Show Placings
Border Union Championship Show
19th Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs Jayne Alpe (Pipruda)
First of all I would like to thank the committee for the appointment, the exhibitors for their entry and my stewards for keeping my ring controlled which enabled me to finish judging well in time for the groups. Judy you can steward for me anytime thank you. I was thrilled that my BOB not only won the Terrier Group but went on to Best in Show, my BPIB was placed in the Puppy Group as was my BV in the Veteran Group. Due to COVID this is my first appointment since 2017 and I am pleased to say that I can see a vast improvement in movement since then but overall the quality in bitches was far superior to the dogs, I have large hands and spannability was in the minority in most dog classes. In the standard it says Essentially a Working Terrier, many would be unable to get down a hole let alone get out again!
Minor Puppy - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Puppy - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Royal Cheshire County Show
22nd Jun 2022
Judge: Carmel Clarke O'Neill (Lemracdream)
Puppy /
Third Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Blackpool & District Canine Society
26th Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs Trak Fryer (Irton)
Thanks to the exhibitors for a lovely entry, much appreciated in these difficult times. Thanks also to my stewards who not only kept the ring moving well but proved very adept at fielding judging slips, ring cards and prize cards and miscellaneous other bits and pieces flying across the ring in a very blustery wind. I thought it would be better to judge outside, the wind did upset a few dogs and those with a lot of coat were truly blown. The Border is essentially a working terrier that should combine activity with gameness – I thought that worth repeating since some seem to have forgotten it! I managed to find good heads but in general they were not strong, the head and jaw is not a cosmetic addition but an essential part of the terrier’s make up. Feet and pelts were OK but very few could be regarded as really good, again they are an essential feature required for the work the dog was bred for. Coats were all over the place very few being presented in a good sharp deep coat, however most were acceptable.
Movement remains a problem, there were feet flicking out, plaiting in front, bouncing up and down or rocking on the front – all problems with shoulder construction. The best move with that lovely unfussy ground covering drive that is so typical of the breed.
I was surprised to find several exhibits with level bites, I know the standard allows for this but it is undesirable, particularly in young dogs.
Having said all that I did find a good number of excellent very typical dogs, Limit & Open classes in both sexes were excellent and there were some promising puppies coming along.
Minor Puppy - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Windsor Championship Dog Show
1st Jul 2022
Judge: Mr David G Winsley (Davmar)
I last judged the breed in 2017 so most of the dogs were new to me. I felt that the breed is losing that ‘ otter head’ appearance, fore-faces appearing to be too long. Poor front construction in many was a deciding factor in my placing, our ring didn’t help, but the conditions were the same for everyone.
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
Litter brother to the winner of MPD & so very similar. He also has a nice shape with a good head & expression. Good neck, level back with the correct tailset. Good body, with well made hindquarters. In good coat & moved well for his age.
East of England Agricultural Society Open Show
6th Jul 2022
Judge: Julie Green (Breckgreen & Stowthorney)
Firstly, I would like to thank the committee of East of England Agricultural Society for asking me to judge and secondly the exhibitors for their amazing entry of border terriers they gave me. I believe the highest entry of the show. I found no bad mouths or kinked tails on the day.
Junior /
Third Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
East of England
9th Jul 2022
Judge: Mr Bob Blackley (Vaevictus)
Graduate - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
The Northern Border Terrier Club 50th Championship Show
16th Jul 2022
Judge: Mr Euan Castel (Flutorum)
It was an honour to judge the Club’s 50th Championship Show at Bowburn. Many thanks to the Officers and committee for their kind invitation and warm welcome at the show. Thank you to my efficient stewards Graham Richardson and Mark Atkinson for keeping everything on track. Thankfully the show avoided the excessive temperatures of the heatwave and although still hot the hall remained comfortable for both dogs and exhibitors. Sincere thanks to all exhibitors for providing me with a lovely entry, it was a privilege to go over your dogs. I found an equal depth of quality in both dogs and bitches and very pleased with the final line-ups.
Maiden - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
Light grizzle of nice size and balance. Otter like head with well placed eye and ear. Good front and tight feet. Level topline. Well placed carroty tail. Good rear quarters. Moved well.
Novice - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
2nd in Maiden dog.
Leeds Championship Dog Show
22nd Jul 2022
Judge: Mrs J Fawcett (Carrock)
My thanks to the Leeds City & District Canine Association for their kind invitation to judge their Championship show, enabling me to award my first set of Challenge Certificates. Thank you also to my two stewards, Mags & Bob, who kept the ring running smoothly throughout the day which meant we managed to finish by 3pm before the rain came. My biggest thanks go to all the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to go over their dogs and for the sporting manner in which my decisions were accepted – I had a fantastic entry for a show taking place on a Friday and in the holiday season – I was absolutely delighted.
Just a comment about the ring – the rather large metal tent fixings that took up quite a lot of the ring were a bit of a hazard. However, I believe we managed to work around them well and I was able to see the movement of all the exhibits.
As you would expect, coats were at various stages but on the whole most were acceptable. All dogs were entire, there were no kinked tails and just one or two untidy mouths. When I last judged in November 2019 my main concern was size and this still remains an issue - I was unable to span quite a number of both dogs & bitches on the day and this was reflected in my decisions. Poor front angulation also seems to be an issue – a number of upright shoulders and a lot of very wayward front legs. I thought it also relevant to mention the number of long, thin muzzles, particularly in the younger classes, that seem to be creeping into the breed - Border Terriers should have short, strong muzzles.
That all said, I had some quality dogs to judge – I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Graduate - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
York Canine Association Open Show
30th Jul 2022
Judge: Mr Ken Fraser (Ycart)
Best Puppy
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
Red grizzle Dog keen alert expression correct bite, spanned with ease, thick pelt, good texture of coat turned out well. Moved around the ring steadily. Best Puppy in breed.
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Carlisle & District Canine Society Open Show
31st Jul 2022
Judge: Dr Margaret Armstrong (Ploughdown)
I’d like to offer my thanks to Carlisle and District Canine Society for asking me to judge Borders on the day and to the committee of the Border Terrier Club for proposing me for the appointment. It was a very bright, sunny day so being inside the arena gave the exhibitors and the exhibits some relief from the heat. Although generally Borders prefer the open air and often give of their best outside. I’d like to offer my appreciation to my steward on the day for his efficient and effective management of the classes; he was super. My thanks also go to the exhibitors who entered their dogs and were so pleasant and sporting in accepting my placings. My decisions were based on how I saw the dogs on the day and some decisions were very close.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
Attractive grizzle 7 month old puppy. Good head proportions with short, strong muzzle for his age. Correct bite. Dark, keen eye and neat ears. Narrow throughout and easily spanned, with a good length and shape of rib, carried well back. Rear angulation good. Neat feet. Textured double coat and some depth of pelt. Level topline that he kept on the move. Tail set on well. Moved with purpose and shown to perfection.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Welsh Kennel Club
21st Aug 2022
Judge: Mr T Johnston
Novice - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
Another good headed youngster with dark eye of good type. Good bone, legs and feet. Liked his balance and overall quality, well set tail, was spanable and has good pelt, moved well. Another with lots to like.
Wolsingham & Wear Valley Agricultural Society Open Show
4th Sep 2022
Judge: Tracey Anscombe (Orangebox)
Thank you to the committee for the invitation to judge at your show and providing the steward, Lesley. She was brilliant keeping the ring and me in order! The classes were supported by the Northern Border Terrier Club which I know is greatly appreciated and lovely rosettes provided. I believe that not only did we have the biggest terrier entry but the biggest breed entry in the show. Thank you to everyone who entered, I thoroughly enjoyed my day. The weather held and no umbrellas required resulting in a pleasant ringside atmosphere and lovely exhibits to judge giving me a lot to think about.
Puppy /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
Litter brother to one whose head is more developed in appearance and expression. Slightly more compacted than his brother in appearance, moved well around the ring resulting in a very close decision between the two. Today I felt that 1 was in slightly better coat.
Junior /
Third Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
The Scottish Kennel Club (October Show)
1st Oct 2022
Judge: Mr G Richardson
I would like to thank the Scottish Kennel Club for offering me the chance to award C.Cs for the first time, thanks to their hospitality i had a very enjoyable experience . Thank you to the exhibitors for accepting my decisions in a sporting manner . Also thank you to my very efficient Steward on the day Judy Carr , with her experience she kept the day flowing excellently. Overall I was very pleased with the dogs placed on the day, generally there was a better quality bitch entry compared to dogs. Movement and wide fronts was an issue with some exhibits but generally ok. I was happy to see my B.P, take Puppy Group 2 and B.S.B.I.B. take S.B. Group 1 .
Puppy - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
South Wales Kennel Association
6th Oct 2022
Judge: Mr Stewart Golding (Beaconpike)
Thank you to the committee for inviting me to judge, this was my first time awarding CC’s. Thank you to my stewards for keeping the ring running smoothly. A big thank you must go to the exhibitors for a good entry especially on a Thursday in the middle of Wales in the current climate we live in. I only have a couple of concerns. Movement is paramount in our breed and these dogs should be able to cover ground easily I found due to poor shoulder angulation a few had restrained front movement. I did forgive coat in class placings where evidence of a new coat was present, however I did find a lot of single coated dogs possibly down to over grooming, my main winners all had correct double coat of depth. I had a very enjoyable day, thank you to everyone for accepting my decisions gracefully.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
Nice typical otter head, handy size youngster of nice breed type, shown in short tight coat with thick pelt, moved well once settled, lots to like was unlucky to meet 1 today.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
8th Oct 2022
Judge: Mr R Brewster (Stowthorney)
I would like to thank the officers and committee of the Northern Border terrier club,
for inviting me to judge at this show. I considered this a great honour and privilege.
Many thanks to my two ring stewards Andrea Dixon and Mark Atkinson for keeping the ring running smoothly. I am immensely grateful to all of the exhibitors for a supper entry and the chance to go over so many lovely dogs and for taking my decisions with good sportsmanship. Some decisions could have been different on another day
In general, most were in tip top condition a few were a bit over weight.
Dentition was mostly good. I was happy on the whole with temperaments.
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
A smaller puppy than 1st but shown in good condition. Good head and correct dentition. shown with a harsh jacket good pelt moved well.
Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association Open Show
16th Oct 2022
Judge: Mrs M Wanless (Thorneyburn)
This was a last minute appointment for me, as Tina Jones had to stand down at the last moment owing to her Mothers serious illness.
What a super entry she had drawn!!! fifty one 1st entries and six repeats.
All dogs shown had good mouths, almost all had thick pelts and super harsh jackets.
All dogs were entire, and most were easily spanned.
Best Puppy
Name at show: BPIS, Raedwulf Daybreak
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
What a striking Puppy!, !0 months old,he stood well and confidently for his handler .A lovely head,with good teeth, a dark eye and neat ears, into good neck and shoulder,he stood on neat feet,nice for bone. Well presented, he moved out well and with confidence. Loved him!! Pleased to give him BP in Breed, And. was delighted to see him go Bpinhow.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
1st in puppy
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
1st in Puppy.
Selby Canine Society Open Show
29th Oct 2022
Judge: Peter Armstrong (Atron) & Lesley Armstrong-Rodgers ( Atron/Scottsway )
Sincere thanks go firstly, to the Committee for inviting me to judge at their Show, Secondly to the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity of going over their dogs and last, but not least, to my Steward, Marina Fleming, for her assistance in keeping the ring running smoothly. Judge Peter Armstrong
My thanks must go to the Officers and hard working Committee for the kind invitation to judge at their Open Show. It was a quality entry of bitches, so thank you to all exhibitors for bringing them and for their sporting acceptance of my decisions. I would also like to thank my two stewards for keeping the ring running in an orderly manner. Judge Lesley Armstrong
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
Another promising 10 month old Grizzle dog, who it was hard to believe was litter brother to the winner, being of a completely different type. Classic male head, good in foreface, dark eye and well set on ears, Straight front construction, with a strong neck set into laid back shoulders. Easily came to hand. Narrow throughout. Good angulation both front and rear. Presented in decent coat and pelt. Although preferring his head to that of his brother movement today was not quite as accurate and his placing suffered accordingly.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Midland Counties Canine Society
30th Oct 2022
Judge: Mr Alan Small (Bethane)
I thoroughly enjoyed my day judging the Border Teriers at Midland Counties Champ. Show. Thanks to the Officers & Committee for the invite & especially to the exhibitors who presented me with such a wonderful entry of 230 from 174 dogs. It was a quality entry overall and I was particuarly impressed with the quality of the young stock which augers well for the breed. There's no Puppy or Veteran Groups at the Midland, which is a pity because I feel both would have done well. Must not be too greedy, as it was nice to see my BOB, Ch. Otterbobs Tolson top the Terrier Group and my Best Special Beginners, Thistlemead Sundance, take her respective Group as well.....Well done.
Special thanks to my Ring Stewards, Penny Lloyd & Gavin Argyle, who kept things moving along nicely. Border Terriers are dear to my heart having owned & bred them over a number of years. Thanks again for such a wonderful entry, I enjoyed your dogs and a nice atmosphere prevailed.
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
smaller youngster but completely balanced, typy head, lovely front & feet, nice neck to well laid shoulders, pleasing spanable body. Went well.
Junior - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
12th Nov 2022
Judge: Mr Eddie Houston (Earthwise)
I won my first Crufts qualifier at this show 25 years ago and it has always been one of my favourites. It was an honour to be invited to judge and my thanks go to the Scottish Club for their hospitality. Thanks also to my very capable stewards Bill Shorthose and Judy Carr.My sincere thanks to all those who entered and allowed me the privilege of going over their dogs.
Today I found there to be a much greater depth of quality among the bitches with there being many promising puppies and some very nice animals in the upper classes,particularly limit and open. This depth of quality was not apparent in a number of the dog classes although I was pleased with my main winners.
As would be expected there was some diversity in size and type.A number of exhibits of both sexes were up to size- I have big hands so if I find them difficult to span they are probably too big. I found all males to be entire, no serious mouth faults and one kinked tail.Of most concern was the number of dogs with very poor front movement and the number with atypical heads; some too long in muzzle and a few where the muzzle was too short, the latter giving a rather cat like look. Coats and pelts were generally good and a few dogs would benefit from more exercise to improve their muscletone.A fairly minor fault, but one which detracts from the overall outline, were the dogs which carried their tails curled over their backs i.e “gay tailed” as opposed to carrying their tails gaily.
Some of these faults are aesthetic but others such as size and soundness are not and we should be mindful that our breed is “essentially a working terrier.”
Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
Smart red of 11 months.Good size, well presented and handled.Masculine head with good bite and ear placement,Neat feet.Moved well enough behind but needs to tighten in front.
Sunderland & DCS Open Show
27th Nov 2022
Judge: Mrs Sue Spafford (Dassett)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for the invitation to judge at this show. I would also like to thank my Steward, Linda Lyons for keeping the classes running smoothly and efficiently.
Best Puppy
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
A puppy that took my eye straight away. Lovely otter head, flowing into good reach of neck, good top line and tail set. Easily spanned, very well presented. Best Puppy and glad to hear went onto Terrier Puppy Group 1.
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
As per 1st placed puppy.
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Eston & Barnaby Canine Society Christmas Open Show
4th Dec 2022
Judge: Glenn Birrell
Thank you to the Officers and Committee of Eston & Barnaby DC for inviting me to judge at my first show. It was a very overwhelming to have such a large entry of 15 from some of the top kennel’s in the country, with only 2 absentee’s. This made my decision’s very difficult and I had to be very thorough in making my placements. Thank you to my helpful steward, John who kept the ring running smoothly and helping me with documentation .
I enjoyed my day, unfortunately I wish I had more 1st places!, due to the quality of my entry. Thanks must also go to all the exhibitors who gave me the chance to go over their dogs, even though I was a little nervous as having experienced Exhibitor’s who award CC’s !! I was Pleased my BOB went on to TG1 & RBIS also BP was TPG1.
Puppy /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
Grizzle Dog We’ll proportioned & of a handy size, nothing overdone! completely balanced, great otter head, Straight front & well padded feet, well laid shoulders, easily spanned body, moved well. A hard decision, unlucky a mixed class 1 had more presence in line up.
Ladies Kennel Association
11th Dec 2022
Judge: Mr John Bainbridge (Risdene)
A very promising entry on paper but unfortunately the weather took its toll !
However I was more than happy with my main winners all were typical of what I look for in a Border Terrier and the proof that careful breeding pays off was demonstrated by the very promising progeny found amongst the youngsters.
As is my approach to critiques, generally the winners in most respects all meet the standard which calls for a working terrier with an otter like head on reasonable length neck set into well laid shoulders, a moderate length body, well ribbed back, strong shortish loin, racy but moderate rear angulation allowing the dog to move with drive, in harsh double coat and with thick pelt. I do not therefore repeat this for each individual dog but I have highlighted the dog’s best points and the reasons for their placings .
Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
Preferred the front assembly of winner.
Penrith & DCS Open Show
18th Dec 2022
Judge: Gillian Knight (Talanors)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, Raedwulf Daybreak
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Manchester Championship Show
20th Jan 2023
Judge: Mrs Patsy Hollings (Gunalt)
Junior - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Class Critique
overall a quality class
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
28th Jan 2023
Judge: Dr. Margaret Armstrong (Ploughdown)
I’d like to thank Yorks, Lancs and Cheshire Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their January Open Show. It was a privilege. I was given a really warm welcome and the hospitality was second to none. The venue was bright and airy and provided for a large ring with plenty of room for exhibitors. I was very ably assisted on the day by my two stewards, Margaret Davis and Sian McKay, who organised the ring with cheerful good humour and efficiency. It was also super to be present for the presentation by the Club to Pat and Brian Baxter, who always add a convivial and kindly presence to any gathering. Lastly I’d like to thank the exhibitors for coming out in numbers in chilly January and who accepted my placings with such good grace.
Junior - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Crufts
11th Mar 2023
Judge: Mr David Shields (Wilholme)
To judge Border Terriers at Crufts was both a privilege and a honour and I must thank the Crufts Committee for the appointment to judge the breed at what is the greatest dog show in the world. A big thanks go to the exhibitors from both home and abroad for such a super entry which made for a great days judging with quality in depth in many of the classes. Finally I must thank my two stewards who kept things moving in the ring to allow me to finish judging in good time.
On the day I was looking for a workmanlike dog as the standard asks for but one also must remember that in the show ring you also need that attitude and showmanship to complete the picture. I felt my BOB put up a great show in the Group and was so pleased to see him take Group 2 in a quality line up.
Junior - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
West of England Ladies Kennel Society
27th Apr 2023
Judge: Mr Mark Walshaw (Janmark)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for the invitation to judge at WELKS, it was quite a few years ago now, as I was due to judge them at the beginning of lockdown. Due to the heavy rain that had fallen over the preceding days, all judging was inside. It was slightly draughty, but we were allocated a double ring, so plenty of space, to see the exhibits stride out. I must thank the two stewards Lynn Jones and Celia Vines who kept the ring flowing beautifully and the exhibitors for making prompt appearances, we did well for time, starting approx. 0930 and finishing around 14:45. I thank all exhibitors for a wonderful entry (123 dogs making 172 entries} for a Thursday in Malvern and appreciate their time and expense for entering under me. There was plenty of quality to choose from and I was happy with my final decisions. Dentition was very good and a pleasure to judge dogs with clean teeth. I did find muscle tone to be poor/average in a lot of the exhibits, which must be one of the key areas for any working terrier. Jackets were mixed as was movement.
Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak
Placing Critique
Attractive grizzle with good head proportions, short, strong muzzle, clean bite and a dark keen expressive eye, tidy neat ears finished the picture. Narrow through a clean front and easily spanned. He has a good length of rib,which is carried well back. Rear angulation ok, racey rear.Tidy feet. Decent jacket and pelt, which was well presented.He moved with purpose, keeping a level topline, with well set tail carried well, he was shown to advantage
Joint Border Terrier Clubs' Championship Show
30th Apr 2023
Judge: Mrs Hilary Gilpin (Otterbobs)
A very big thank you to the SBTC for inviting me to judge this very well run show, to Marina for stewarding and to the exhibitors for entering under me.
Graduate - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
Bath Canine Society
29th May 2023
Judge: Mrs Anne Gregory (Remony)
My thanks to the officers and committee of Bath Canine Society for inviting me to judge today. A big thank you to my two very efficient stewards, Mark and Joyce, who kept the ring running smoothly and efficiently. Thank you also to the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to go over their dogs, it is always a privilege to do so. I was disappointed not to have been able to stay and watch the groups but circumstances outwith my control prevented me from doing so.
While there were plenty of good ‘otter’ heads in evidence, I found some heads lacking in muzzle strength and some with stops that were too deep, neither of which is desirable. Some exhibits were too heavy in frame and consequently didn’t come to hand easily. Some dogs had weak pasterns and feet that could have been tighter. Coats were at varying stages, with some in their underclothes, some just going over the top, and in some cases, this was a deciding factor. Overall, movement was good with correct tracking, plenty of drive off well angulated hindquarters and good length of stride. Some dogs could have benefited from more ring training and, at times, baiting on the table was excessive. A dog scrambling to get to bait makes it more difficult to assess. On a positive note, I did have some quality dogs to go over and was well pleased with my winners and final line-up. I was also pleased to see my Best Veteran win the Terrier Veteran Group, my Best Puppy shortlisted in the Terrier Puppy Group and my Best Special Beginners, Special Beginners Terrier Group 4
Graduate - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
Border Union Agricultural Society
17th Jun 2023
Judge: Mr Colin Girling (Benattivo)
I would like to thank the Officers and Committee for giving me the opportunity to judge Border Terriers in their spiritual home territory. My stewards, Audrey & Judith did a great job in running the class changes efficiently on a hot humid day. It was a lovely entry, with many exhibits that I had not judged before – thank you all. I found some exhibits which could have been better prepared with attention to coat, body condition and clean teeth. A few level bites a couple of kink tails influenced placings but all dogs were entire and overall a nice group of BT’s to go over. My main winners had breed qualities that outweighed any imperfection, that in my opinion wouldn’t impact on its ability to perform its traditional work.
Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
Placing Critique
Smaller in stature, this dog has so many good qualities that fit the standard so well, including otter like head with neat V shaped, well placed ears, harsh double jacket over good pelt, good shoulder and rear angulation. Not over exaggerated in any way, he carried his top-line well on the move and kept showing with enthusiasm in the challenge.
Windsor Championship Dog Show
29th Jun 2023
Judge: Professor S P Dean (Tyrian)
My thanks to Windsor Dog Show for the judging appointment. Delayed by Covid, it is a sensible moment to retire from judging at Championship level, especially as the day was very enjoyable and a fine memory to end with. It was in fact a superb entry of high quality border terriers and my thanks to all the exhibitors, especially those who travelled long distances.
It was a delight when my BOB, Ch Otterbobs Tolsen, won the terrier group and an additional pleasure when my Best Veteran, Ch Cynetkoy Pillow Talk, placed third in the Veteran Group. Overall the borders proved to be sound and it was particularly enjoyable to find several dogs with large, strong teeth. Many were in a fit condition with firm muscle and active drive on the move. The majority had good shoulders coupled with hind quarters that looked capable of a day’s work. This correct construction translated into to good movement. The Border Terrier should remain a workmanlike terrier and future breeders need to keep that in mind.
The top decisions were decided by some of these less obvious merits and indeed my personal preferences but, in the end, I was pleased to see an entry of border terriers with so much quality. This bodes well for the future and has left me with memories of a most enjoyable day.
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
Placing Critique
Smaller type presented well, with typical strength in head and muzzle and made well throughout. Nice strong, well let down hocks. Shown in lovely coat and moved well.
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.
Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
Placing Critique
Lighter grizzle dog with a super head and expression, smaller build and a harsh jacket. He just wasn’t as positive on the move.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
15th Jul 2023
Judge: Mr David Fryer (Irton)
My thanks to the Club for trusting me with a fine entry of dogs at this, one of my favourite shows; to my stewards for their understated efficiency which kept the show rolling; and to the exhibitors for the opportunity to go over their dogs, and for the sporting acceptance of my decisions.
The Border Terrier Breed Standard is a very brief document; as such, it needs some interpretation. The clue is in the first clause of it; ‘Essentially a working terrier’. This, together with a knowledge of the work the breed is traditionally expected to perform, gives an idea of the dog required. Thus we need a dog which can keep with the hunt over rough moorland country in what may be inclement weather, and then be able to go to ground and bolt or hold it’s own to a cornered fox. This implies sound, efficient movement, adequate heart and lung room, a weatherproof double coat and a thick, pliable pelt; but at the same time be small enough and flexible enough to follow a fox to ground .
Overall, I found most exhibits to be sound, and well presented (sometimes ‘overpresented’ to the extent that coats had more appearance than substance). The most prevalent fault I observed was untidy, converging front movement; an inevitable consequence of short upper arm and upright fronts. I did also find a few faulty bites; one undershot, one youngster with a lower incisor seriously out of line; and several with level bites, which, though permitted in the standard, are not (to my mind) desirable; also undesirable to me were the number of exhibits with small teeth in weak forefaces. There were also a couple of ‘winter noses’, but that, to me, is a purely cosmetic point and not to be penalised. All males were entire.
Mid Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
Placing Critique
nicely small dog, excellently prepared coat , but a bit short of it; strong head and jaw, front marginally upright but good outline otherwise, nice short tail, moved well behind,
Paignton Championship Show
5th Aug 2023
Judge: Colin Powell (Bowtman)
Yearling - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
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.
Limit - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
The Scottish Kennel Club
1st Oct 2023
Judge: Mr M Armstrong (Bitcon)
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
7th Oct 2023
Judge: Mrs Norma Ellis (Normbar)
Thank you to the Committee for organising such a well run show. The quality of the the dogs was very good, making my decisions more difficult in a good way. Nice atmosphere plus friendly sportsmanship prevailed.
Limit - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
Class Critique
1 withdrawn
Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association Group Open Show
15th Oct 2023
Judge: Mr Ian Halbert (Marrimay)
I would like to thank the committee for the kind invitation to judge Border Terriers and for the warm welcome I received. Also thanks go to my steward for doing such a good job. My apologies to the Secretary and exhibitors for the delay in submitting this critique due to circumstances beyond my control
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
Selby Canine Society Open Show
28th Oct 2023
Judge: Jill Young (Chadbrook)
Post Graduate /
Third Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
Houghton le Spring CS Open Show
29th Oct 2023
Judge: Lesley McNally (Conekesheved)
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
The Sporting Terrier Association of Yorkshire Open Show
12th Nov 2023
Judge: Sarah Pateman (Lessien)
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
Wigan and District Canine Society Open Show
14th Jan 2024
Judge: Siân McKay (Redesholt)
My thanks go to the Committee of the Wigan and District Canine Society for the opportunity to judge today (we were kept well fed and watered!), and to my steward for her assistance in the ring. The show was very well attended and was therefore very busy and noisy. The Border ring was right next to an open door which unfortunately did appear to have a detrimental effect on a few exhibits, leading to some inconsistent and unsettled presentations. That aside, there were some lovely dogs to go over – no major faults to note, and all had very pleasing loose pelts. Coats, as to be expected, were in various stages of growth.
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Raedwulf Daybreak JW
Placing Critique
2-year-old grizzle and tan dog with masculine otter head correct in ratios, with a dark intelligent gaze, strong muzzle and big teeth. Straight front and good bone on catlike feet with thick pads. Narrow throughout with deep correct chest and ribs well back and of good length. Level topline was maintained on move which was efficient. Racy hindquarters- a balanced dog shown in a good dense harsh coat. RBoB.
