Show Placings
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
10th Jun 2023
Judge: Miss Julie Price (Oxcroft)
Thank you to all at the Southern Border Terrier Club for the invitation to judge your championship show this year, it was a great honour and privilege. The weather was hot and the venue was good to gain some shade for the dogs and myself! I had two very capable stewards who kept things running smoothy throughout the day, so thank to Kathleen Haugh and Sophie Liggat for their support. I really enjoyed my day and was more than happy with my winners. Thank you again for your hospitality.
I was looking for type, gameness, soundness and dogs that were fit to do a day’s work whilst not losing any attributes of the breed standard. Some exhibits were rather well muscled around the shoulders which made it difficult to feel the lay of the shoulders and this would also restrict their ability to go to ground. As a breed I think we are losing the otter heads and keen expressions which distinguishes the Border Terrier from other terrier breeds. A lady contacted me a week after the show and explained that she had attended the show during some of the bitch classes as she was looking to purchase a puppy having recently lost two of her old Borders. She explained she was now thinking of buying another breed as the dogs in the show ring did not look like the Borders she had had previously. She felt that they did not have the characteristic otter heads, and sadly I had to agree with her.
Overall, most dogs were fit for purpose and I am sure you all took the best dog home with you. In the current financial climate, all your entries were valuable to the club and it was a pleasure and an honour to go over your dogs.
Best Puppy - Bitch
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Best Puppy
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
Lovely little bitch, six-month-old with a feminine otter head, narrow front and good lay of shoulders and small neat feet. Lovely outline and moved well with confidence. Best Puppy
Wealdstone & Northolt Canine Society Open Show
24th Jun 2023
Judge: Mrs V. Williams-Wegmann (Essvana)
Best Puppy
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Eastbourne & DCS Open Show
25th Jun 2023
Judge: Mrs Felicity Snook (Pitcombe)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Best Puppy
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
East of England Agricultural Society
6th Jul 2023
Judge: Joyce Martin (Merumhor)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for the invitation to judge Border Terriers at the East of England Agricultural Society Show, which was to be the last one run by this society. It was a super venue with lovely big rings which gave the dogs a chance to stride out. Many thanks to my ring stewards Peter and Lesley Armstrong for keeping things running smoothly and efficiently. I was delighted with my entry of 109 dogs making a total entry of 149 and pleased with the overall quality of dogs shown. Thank you to the exhibitors for giving the chance to go over your dogs and for the sporting way the placings were taken. It is indeed a privilege to have the opportunity do so. I was thrilled to be able to watch the terrier group and see my BOB - Stineval Lambert JW take group 1 in a quality line up. I also was delighted to hear that my BPIB - Glebeheath Ophelia went Group 3 in the Puppy Group.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Southampton & DCS Open Show
22nd Jul 2023
Judge: Mrs Penny Sands (Krakenexis)
Puppy /
Second Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Leeds Championship Show
29th Jul 2023
Judge: Mr Brian Aubrey (Jenabeck)
Thank you all for a wonderful entry, I had to make some difficult choices on the day, but as always, I judge the dog on the day friend or foe and not what the dog as done in the past or what it will do in the future.
a few things did concern me on the day (1 ) so Many dirty teeth, (2) a few unfit dogs due to being overweight, (3) and the most concerning is short legs on one or two of the borders,
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Paignton Championship Show
5th Aug 2023
Judge: Colin Powell (Bowtman)
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
6th Aug 2023
Judge: Mr. Bob Wright (Totherend)
It was a real honour to judge my home club’s show and my thanks go to a great committee for the opportunity and the way they run the club with all hands to the wheel. Richard Wright and Sharon Pickering had my back and have my appreciation for a great day’s stewarding.
I was disappointed in the early dog classes where what initially looked like an impressive line-up failed to materialise once on the table or on the move. Movement was a weak spot for a surprisingly large number of exhibits, especially front movement. There were three poor mouths and one exhibit that couldn’t be spanned but lots of good pelts, coats and neat feet. However long tails are becoming more common and a true carrot tail is about as rare as hen’s teeth. I was fascinated by some handlers interpretation of a triangle, suffice to say it’s a good job it wasn’t a maths exam.
Once again there were only two CCs available which is a great shame when there are so many who warrant them. I can only sympathise with those who went home empty handed. It was most likely a reflection of the strength of the classes rather than their standing. The bitch classes were especially strong with at least six exhibits worthy of much more than I had available to offer. When it came to the line ups I was clearly torn and had to be really picky to get to a decision but in the end I was pleased with all the winners.
Whilst there is still much that can be done to improve some aspects of the breed there is a lot to be proud of with some really stunning exhibits out there.
Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
as minor puppy
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
another feminine head, well balanced, narrow, ribs well back, moved ok on tidy feet but would have liked to see a little more muscle and angulation on rear.
Bournemouth CS Open Show
11th Aug 2023
Judge: Mrs Hilary Male (Malenbrook)
Junior /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Bournemouth Championship Show
13th Aug 2023
Judge: Ms Tina Jones (Otterholme)
My thanks go to the committee of Bournemouth Championship Show for inviting me to award tickets for the first time, it was a very special day.
Special thanks to my stewards Gentle Lowe and Brian Aubrey for doing such a sterling job, allowing me to focus on the task in hand.
I was delighted with the entry that awaited me, a huge thank you to the exhibitors for giving me the privilege to go over their dogs, this was a real honour and the sporting way they accepted my decisions, on the whole by most exhibitors.
I was told many years ago, by someone well respected in the breed to judge with the hands, not with the eyes, never did this ring true as today. Some dogs I have admired from the ringside, didn’t live up to expectations, whilst others that hadn’t previously caught my eye, surprised me and did.
Being the daughter of a hunt terrier man I could get no better grounding in the requirements of an earth dog, these were the days long before quad bikes, terriers would be expected to be on their feet from the moment hounds drew off until close of the hunting day, working in landscapes not dissimilar to that of that hunt the breed first originated from.
l tried to look subjectively at the exhibit before me to see if they had the confirmation and condition to undertake such duties. I was surprised how quite a number were difficult to span and far too deep in chest and too wide in front and came up heavy, lacking the narrowness to go to ground, a distinct disadvantage in the working arena, legs bend, chests don’t.
I was finding rear movement was better than front, but more than a few lacked the drive that I looked for with elevated front action that indicates an upper arm that is shorter than ideal.
I look to see feet that are tight with a good thick pad so vital in an earth dog, many were lacking in this important trait.
I found temperaments superb throughout the day, dentition was questionable on several exhibits and all dogs entire.
A plea to exhibitors if you bait them on the table, that is fine if they look hypnotically at the treat, but on several occasions, owners were wrestling with their dogs trying to get at the treat, making it difficult to assess them.
I am always mindful to judge fit for function, and I was happy that my winners fitted that bill and all sporting decent jackets and pelts and meeting my interpretation of the breed standard.
I was delighted to see my BOB going on to third in the terrier group and my BP winning the terrier puppy group.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Puppy - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Class Critique
A really nice class
The Welsh Kennel Club Championship Show
19th Aug 2023
Judge: Jane Morton Shaw (Fehmarn)
I would like to thank the WKC committee for inviting me to judge at this lovely show. It was very well organised with a super friendly atmosphere.
Thank you to all the exhibitors for your entry & accepting my decisions so graciously.
I thoroughly enjoyed my day, but I have to apologise for the late start! I’m always super early for everything, and had arrived on the showground by 8am. Unfortunately my watch battery ran out at 8.20 and I was mortified when I realised it had stopped and to find out that the time was 9.35!!!
I was very pleased to see my BOB, BPIB & BVIB shortlisted in their groups, with Veteran going on to Group 3.
Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Kent County Canine Asociation Open Show
20th Aug 2023
Judge: Debra Wilson (Jandade)
Junior /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Horley & DSS Open Show
27th Aug 2023
Judge: Mr Tan Nagrecha (Chandlimore)
Best Puppy
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
South West Essex CA Open Show
28th Aug 2023
Judge: Bill Crawley
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG3, Arunmere Artemis
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
City of Birmingham Championship Show
2nd Sep 2023
Judge: Mrs K Wilkinson (Otterkin)
Thank you to City of Birmingham for the invitation to judge this show, for the very large ring provided to the breed and to all the exhibitors who entered under me – I was very pleased with the overall quality of the entry of 122 dogs making 144 entries in these days of falling entries, with very few absentees (16 from “new dogs” by my count).
The ring stewards did an excellent job of keeping everything running smoothly – so thank you to John Gardner and Ken Francis.
I would like to send my best wishes to Anna Duxbury (Ridgebow) who had initially been under contract to judge this as her very first Championship Show. Having seen Anna judge at the Border Terrier Club’s Open show in February 2022, I know she is a very experienced and knowledgeable judge as well as an excellent breeder and hope in time that she is able to take on another Championship Show appointment in the future. I had originally been invited to judge this show in 2024 and had sent my acceptance letter, but when the Secretary contacted me, I agreed to bring forward the appointment to 2023.
I have taken the name/s of the owner/s and the dogs’ names direct from the catalogue. Some may have other owners or Kennel Names added, or awards such as Ch or JW added now, but I must use the details from the catalogue.
*Handlers* – please do not stuff food/tubes of treats into your dogs’ mouths just before the judge needs to look at their dentition. Those who stood behind their dogs and held the lead, I had no problem examining their dogs’ mouths, but a small number of others who were stuffing food into their dog’s mouth as I approached, once they moved away, some dogs were up on their hind legs trying to get more food/treats from you. I had to examine the rest of the dog then come back and look in the mouth again when the dogs were not fidgeting about looking for food. If you are doing it to avoid the dentition being checked, it won’t work as a judge will just come back to it!
It was quite hot in the hall. Kudos to all the dogs as they were not put off by the noise made when judge and/or handler stood on whatever was under the carpet making a “clunk” noise. I found when spanning dogs, almost all of them were hot underneath. Never felt that before, even when judging in 90 degree heat outside in America, so just be aware that your dog may be getting overheated.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Richmond Championship Show
8th Sep 2023
Judge: Mr Tim Ball (Kaitak)
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
The Southern Border Terrier Club Open Show
16th Sep 2023
Judge: Mr Robert Brewster (Stowthorney & Breckgreen)
I would like to thanks the officers and committee of The Southern Border Terrier Club for giving me the honour of judging their Open Show. I first signed the contract for the show in 2017, but due to Covid and the Lockdown I have only just fulfilled my judging appointment. Whist remembering those who are no longer with us due to the Covid Pandemic. I was happy with my entry and would like to also thank the exhibitors for entering under me and thank them all for taking my decisions, some of which were difficult, in a sportsmanlike way. I found most exhibits to be in good order, but I was quite worried that I found some younger exhibits with a build-up of scale on their teeth. This should be addressed as soon as possible. I was also delighted with a young exhibitor, attending her first show, on a whole handling her young dog so well whilst full of nerves and inexperience. We need to encourage these youngsters as they are the custodians of our breed
Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
30th Sep 2023
Judge: Mrs J Guvercin (Glebeheath)
Thank you to the committee for this appointment, everyone worked hard to make it an enjoyable day. This venue always has a super atmosphere, however, the ring is too small really to see outlines, being far too near the dogs and side profile movement is very difficult to see, let alone for the dogs to perform really well. Many moved poorly, not liking the smooth mats and although I had to judge them on this today, I think most would move much better outside in a big grass ring.
Puppy - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Class Critique
Some very promising puppies.
Romsey & DCS Open Show
1st Oct 2023
Judge: Jason Hunt
Best Puppy
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Guildford & District Canine Society Open Show
7th Oct 2023
Judge: Mrs Sue Baxter (Mysulan)
First of all , sincere thanks go to Hilary and the committee for the
kind invitation to judge BT’s at this show and thanks to Kevin my
steward who kept things moving along nicely. Also I have grateful
thanks for the exhibitors who not only allowed me the opportunity
to go over their dogs but accepted my decisions in a sporting
manner.
General comments are as follows , I didn’t find any bad mouths
or kinked tails and coats were at differing stages of growth which
is quite normal . I would like to add that during examination of the
dogs on the table that it is not helpful for the owner to be feeding
or allowing the dog to lick at a treat constantly , attempting to
check the bite becomes almost impossible and adds to the
confusion for the dog, owner and judge, please keep this practice
for the training room and not in the show ring.
Puppy /
Second Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
a sweet 9 month old G&T girl ( is, I understand , a litter sister to first ) . A
lighter build ,racy type . Sweet feminine head piece , not quite the
muzzle strength or back skull of her sister. Ears small and set
correctly , falling neatly at the cheek. Narrow throughout ,jacket
was good for texture and pelt was sufficiently loose .Standing on
nice small and well padded feet . Was quite unsettled on the table
which will improve with time and experience. Moved ok …
Portsmouth & Southsea KA Open Show
8th Oct 2023
Judge: Penny Funnell (Powerpack)
Best Puppy
Name at show: RBPIS, TPG1, Arunmere Artemis
Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
South Wales Kennel Association
13th Oct 2023
Judge: Mr W Shorthose (Cundytyke)
I think hind movement has generally improved though the same cannot be said for fronts. Most were shown in good coat and only one exhibit was clearly of poor temperament.
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
Neat head, keen eye, good mouth, balanced shape and size, moved ok but could do with muscling up behind.
Midland Counties Championship Show
26th Oct 2023
Judge: Mr J Gilpin (Otterbobs)
I would like to thank the officers & committee for giving me the opportunity to judge the Border Terrier classes, & also a big thank you to Penny Winger & Gavin Argill my two ring stewards who kept things in order & also made sure we finished on time, and a special mention to my Best of Breed winner for attending the terrier group, and being rewarded with being short listed in the final seven.
Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
Another well put together pup, full of confidence, a typical otter head, keen expression, correctly placed teeth in a strong jaw, she has a straight front and stood on strong pasterns, good hind quarters which allowed her to move with ease.
East Kent Canine Society Open Show
5th Nov 2023
Judge: Michael Blay (Longbarrow)
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG3, Arunmere Artemis
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
East Anglia Border Terrier Club Open Show
18th Nov 2023
Judge: Libby Tanton-Joy (Itsaso)
I would like to thank the committee for inviting me to Judge their Open show, and all exhibitors that entered. I had a lovely entry with some quality dogs to go over. All placing’s were accepted with grace. Many thanks to both my stewards who kept the ring moving. The show had a lovely atmosphere and I enjoyed my day
Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Crystal Palace Canine Association Dog Show
26th Nov 2023
Judge: Siân McKay (Redesholt)
My thanks go to the committee, volunteers and my steward for the day, for helping to make this show so friendly and welcoming, on a very crisp morning in November.
I was satisfied with my final line-up all being good examples of the breed; with the conformation and attributes to make them potentially successful working terriers as well as possessing a degree of showmanship. It was pleasing to note some good movement on show.
I was delighted to note that my Best of Breed went on to further honours and gained TG3, and, as I learned later, the Best Puppy was from the same kennel, and went TPG1- Congratulations to the breeder and owner.
Puppy /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Woolwich, Bexley & District Canine Association Open Show
3rd Dec 2023
Judge: Dale Elliot (Lyndham)
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG4, Arunmere Artemis
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Ladies Kennel Association
8th Dec 2023
Judge: Mr Ken Bartlett (Dwilencia)
Puppy - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Wealdstone & Northolt Canine Society Open Show
10th Dec 2023
Judge: Dr J Lappin (Ireland)
Best Puppy
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
East Kent Canine Society Open Show
4th Feb 2024
Judge: Jen Bowden (Chellowside)
Yearling /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Portsmouth & Southsea KA Open Show
11th Feb 2024
Judge: Mr John Dare (Bowstaff)
Graduate /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Guildford & District Canine Society Open Show
18th Feb 2024
Judge: Jacqui Ward (Mianja)
Junior /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
The Southern Border Terrier Club Open Show
3rd Mar 2024
Judge: Miss Nicola Foster (Thozow)
It was a great honour to be invited to Judge a Border Terrier Club Open show so I would like to thank the Southern Club for this opportunity. It was a day I had been looking forward too, so I would also like to thank the exhibitors for their entries, allowing me to access their dogs and for accepting my decisions. I was most grateful to my stewards Sian McKay & Marina Fleming who kept the ring running efficiently, and also live streamed the challenges and BIS.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
This bitch has a feminine head with an expressive dark eye. Muzzle short with a flat skull; straight front medium bone, neck well set on and long enough, a good depth of rib, spannable, adequate bend of stifle, correct tail set. Coat coming along nicely with a thick pliable pelt. Lacked enthusiasm on the move today.
Woolwich, Bexley & District Canine Association Open Show
17th Mar 2024
Judge: Lauren Goddard (Awbrooksky)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG4, Arunmere Artemis
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
National Terrier Club
6th Apr 2024
Judge: Miss Elspeth Jackson (Clipstone)
Thanks to the National Terrier Club for their invitation to judge at this prestigious show and to the exhibitors who did me the honour of judging their dogs. I was lucky to have two efficient stewards who kept things running smoothly, thank you Laura and Dave.
The entry showed a good depth of quality. In many classes the places were hotly contested with decisions needing to be made on the narrowest of margins. I was very pleased to find that there were some good coats on thick pelts and the nice thick short tails which set off a good border so well.
Yearling - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Crystal Palace Canine Association Dog Show
14th Apr 2024
Judge: Miss Angie Nettle (Onziemehurst)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for the invitation to judge at their well run open show. A big thank you to my ring stewards who kept things moving along nicely and many thanks to the exhibitors for allowing me the privilege of going over your lovely dogs.
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
Feminine grizzle bitch. Soft attractive face with deep brown eyes and short stop. Full of confidence, keen expression, correctly placed teeth in a strong jaw. Nicely placed ears, tight to the head. She has a straight front and stood on strong pasterns, good second thigh which allowed her to move with ease. Good lay of shoulder and nice tight cat like feet. Tail set well. Pleased to give her RBB
Hitchin & District Canine Society Open Show
21st Apr 2024
Judge: Derfel Owen (Sirfon)
Junior /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Chelmsford & District Canine Society Open Show
6th May 2024
Judge: Dave Lee (Socksdown)
Special Yearling /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Scottish Kennel Club (Ocober)
16th May 2024
Judge: Mr. Stewart Golding (Beaconpike)
Sorry for delay in critiques, work commitments had to take priority. Thank you to the committee for inviting me to judge the October show which was brought forward in conjunction with the May show. Thank you to my two stewards for keeping the ring running smoothly, which wasn’t easy with two shows running side by side. Thank you to the Exhibitors for a lovely entry and accepting my decisions in a sportsmanlike manner. I had some difficult decisions especially in the bitch classes where I just didn’t have enough cards to hand out. Coats from last time I judged had improved and it was a pleasure to see so many in correct double coat of depth. On the whole movement was good. I did find a couple of incorrect bites and one kinked tail
Yearling - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Class Critique
A super class where I wish I had more cards to hand out
Bath Canine Society
26th May 2024
Judge: Mr Ian Higham (Comberdown)
I would like to thank Mr. Lee Cox and the officers and committee of Bath Canine Society for making my wife and I feel so welcome at their show. Also my two amazingly competent stewards Mark and Joyce who were just brilliant at their job.
I found nothing obviously untoward or concerning, apart from, surprisingly, a few too heavy ones, which cost placings. We need to remember functionality.
In general, overall, this was an entry of terrific in-depth quality. What an absolute privilege it was to go over them. Thank you all so much!
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
A very pretty typical grizzle. Nothing over done. Lovely head. Narrow right through and easily spanned with ribs well back. Harsh jacket. Moved very well and she was handled with confidence. Close call between these two.
Reading & District KA Open Show
29th May 2024
Judge: Mr Kevin Yeates (Bluebabel)
My thanks to Reading & District in giving me this appointment. Unfortunately I didn’t have a big entry on the day.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
Nice feminine head, short muzzle, correct dentition. Ears well set close to the cheek, ribs carried well back, easily spanned, tail well set on, good coat with thick pelt. Pleased to award Best of Breed.
Southern Counties Canine Association
1st Jun 2024
Judge: Dr Ian Gabriel (Gabybryl)
This was my first-time awarding Challenge Certificates in Border Terriers and many thanks to those that entered under a non-breed specialist, and well done for braving what was a bitter wind. If this was a representative entry, then I am heartened by the general health and condition of the breed. Good coats, good pelts and super large dentition were the majority. There are some nice youngsters in the lower classes. Just two points as a non-specialist if I might be permitted, firstly the standard calls for a small ear and I found quite a few otherwise nice exhibits with large houndy ears which did somewhat detract from the overall expression. Secondly several dogs broke quite markedly at the front pastern which spoilt the overall impression on the move, these points need watching.
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Three Counties Agricultural Society
8th Jun 2024
Judge: Mr Eddie Houston (Earthwise)
My thanks to the Society for inviting me, to my very capable stewards, Bill and Tricia for their efficiency and helpfulness and especially to the exhibitors who afforded me the honour of going over their dogs.
The weather was kind and the ring of sufficient size to allow dogs to get into their stride.
Overall I felt that there was more quality in the bitches but was more than pleased with my main winners in both sexes. Size and front movement continue to be problems and coats were at all stages of growth-this did affect some placings. I only found one undershot bite and all males were entire. Several dogs were carrying rather too much condition but more worrying were the few who were almost painfully thin which also meant that these dogs couldn’t possibly possess the muscle needed for work. A number of dogs would benefit from more exercise to improve their muscletone.
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
9th Jun 2024
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Bailey (Grindelvald)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for asking me to judge their show, it was an honour. Also for making David and myself so welcomed and the enjoyable lunch. The quality of the Borders were pleasing to go over. Big thank you to my stewards Julie and Robert, keep the classes running smoothly all day. Finally thank you to all the exhibitors who braved the cold weather, it did stay dry and allowing me to go over their dogs. All the males were entire, as usual the coats were at various stages which cost some dogs higher placing. Some wide fronts let them down, large ears were a problem in some exhibits. I was delighted with all my winners such quality.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
Another nice head, not as narrow as 1, longer in back, moved well, in nice coat, showed and presented well
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
2ND JB
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
29th Jun 2024
Judge: Mrs Margaret Sneddon (Kersfell)
I would like to thank the Committee for offering me this appointment, I was honoured to be given this opportunity. Thank you also to my stewards for all their hard work keeping the show running as smoothly as possible, for which I was very grateful. There were some lovely dogs present but front movement and lack of correct length and angulation of the upper arm continues to be a problem in some exhibits as well as size and correct coat . We should not forget the first line in the breed standard “essentially a working terrier”.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
grizzle with a lovely, feminine head that has a good skull, short muzzle and good bite; dark eyes with keen expression, nice neat ears. Straight front, good feet; narrow throughout and easily spanned. Excellent deep coat and good pelt; level topline, which she kept on the move and a short, thick tail. Beautiful movement, free striding and true with good drive.
Windsor Championship Dog Show
29th Jun 2024
Judge: Mrs Sandra Girling (Benattivo)
Thank you to the officers and committee of Windsor Championship Dog Show for the invitation to judge at this level for the first time at such a prestigious show. I must also thank my two very experienced stewards Bill & Trish Gray who were a great support to me with their calm, friendly and pleasant manner. I would also like to express my sincere thanks to all the exhibitors who entered their border terriers under me and accepted my decisions in a sporting manner.
The weather became very hot as the day progressed with some dogs flagging a little on the move. Fortunately we had some shade via the marquee, the grass had got quite dried out and I felt a few exhibits didn’t move as well as others on it but generally movement was better than I have observed in the past. I must also mention how disappointed I was to find so many exhibits with dirty teeth, cleaning them should be part of a dog’s care and grooming routine.
I was so delighted with my top winning border terriers that I felt had exceptional breed quality and were presented and shown to best advantage.
Many quality exhibits were in some classes down the line or unplaced due to the depth of quality present and on another day may change places.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
This grizzle/tan has a lovely otter like head moderately broad skull, short strong muzzle, good teeth and neat v shaped ears with dark eyes. She is narrow through with good straight front legs and neat feet. Her rib is well carried back and spans behind the shoulder easily she has a good top line and strong loin her tail is thick at the base and set on well and carroty in shape. Her deep jacket was harsh and her pelt was thick and loose. She moved from all angles with accuracy and drive. I liked her a lot and was on my short list in the challenge.
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
5th Jul 2024
Judge: Miss Anita Harrison (Iacheslei)
Many thanks to the committee for the invitation to judge. Everyone worked hard throughout the day to ensure it ran smoothly. There were a few clashes with the main Boston Championship show but these were well managed. Thanks also to the competitors for accepting my decisions in a sporting manner and creating a wonderful atmosphere around the ring.
There was a super entry of 172 dogs making 217 entries which I found both exciting and daunting, having had a total knee replacement operation just weeks before!
Overall, I found the standard of exhibits was good. Coats were a mixture ranging from pure undercoat to absolute perfection. The majority of exhibits were spannable. All dogs were entire. I found just one undershot mouth. I forgave loose movement in some of the younger dogs which will hopefully tighten as they mature, but adults moving wide or close had to be penalised. Several lacked bone and substance, being on the leg as well as short coupled making the outline somewhat squarer than I was looking for. Handling was generally good, with one very professional young handler who really impressed me with her skills. My main winners were presented in stunning condition, and I had some difficult decisions to make in the higher classes, wishing I could award more than just one Challenge Certificate.
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
grizzle with pretty head, correct topline and tailset. good length of rib, moved well
Boston & District Canine Society
5th Jul 2024
Judge: Julie Green (Breckgreen & Stowthorney)
I would like to thanks the officers and committee of Boston and District Canine society for inviting me to give my first set of tickets in Border Terriers. It was such a well-run show and in such a lovely setting. I would also like to thank the exhibitors who entered under me. Thanks also to my two stewards who kept the ring moving for me on the day.
All in all, I was happy with my entry. I found all males to be entire and no kinked tails on the day. A couple of mouths that were not quite correct.
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
Grizzle Bitch of nice type. Has a lovely feminine head with a good expression. Good reach of neck into a well laid shoulder. Good topline which she held on the move. Shown in a harsh double jacket with good pelt. Moved well
Southampton & DCS Open Show
21st Jul 2024
Judge: Gillian Knight (Talanors)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, Arunmere Artemis
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Tunbridge Wells & District Canine Society Open Show
27th Jul 2024
Judge: Mr Matt Smith (Alncroft)
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Paignton Championship Show
2nd Aug 2024
Judge: Tracey Anscombe (Orangebox)
Thank you to the officers and committee for my first-time appointment at this level. This show is my ‘local’ which made it even more special, If you have never been it is worth the trip down the M5 a warm welcome will meet you.
I was thrilled with the quality of my entry, one observation I did find a lot of untidy feet, splayed toes, long nails and thin pads, I did however find no kinked tails and only one mouth fault.
Yearling - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
Well-handled grizzle with plenty of breed type although of a larger frame that 1 and 2 she has a good length of neck into well-structured shoulders and rib making her easy to span. Attractive head with good expression. She moved well around the ring.
Bournemouth Championship Show
12th Aug 2024
Judge: Mrs Wendy Mooney (Chesterton)
Thank you to my stewards, Hayley and Malcolm and to all the exhibitors who endured the heat and accepted my decisions sportingly, on what must have been one of the hottest days of the year. Overall the quality of the entry was good with some lovely dogs. Mouths, tails and size were generally good. Coats varied (as they always do) in both quality and the stage of growth. There were a number of pelts that could have been thicker and loose which was disappointing as this is mentioned in the standard and important from a working point of view. I was surprised and disappointed to see evidence of scissorwork on some coats and grooming was not always done to the dog’s best advantage – this does not affect the ability to work but this is a dog show and presentation therefore does count to a degree when placing the dogs. Compared to the last time I judged, I felt that size had improved and in most cases the dogs today were closer to the standard.
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
Another promising youngster – grizzle and tan in good coat. Similar remarks as first. Winner had a better head and coat than second however
Horley & DSS Premier Open Show
25th Aug 2024
Judge: Philip Fricker (Calavey)
Open /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
The Southern Border Terrier Club Open Show
15th Sep 2024
Judge: Mrs Sue Baxter (Mysulan/Sulan)
I must start by thanking the committee for the invitation to judge at this lovely venue. The weather was kind to us and judging was able to take place outside , a fact I know so many exhibitors enjoy. My thanks also must go to my stewards , Rachel and Rhianne Mitchell , they certainly kept things running smoothly and were a big help keeping me on track ! Thanks ladies!
As usual , my gratitude to all who gave me entries and were able to turn up on the day , all very much appreciated .
I was presented with an array of lovely specimens and some classes made for some tough decisions .Several times I wished there were more red cards to award. The standard , I found, was very good and there was quality in depth in most classes. All males were intact , I found no kinked tails and most mouths were acceptable , coats , as usual , were in differing stages of growth and texture . All were spannable.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
21 months . Handy size grizzle girl nice in profile , very well balanced and not overdone .Headpiece feminine with not too much stop , has a decent ammount of underjaw . Neck leads into well angulated front . Well ribbed back , coat and pelt good.. Moved out well .
South Wales Kennel Association
13th Oct 2024
Judge: Mrs Trudi Baird (Dowgri)
I was honoured to accept SWKA's invitation to judge at their championship dog show where I received a warm welcome,even on cold day!
A Big applause to my two fabulous stewards ( I’m so sorry I forgot to make a note of your names – you were so appreciated by myself and the exhibitors)
It was such a very cold day inside the halls ,though myself being on my feet continuously moving,I kept warm.Unsurprisingly some dogs were feeling the chill and shivering on the table which showed how cold it was.
I was honoured and humbled to have such a fabulous entry both numerically and in quality, especially the limit & Open dog classes where I can quite rightly use the old cliche “I wish I had more cards to give out “, it's unfortunate when you have to let some dogs go unplaced that had great appeal, but such was the quality today .
Before my journey back to Cornwall that day I managed to stay and watch the groups where both the BoB & BPIB gave fantastic accounts of themselves, the exciting puppy gaining PGrp 1, he went back for the final day to go all the way to BPIS.
We were sadly unfortunate to have a large Terrier breed crated close by who's owners seemed unaware of the their unattended dogs behaviour ,every time human or dog traffic went by it caused them to “ kick off “frequently .This isn't fair on dogs on the table being examined or dogs on the move, therefore I had to stop judging twice until attempts to quieten the offending dogs were made.
A few points of note were-
A small handful of youngsters lacked body condition, I could feel ribs with no covering teamed with thin pelts. I believe diet & exercise comes into play here so consider what & how much you’re feeding , plus good exercise regime
Mouths were disappointing ,some with very small teeth & more untidy bites than I've encountered in the past.
Movement was ok in the main though it let down some otherwise beautiful exhibits who looked a picture stood but sadly fell apart on the move, we had the odd flicking out front foot , plaiting fronts, crabbing , wide rears & some loosing their top lines.
Lastly a plea – it would help immensely if exhibitors didn’t use excess bait on the table while a judge is trying hard to get a good clear look at bites ,it meant a fight to get a proper view of the mouth while a dog is having bait pushed in or the dog is busily chewing . Holding off baiting until the judge has got past the head would be most helpful.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
Placing Critique
Very attractive feminine grizzle & tan with a gorgeous Otter head.
Excellent neat narrow front with good bone and small tight feet.
Balanced in outline with ideal length of body & ribs well back. Good short tail well set & nicely carried on the move. Presented in tight harsh coat with excellent thick pelt. Easy to span. Liked the muscle condition & her thick loose pelt.
Moved well out and back and I considered her in the challenge. Liked her a lot.
Midland Counties Canine Society
25th Oct 2024
Judge: Professor A S Milton (Baillieswells)
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Arunmere Artemis
