OK.
National Dog Show
8th May 2016
Judge: Mr Peter Bakewell
Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
West Country Dog Club Open Show
15th May 2016
Judge: Mr Mark Walshaw (Janmark)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Devon County Show
20th May 2016
Judge: Mrs R V Webb (Clane)
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Scottish Kennel Club
22nd May 2016
Judge: Mr Simon Jackson
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Very well put together type with good strong movement, good otter head and a nice close correct coat.
Bath Canine Society Championship Show
27th May 2016
Judge: Mr Alan Hedges (Ramblix)
My thanks go to the Officers and Committee of Bath show for inviting me to come and judge Border Terriers for the first time, and on the Bath Billiard Table as well, it was a fabulous day for me and will live long in my memory.
I thought the dogs were better than the bitches although reading through my critique it doesn’t sound like that, but it was. If I may make a couple of points. Nobody who goes to shows goes to lose and some are making it rather easy for the judge to give them a hard time. Long pointed nails are not good news , nor is standing the dog like a rocking horse. If you are going to use bait, the dog needs to think it has a chance of getting it, the idea is to bring him up on his toes and make a much better picture. Every little helps, none of the opposition are going to roll over and make it easy for you!
Hind movement was generally better than front movement, and plenty could have been fitter.
My thanks go to all who entered, you gave me a wonderful day and I was honoured by each and every one of you
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
This one is a very typy bitch who was the best mover in the class. She has a good head and a nice expression. She has a straight narrow front and her body is narrow all through. She has good hindquarters with a well set tail and a good coat and pelt. This was a very competitive class, but she repelled all borders to win the day.
Southern Counties Canine Association
4th Jun 2016
Judge: Mrs Anne Tove Strande
I was thrilled to receive the invitation to come back to Southern Counties and judge Border Terriers!
The organizers know how to make people feel welcomed and I enjoyed the relaxed and friendly atmosphere! All details were very well taken care of and in the ring my stewards were extremely efficient and nice. Thanks to the exhibitors for showing their dogs under me and for their presentation, which was very professional.
I enjoyed the overall quality of the Borders. There were many with lovely otter heads and with correct racy outline. All but one was easily spannable and agile. I also appreciated good pelts and quality otter tails. Coats were of good texture, but I wish more dogs could be presented with fuller coats. I appreciate a Border with truly double coat and a little “tweedy” look about them so they do not remind me of a smooth terrier. Movements were free, but quite a few could improve in front movement becoming more stable and parallel.
My winning dog and bitch were both of such high quality they could win anywhere, both under breed specialists as well as all-rounders. In addition to having correct breed specific details, they were also well constructed. I chose the bitch as my BOB because she had that extra attitude and showmanship making her an eyecatcher. It made me proud on behalf of the breed that she also won the group!
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Royal Cornwall Show
9th Jun 2016
Judge: Mr R Allen (Penparc)
Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Three Counties Championship Show
10th Jun 2016
Judge: Miss S Dandy
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Feminine grizzle with style and quality, presenting a clean balanced outline. Liked her overall moderation and size. An appealing head with typical expression, length of neck into good topline with defined wither. Pleasing body proportions with soundly constructed well balanced quarters, straight legs, nice bone and feet. Correct underline, ribbed back with good length and firm loin. In fit, toned condition with good coat and pelt. Moved out freely with forward reach in profile, covering the ground really well.
The Sothern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
11th Jun 2016
Judge: Professor S P Dean (Tyrian)
It was a pleasure to judge the SBTC Championship Show and very pleasing to do so on their return to the Cheltenham racecourse. The new venue on the racecourse site has impressive facilities and they helped to provide a good atmosphere all day.
The bitch classes were generally very much better than the dog classes and the number of border terriers with thick pelts and a good coat was impressive. Heads are very much improved although some deep stops and large heavy ears cost a few dogs a higher placing.
In general terms the construction of hindquarters has improved but we are now seeing some dogs which have too much bend of stifle and end up with their hocks well behind their tail root when standing. Lay-back of shoulders has also improved yet some still have those relatively upright shoulders which yield a stilted movement in front. In addition, we need to keep the narrowness of the breed in mind, the border terrier does not have a rounded chest and should be well ribbed back as a result.
I struggled to span quite a few male dogs but the bitches were much better. Dentition was very good overall and very strongly made teeth was most enjoyable to find and always an impressive quality to see when examining a border terrier’s mouth.
Finally it was nice to see a few dogs with the characteristic thick carrot-shaped tail which, when set on correctly, always finishes the overall picture. Keep in mind it is an asset for the working terrier.
At the end there were some very promising youngsters who will contribute the future of the breed and several very high quality Border Terriers competing for Best in Show.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Quality head slightly larger in ear than winners. Superb coat and pelt. Moved OK.
Border Union Agricultural Society
19th Jun 2016
Judge: Mrs M Wanless
My sincere thanks go to the officers and committee of Border Union for this appointment, this is such a well run, friendly show, with outstanding hospitality!
My thanks also to my two Stewards on the day, Ella Linton, and Alan Small. Thank you too to all those who entered under me, and came, and accepted my decisions with good grace. I was pleased with my winners. I do wish though that dogs were shown on a loose lead, and stacked freely. Big ears are becoming prevalent, not as in the standard. Presentation and condition played a large part in my decisions.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
A smart, harsh coated grizzle bitch. Good for bone, neat feet. Lovely head, neat ears and good strong teeth. Lovely reach of neck , into correct shoulders, level top line and correct tail set. Carrot tail. Moved well.
Blackpool & District Canine Society
24th Jun 2016
Judge: Mrs Trudi Baird
My first CC appointment and a big thank you is due to the officers and committee of Blackpool & district canine society for allowing me the honour to judge at your show.
It was an immensely satisfying day judging a quality entry of Border terriers.
I found size in general to be excellent with only a couple who were too large that I couldn’t span. Mouths were all acceptable, with just a few who had teeth out of line. All Males were entire.
Coats were a problem, not on my main winners I hasten to add, and a good few exhibits were brought out too early in the coat department. Some judges may overlook this very important part of the breed standard but I certainly couldn’t. Upholding the maxim “essentially a working terrier”, a good double weather protective coat is a must!
I was thrilled when I stood back and looked at my DCC & BCC when they came in to challenge for best of breed, I thought they were very similar for type and stamp. A very pleasing and humbling conclusion to judging the dogs and bitches. Best of breed went to the bitch in a very close challenge; simply it was her head and expression that won me over.
Thank you to each and every exhibitor for bringing your dogs under me and accepting my decisions with grace.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle with good head and expression, good neat narrow front ,again excellent for size and span , super harsh coat with very good pelt,accurate and active on the move ,presentation first class, topline not as 1st on the move today.
Windsor Championship Show
3rd Jul 2016
Judge: Mr David Hunt (Ottaswell)
My thanks to the committee of Windsor Championship Dog for their invitation to judge at this show which is so efficiently organised and well run. Thanks also to my stewards Elaine Waddingham and Lynn Crane for their help and assistance in keeping the ring running smoothly at all times. My appreciation also to the exhibitors for their entries .
As usual at Windsor the ring was large in/out with lots of space for dogs to move freely and a fairly flat surface enabling movement to be assessed, without being forced to stop/start when moving the whole class. In general the dogs were in good condition and I found no dogs that were not entire. Although teeth were generally good, apart from a few misaligned, they varied greatly from very small to huge in size. Disappointed to see a few light eyes creeping in.
Coats varied as always with many shown in soft undercoat but lacking topcoat, but worryingly I found several with a decent topcoat but very little undercoat. Movement particularly at the front end continues to be of concern, whilst a puppy can improve and tighten in front as it matures, moving wide or high stepping in an older exhibit is difficult to change,
Generally the standard of the bitches was better than that of the dogs.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Well known red who I gave 1st in MPB on her debut the last time I judged. She does not disappoint with maturity. Neat head with well placed ears, dark eye and good bite. Narrow front with well placed shoulders, sufficient bone and neat feet. Good length of body but just thought her tail set was a fraction low with more than sufficient rear angulation.. In correct coat she was handled well and moved steadily
East of England Agricultural Society
9th Jul 2016
Judge: Mrs A E Gregory
This was my first appointment at this level and I would like to thank the organisers of the East of England Show for giving me this opportunity. I would also like to thank my two stewards, David and Pat Sutton for keeping everything running along smoothly. Thanks must also go to the exhibitors for allowing me the honour and privilege of judging their dogs and for the sporting way in which they accepted my decisions. I thoroughly enjoyed my day!
Movement on the whole was good but front movement in a few was incorrect with toeing in when coming towards me. A few lacked muscle tone and some feet and nails could have been tidied to better advantage. Thick pelts were in the minority and some exhibits were shown without undercoat and this affected placings. Considering the harsh terrain in which the Border Terrier is expected to carry out its’ work, it should be in fit, hard condition with a thick double coat and pelt of depth and quality. Some heads also had stops which were too deep. This does not present a correct otter like head which should have a shallow stop. I also found a couple of suspect mouths and a few dogs, when lifted off the table, were too heavy. Some dogs would have benefited from more ring training. However, I was pleased with my winners and, in some classes, decisions were close. Although early rain made the ring conditions less than desirable, all dogs coped well.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Of good size and type, head with flat skull, dark eye, good bite, perhaps a tad heavy in ear, well constructed straight front with good feet, good topline, good length of narrow body, well turned stifles, moved out soundly.
Liscarde Premier Open Show
10th Jul 2016
Judge: Liz Millward
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
16th Jul 2016
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Bailey (Grindelvald)
I would like to thank the Northern Border Terrier Club’s committee for the invitation to judge at this well organised & friendly show, I really enjoyed my day. A big thank you, to my stewards Sharon & Graham, who kept me on track throughout the day. On the down side some poor mouths, some of the males where lacking substance & not very masculine, bordering on thin, not sure they could do a days work. The depth of quality in the bitches was excellent & this meant that some decisions were very close & many lovely bitches missed out on this occasion. Also my thanks to the exhibitors for their sporting acceptance of my decisions.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Straight front, narrow throughout. Good feminine head, just preferred head of 1, nice turn of stifle gave her drive on the move, in excellent, presented in show condition
Leeds Championship Show
22nd Jul 2016
Judge: Mr Ken Bartlett
My thanks to the officers & committee for this appointment giving CCs in this breed for the first time, also the exhibitors for a lovely entry, also my two stewards who kept things running smoothly.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
otter head, ears well set, good teeth & neck into well laid shoulders, level topline to well set & carried tail, in very good coat, good on the move
Class Critique
A strong class
Plymouth and District Canine Society Open Show
23rd Jul 2016
Judge: Mrs M House
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Southampton & DCA Open Show
31st Jul 2016
Judge: Mr Tony Allcock MBE (Sleepyhollow)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Appealing two years bitch. Super head and profile. Sturdy rear assembly, great tail. A tad more body weight required to complete the package. Moved well. BOB.
Paignton & DFA Championship Show
6th Aug 2016
Judge: Mrs M Barrass
RBCC
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
very feminine well presented bitch who moved out around the ring, balanced otter like head with correct ear set, dark expressive eyes, strong scissor bite, straight front, sloping neck falling into laid back shoulders, good rib to loin ratio, muscular rear, correct tail set, easily spanned with loose pelt. RCC;
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
7th Aug 2016
Judge: Dogs: Ms Elspeth Jackson, Bitches: Mr Mike Hollingsbee
Dogs - Elspeth Jackson
I would like to extend many thanks to The Committee of the Midland Border Terrier Club for once again organising an enjoyable, well run show with a relaxed garden party atmosphere. It was an honour and a pleasure this year to enjoy it as Judge of the dog classes and I would like to thank the Officers and Committee for this honour. I was very ably assisted by two capable and efficient stewards to whom I would like to give thanks both for their help and for their hospitality. Further and important thanks are due to all the exhibitors who did me the honour of going over their dogs. It was a super entry both numerically and in depth of quality with cc quality dogs right down the line in some classes.
Bitches - Mike Hollingsbee
I would like to thank the Officers and Committee of the Club for inviting me to judge bitches at their show. I would also like to thank my stewards Sharon Pickering and Helen Thomas for keeping me in order and running the ring so efficiently. My thanks also go to the exhibitors for allowing me to examine their dogs and accepting my decisions.
Together with my co-judge Elspeth Jackson we managed to agree on the major honours of the day apart from Best Veteran. I preferred Elspeth’s dog choice and she chose my selection of veteran bitch. Our referee John Dace was called in and awarded Best Veteran to the bitch.
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle, narrow throughout, the sweetest feminine head, moved with drive and enthusiasm, presented in nice condition
Class Critique
What a lovely class, first three could easily change places on another day.
Bournemouth Canine Association
13th Aug 2016
Judge: Mr N Straw
I would like to thank Bournemouth Canine Association for the invitation to judge at their Annual Championship Show, my steward's who keeping things running smoothly in the 'office' and to the exhibitor's for a lovely entry. Temperaments as always in this breed were excellent. Size varied in both sexes with the bitches having the overall edge on the day. Heads were more uniformed than when I last judged, some were shown without the required 'double' coat and several were un-spannable, there were a few in-correct bites and front movement is still an issue, but the area that concerned me most was dirty teeth not just rear molars but the canines and incisors in particular some of the youngsters
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
(grz/t), well balanced b of good breed type, lovely otter head, neat ears, good muzzle & bite, narrow through, well ribbed back, easily spanned, good jacket & pelt, used her well made quarters to advantage on the move,
Welsh Kennel Club
20th Aug 2016
Judge: Mr S Plane
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
West Country Dog Club Open Show
29th Aug 2016
Judge: Mr Colin Woodward (Wadeson)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Richmond Championship Dog Show
10th Sep 2016
Judge: Mr David Shields (Wilholme)
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Class Critique
What a class, such strength in depth with some really lovely bitches missing out on the day, I was spoilt for choice.
The Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
24th Sep 2016
Judge: Mrs Jena Tuck (Nettleby)
I would like to thank the Committee of the Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge this very enjoyable and well run show. It was an honour and pleasure. In the ring I was very ably assisted by my two capable stewards Ian and Bridget, who I would like to thank. The hospitality of the Club was second to none I had a truly wonderful day. Thanks must go to the exhibitors, who allowed me to go over their dogs. The depth of quality was remarkable and some very good exhibits had to go cardless I was delighted by my main winners, thank you again for giving me the pleasure of judging them. I chose the dog as BIS because he had that extra attitude and showmanship.
BCC
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Reserve Best In Show
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Oused type and quality, the correct size and balance, easily spanned. A grizzle bitch with a very typical femimine head, not exaggerated in any way. A correctly angulated and narrow front, lovely head, good reach of neck into well laid shoulders. A good topline and tailset, good front and hind movement. Neat feet. I was very pleased to award her the CC, and for BIS it was a close decision. The dog pipped her on the day, with his presence and superb masculine head. What a pair.
Class Critique
What a superb class, the best of the day. I was spoilt for in depth quality, any of those below are CC material in my opinion.
Driffield Agricultural Society Championship Dog Show
1st Oct 2016
Judge: Mrs Jane Roberts (Smalesmouth)
I would like to thank the officers and committee of the Driffield Agricultural Society for the invitation to judge at their show.
I was grateful to have the use of an excellent sized ring. The surface was rather undulating and rough cut in places, which proved more of a challenge to those dogs whose movement did not have “the soundness to follow a horse”. It was a very raw start to the day with the dogs being judged under rather cold and misty conditions although the sun did break through as the bitch classes began.
Grateful thanks to my stewards Anne and Sarah, who kept everything moving so efficiently and were good company for the day. My thanks to all the exhibitors, it really is a privilege to go over your dogs and is always a learning curve. I had a thoroughly enjoyable day and there were some top quality exhibits and some promising youngsters, whose progress I will watch with interest. Some decisions were hard, and limit dog, junior and limit bitch had quality in depth.
It was extremely rewarding to find some very good double jackets amongst the entry but felt there were several others who had thin pelts or lacked undercoat. There were a couple with teeth out of alignment and too many dogs whose movement lacked the necessary drive from the hindquarters.
I was mindful of the job that Border Terriers were bred to undertake and I was pleased with my class winners; making the challenge for both dogs and bitches an enjoyable if difficult task.
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Class Critique
A very good class of quality bitches
South Wales Kennel Association
8th Oct 2016
Judge: Mr John Bainbridge (Risdene)
Thank you to the exhibitors who took the trouble to present their dogs at a difficult time of year in good condition with reasonable coats appropriately trimmed, as they know my wants. The top five winners were outstanding for being' normal' representatives of the breed with none of the current trend for exaggeration, in front and rear assemblies,all had correct length of body ,narrow front, deep ribs carried well back that provides the necessary heart and lung room for a border to be active all day and go to ground when needed.
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Midland Counties Canine Society
27th Oct 2016
Judge: Mrs Jean Willetts (Hanway)
I would like to thank the committee of the Midland Counties Canine Society for inviting me to judge at their show. Many thanks to my two stewards, who did an excellent job and kept the ring running smoothly. And finally to the exhibitors who entered their dogs for me to judge, it was a great pleasure making it an enjoyable day.
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
The Scottish BTC Championship Show
12th Nov 2016
Judge: Mrs. Nancy Hogg (Raeburnfoot)
Thank you for inviting me to judge this show. If my memory serves me correctly this was the very first Border Terrier show I exhibited at……30 years ago.
It really was a pleasure to go over so many good examples of the breed. Coats were at various stages and some paid the penalty with either little top coat or totally blown. Mouths were good. Some movement, especially front. Not so good. Size was better than I have seen in the past. Temperament on every exhibit was really good I am pleased to say. No noise from the cage area either that I was aware of. I was delighted with my main winners.
Special thanks must go to my very able steward and to the kitchen ladies for a lovely meal and coffee.
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Ladies Kennel Association
11th Dec 2016
Judge: Mr Graham Pickering (Picer)
I would like to thank the committee of Ladies Kennel Association for their kind invitation to the judge the breed at this well organised show and their generous hospitality. It was a real honour and I thoroughly enjoyed my day. I would also like to thank my stewards Tony and Katherine for keeping things running smoothly throughout the day. Thank you also, to all the exhibitors for their entries and the sporting way that they took the decisions that I made.
As for the dogs – as expected, coats varied, all the dogs were entire, in clean condition and well behaved. There were a couple of dogs with teeth not set square in the jaw or with teeth out of line. I was looking for dogs of the correct size, with a typical otter head, a harsh double coat and a thick pelt, plenty of muscle, the correct amount of bone, and shown in hard condition. I also expect to see dogs that move true and with ease around the ring and look physically capable of doing a days’ work, whether they get the opportunity or not. All my winners had these attributes and as often happens many deserving exhibits went without cards on the day.
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Class Critique
This was a lovely class of quality border bitches and unfortunately there were some that went without cards today that deserved recognition.
Boston & District Canine Society
8th Jan 2017
Judge: Mr E Houston
My thanks to the Society for inviting me,to my two very able stewards, Barry and Debs,and,most especially,to the exhibitors who allowed me the privilege of going over their dogs and who accepted my decisions so sportingly.
Overall I was very impressed with the quality of the entry.The limit and open classes in both sexes had quality beyond the placings and there were some very promising puppies,especially among the bitches- this must augur well for the future.Heads were largely typical,most were spannable and considering the time of year I was pleasantly surprised to find so many in good coat.On the downside,many were lacking muscletone and front movement continues to be an issue and not just in the lower classes.I was pleased with both line ups and thought my main winners excellent examples of the breed. I was delighted to hear that my Best of Breed went on to win the Group.
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Manchester General Championship Show
19th Jan 2017
Judge: Mrs Karen Dean (Tyrian)
I would first like to thank the society for inviting me to judge and also my stewards for efficiently managing the ring. This is a particularly difficult time of year for coats especially with Crufts on the horizon, producing some results that would change on another day. Several exhibits lacked the harsh top coat and some were past their best resulting in good harshness but lack of undercoat so giving a thin feel to coat and particularly the pelt. I was a little disappointed in the number of exhibits that were not displaying the drive I was looking for and hope this is also due to the time of year. I was particularly pleased with both my CC and RCC winners especially in relation to their movement.
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Newton Abbot & South Devon CS Open Show
28th Jan 2017
Judge: Mrs D Irvin
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Plymouth & DCS Open Show
11th Feb 2017
Judge: Mr M Gardner
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Terrier Club of Devon and Cornwall Open Show
19th Feb 2017
Judge: Mandy Holmes (Bimandi)
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Crufts
9th Mar 2017
Judge: Miss Sally Leslie (Risdene)
It was a great honour and pleasure to examine a superb entry of 250 dogs with 28 absentees. I was conscious that the judging period available had to be used wisely. My profound thanks to all exhibitors, my splendidly efficient stewards Mr R and Mrs A Green and the marvellous exhibitor who provided the red chair as my unofficial ring marker (even if she did occasionally have the temerity to sit in it) for co-operating famously to ensure that we completed our task in a timely manner while hopefully enabling everyone an equal opportunity to put their best foot forward.
To go over something special and send it round and see proof that it meets the crucial test of health and conformation makes the pulse quicken. I was looking for typical, well knit, well conditioned, free moving specimens exhibiting all the breed characteristics we need to retain while trying to minimise undesirable aspects. This is a natural and unexaggerated breed and my ultimate line-ups pleased me immensely displaying exactly what I was seeking
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
lost out slightly in forehand but correct bone and good feet, feminine with very pleasing expression, carries herself well, good in loin with correct width and strength of rear quarters,
Class Critique
could have easily used more cards in this class,
East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
19th Mar 2017
Judge: Mrs Jayne Gillam (Orenberg)
What a pleasure it was for me to judge the East Anglian Border Terrier Club Championship Show on Sunday 19th March 2017. Thanks to the EABTC for inviting me to judge and to the exhibitors for the lovely entry and the sporting way in which they accepted my decisions. A really friendly relaxed atmosphere and a good big well lit ring awaited me, along with a good steward in Robert Brewster who did a sterling job keeping everything running smoothly. It certainly was a quality entry and I really enjoyed going over all the dogs and coats and pelts were much improved since the last time I judged. Toplines, shoulders and movement were varied but I was very pleased with my winners on the day, in some classes they would change places on another occasion but I was judging them today as I saw them, and how I interpreted the Breed Standard.
Mid Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
liked this one a lot and stood out in this class, neat front assembly, with straight forelegs, neat feet and firm pasterns, lovely head and expression with neat ears, lovely neckline into shoulder and good hind angulation, well presented in good coat and pelt, moved well.
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
25th Mar 2017
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Curtis (Matamba)
Thank you to The Border Terrier Club officers, committee and members who elected to give me the privilege of judging their club championship show, and many thanks to the exhibitors who travelled from near and far and accepted my placings sportingly. Thanks to my two stewards Janice Johnson and Judith Fawcett who did a grand job and also thanks to the hard working Joyce Martin for all the wonderful photographs.
Today the overall picture and my main concern was that we seem to be losing the "Head like that of an otter moderately broad in the skull, with short strong muzzle". What I was seeing was a narrow skull which does not give that typical Border Terrier expression. Movement was more of a problem in the dog classes, in the bitch classes came the quality and the soundness.
When it comes to the showring, presentation is, in my opinion, important. I like to see a dog smart but not over groomed or in full coat but tidy, today attention to ears, tails and feet could have been beneficial to some exhibits.
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Pressed the winner hard, just a little heavy in ears but a nice expression, good straight front, good reach of neck and topline, good bend of stifle but handler sometimes tends to overstretch her when standing, moved ok.
National Terrier Club
1st Apr 2017
Judge: Mr A Horner (Stineval)
Thank you to The National Terrier Club for the appointment also my stewards who did a sterling job in keeping everything moving smoothly and a thank you to the exhibitors for allowing me the opportunity to go over their prized possessions. A few dogs were under weight and some would benefit by having their feet and nails some attention. I only found one suspect mouth and lots lacking in body condition. Some need to put scissors in the drawer and leave them there too! I was pleased with the final lines of my winners of both sexes.
Limit - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
West of England Ladies' Kennel Society
28th Apr 2017
Judge: Mrs L Illingworth
My thanks goes to the society for the welcome and hospitality and for giving me the opportunity to judge a smashing entry of Border Terriers. Special thanks to my proficient stewards Anne and Rod Green for keeping the ring flowing smoothly.
The quality was pleasing with many fit, well presented and workman like dogs present, Dogs on the whole were well balanced and span able , a few were too upright in shoulder effecting an economical stride my main worry was mouths there were quite a few with small teeth weak under jaws and others with teeth out of alignment, worrying in a working breed. Double coats and thick pelts were in plenty
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Joint Border Terriers Clubs' Championship Show
30th Apr 2017
Judge: Mrs. K. Wilkinson (Otterkin)
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Birmingham National Dog Show
4th May 2017
Judge: Mr Terence Tuck
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Scottish Kennel Club
21st May 2017
Judge: Mr I Hopper
I would like to thank the Scottish Kennel Club for inviting me to award Challenge Certificates for the first time. Thank you to everybody who entered their dogs for me to judge and also to my ring steward June who was good assistance on the day .There were no bad mouths all the dogs were entire, coats were at various stages. I enjoyed my days judging and the top winners were dogs that I felt fitted the breed standard.
Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Quality bitch feminine expression good ear set, teeth ok good reach of neck, good topline easily span able, hard coat on loose pelt moved out well preferred stronger head of winner.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
11th Jun 2017
Judge: Mr Arthur Cuthbertson (Ashbrae)
My thanks to the Club for my appointment which I thoroughly enjoyed. Thank you to the Officers and Committee for their hospitality and gift. Thanks to my stewards Tina Morgan and Jane Roberts for the efficient way they kept the show moving along. I was very pleased with my final line ups, which were all presented in very good coat and condition. I would have been happy to have awarded at least 3 CC’s in each sex. All the dogs placed had correct dentition which was very pleasing. Movement has improved since the last time I judged. However I do think more thought should be taken regarding heads as a lot appear to be lacking strength under the eye and jaw, which results in losing the otter like head.
BCC
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Best In Show
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Mid Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Top quality feminine bitch in top condition coat pelt and muscle tone. Nice head with strong jaw and keen expression. Neck of moderate length into good lay of shoulder. Nice length of back, good topline and tailset. Easily spanned. Moved with drive and confidence around the ring, pleased to award her CC & BIS.
Border Union Agricultural Society
17th Jun 2017
Judge: Mr Phil Sharp (Martec)
I would like to thank the Committee for inviting me to judge at this Show. It was my first visit to Kelso and I was most impressed with the hospitality and organisation there. My two excellent stewards, Gordon and Donald, kept me on the straight and narrow and contributed to a lovely atmosphere in and around the ring.
I did not make my usual visit to the SBTC championship show the weekend before as I wanted to see all the dogs afresh, and I am glad I did as many of the exhibits were new to me. In general, mouths were good, with dentition only slightly awry in one instance. I found no kinked tails and all dogs were entire.
It was a very hot and sunny day and this affected some dogs, who perhaps lacked their normal animation and were moving lethargically. As usual, there was a wide variation in coats, with some totally lacking top coat, and this naturally had an effect on the placings.
I would like to thank the exhibitors for the large entry and for the sporting way in which my decisions were taken throughout my judging stint.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
BCC
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
CC, BOB. I placed this one a couple of years ago in a strong class. She strode into the ring as if she owned it and really deserved the top honours today. I heard afterwards that this was her third ticket so congratulations are in order! In superb condition, she looked a picture of a Border Terrier. She covered the ground with ease. Her coat was in top condition. She has a lovely head, good set of ear and a lovely expression.
Blackpool Championship Dog Show
23rd Jun 2017
Judge: Mr D Mitchell (Paleside)
I would like to thank Blackpool for inviting me to give my first CC’s, and to the exhibitors for a lovely entry of super dogs which were a pleasure to go over. My two stewards for doing a sterling job. It was such a shame the weather turned on Friday morning, the heavens opened and it blew a gale. But you turned out non the less. Overall I was pleased with the movement back and front. Dogs were in good fit condition, some would benefit from ringcraft for both dog and owner. From what I saw today things are good for the future of our breed.
Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Placing Critique
Strong head, dark eye, good bite, nice length of ribs into good shoulder. Short harsh jacket, moved well.
East of England Agricultural Society
9th Jul 2017
Judge: Mrs Marion Reeves
Having achieved 80 years on my last birthday I have decided that this has to be the last occasion that I award C.C. ‘s in Border Terriers. It’s time for the next generation to step up. In the showring border terriers still come in every size & shape imaginable. Our breed standard is I believe the sketchiest of all the breed standards offering only limited guidance as to the perfect exhibit. What would be wrong with including an ideal ratio of length of body to height at withers? I also have a problem with “Hindquarters – racy” which for me describes a greyhound or a whippet. Surely we don’t want the overangulated hindquarters that have crept into the breed in recent years.
On to the Show! I was very pleased with my entry & had no difficulty finding some worthy winners.
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
The Nothern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
15th Jul 2017
Judge: Mrs. P. McLellan (Breconbeds)
My thanks to the committee and members for giving me the opportunity to judge this show, with such an excellent entry. However, I’m sorry to say that I was alarmed to see so many dogs that were short in both rib and leg, resulting in short backed and cobby looking dogs with deep briskets. I also observed that some of these same dogs had pleasant enough heads but carried very small teeth.
Movement was a major concern; decent enough dogs to examine but poor fronts on the move spoiled the whole picture – toeing in and/or with incorrect shoulder angulation. Some were really wide in front.
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
Paignton
5th Aug 2017
Judge: Mr Jeff Horswell (Drakesleat)
Great characters and a sporting ringside. I thought there were some size problems, a few being rather bulky. Front action is the biggest problem, not many being accurate coming towards. Feet by and large very good.
Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Tarkaswell Doctor's Orders JW
