Show Placings
Southern Counties Canine Association
27th Jun 2021
Judge: Mr Kevin Green (Terabyte)
I would like to thank all the Officers and Committee of the Southern Counties Canine Association for inviting me to judge their show for Border Terriers. It was my first judging appointment for a CH Show and I was very pleased with my entry also I would like to thank all the exhibitors who entered and for allowing me to go over their dogs. They all showed and behaved very well. Last but not least I would like to thank my steward who did an excellent job keeping everything flowing very well.
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Racy bitch had nice length of neck and top line. Moved well.
East of England Championship Show
8th Jul 2021
Judge: Mr Ian Hopper (Esyntona)
My thanks go to the East of England committee for inviting me to judge the show. Thank you to my two stewards who efficiently helped exhibitors to follow the corvid regulations in place for the show.
For quite a lot of the younger dogs it was there first show due to the lockdown they all handled it well.
All teeth were ok a few of the dogs were just spannable there was no problem with the bitches
I was pleased with my final line ups for dogs and bitches and the main winners I feel could still carry out the work they were bred for if required.
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Red grizzle another nice bitch, narrow throughout, head and teeth ok moved out well once she settled down.
Leeds Championship Show
25th Jul 2021
Judge: Mr Neil Straw (Shaolin)
Thank you to the Officer’s and Committee for their invitation to judge at their show and congratulate Liz Stannard and her hard working team for putting on the well organised show. Thank you to the exhibitors for a lovely entry and your support on the day with only 10 being absent. Temperaments throughout were excellent as you would expect, front movement is still an issue but I felt that some bitches were a tab up on size. All were well presented.
Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
well balanced throughout, good ear set, muzzle & bite, straight forelegs, ribs carried well back, firm loin, sound quarters, low hocks, neat well padded feet, good pelt & jacket, moved out well
Bath Canine Society
1st Aug 2021
Judge: Mr T Ball
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Best Bitch
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
19 mth old who I thought quite lovely. She is such a good type, so very balanced and so good to go over given her correct construction. Moderate length of neck, firm level topline, good depth to brisket, excellent croup and tail of good set. Nice and narrow with good length to ribcage. Quality head with moderately broad skull, excellent eye and ear, short strong muzzle, correct dentition and nice furnishings. Good angles both front and rear, standing straight in front on small, tight feet with desired thick pads and firm rear with good turn of stifle. Excellent texture to jacket and thick pelt. Moving so well on the go around and handled to advantage. Best Bitch and an easy BOB winner here today.
Paignton Championship Show
7th Aug 2021
Judge: Mr B Aubrey
I only found 1 mouth fault and that was in the bitches, so i won't be mentioning teeth except some could have been cleaner and please watch movement there were some iffy ones here today.
Yearling - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Mid-Somerset Agricultural Society Open Show
15th Aug 2021
Judge: Karl Gawthorpe (Waterbrook)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: RBIS, G1, Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
What can I say about this bitch, she took my breath away when she first walked into the ring, she as the most amazing head and alert expression, good firm neck flowing into well placed shoulder, the correct spring of rib and correct chest, great coat and texture, correct angles both front and rear and a firm top line and correct tail and tail set that was kept well on the move, Adult group 1, I was then informed that she went RBIS congratulations
Bournemouth Championship Show
16th Aug 2021
Judge: Mr J Horswell
I very much enjoyed tackling this entry and found the breed to be in pretty good shape. Quite a relaxed and friendly atmosphere I thought. I did take coats into account, there were quite a lot who were rather naked on the day and as a result went further down the line that they might otherwise have done – you have to judge what you can see, and a good coat is important in a working terrier.
RBCC
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
She is in full coat, thick and harsh. Fem head with good strength of jaw. Could have just a bit more neck. Good front. Chest to elbow. Well ribbed. Level topline. Enough turn of stifle. Has an even stride and accurate out and back. RCC
Blackpool & District Canine Society
22nd Aug 2021
Judge: Mrs P McLellan (Breconbeds)
My thanks to Blackpool & District Canine Society for the invitation to judge BorderTerriers, and thank you to my two very efficient stewards who kept things moving along in the ring.
Sadly today, rudeness to the stewards and a lack of sportsmanship seem to be on the increase.
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Grizzle bitch. Another in good coat and condition. Good head and expression. Moved out well.
Salisbury & South Wilts CA Open Show
29th Aug 2021
Judge: Lois Wilson
Thank you to the committee for the invitation to judge, and to the exhibitors who entered. My stewards did a great job. After 18 months I was doing what I so enjoy – getting hands onto dogs
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Yearling /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
20 mth Grizzle bitch, Head Otter like, moderately broad skull, short strong muzzle, black nose, dark eyes. Ears small, V-shaped, dropping forward. Scissor bite. Moderate length of neck. Forelegs not too heavy in bone. Chest deep and narrow, able to span. Small feet. Tail thick at base, set high, carried gaily. Movement a little loose, needs to firm up. Coat in excess, needs stripping. Thick skin. Colour – Grizzle & tan. Res BOB
Richmond Championship Show
11th Sep 2021
Judge: Mr Colin Girling (Benattivo)
Thank you to the committee of the Richmond show for granting my first appointment to award CC’s, I was well looked after on the day and had great support from my stewards which was very much appreciated. It was a real privilege to judge some wonderful examples of the breed and the future looks bright as there were so many wonderful puppies and juniors. I really appreciated all my entries and rewarded those in the best condition on the day, I also acknowledge that many had good breed type and quality even amongst those not in the challenge and some that were not placed in the stronger classes.
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Border Union Championship Show
4th Oct 2021
Judge: Mr W Shorthose (Cundytyke)
Many thanks go to the exhibitors and my two stewards who kept going throughout a rather damp session during the judging of the bitch classes. One of the essentials of a working terrier is being able to withstand a little rain but there were a few exhibits with thin skins and short of coat. I found that some lacked muscle, particularly behind, which affected the driving movement necessary for the breed’s function. My other main concern was the lack of width in the jaws of some, detracting from the desired, ‘like that of an otter’, head shape. This is a most identifying feature of the breed and needs to be carefully adhered to.
Yearling - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
The Terrier Club of Devon and Cornwall
17th Oct 2021
Judge: Sarah Richardson
Limit /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Minehead & District Canine Society 9pen Show
7th Nov 2021
Judge: .Mr Peter Boot (Barotoba)
Special Yearling /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Exonian C A Open show
4th Dec 2021
Judge: Mr K Andrew
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Ladies Kennel Association
11th Dec 2021
Judge: Mrs Beverley Barber (Alcumlow)
Thank you to everyone who entered their dogs for me to judge. I was pleased with my entry and very pleased that LKA took place in light of the current Covid19 situation. I must admit it was very challenging to judge properly whilst wearing a facemask all day in this indoor venue! I was very pleased with my principle winners. Some of the younger classes were not so good maybe with maturity the exhibits will probably change places many times. My principle of judging is always good sound movement, capable of following a horse, this requires good conformation. A well laid shoulder and a properly angulated rear allows a good free stride . Some dogs were too narrow and so swinging their fronts from side to side, and some were great standing but fell apart on the move, running downhill or rear out of line with front were common faults. Heads were very varied, some very exaggerated or with untypical expression. Bites were mostly okay although I did find misaligned jaws and some had small or uneven sized teeth. Coats were hit and miss but pelts were mostly good and all were spannable, although some were round in rib. But remember you always take the best dog home.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Likeable sort of good proportions. Pleasing head shape. Moved out well keeping outline on the move. Excellent coat
Newton Abbot & South Devon CS Open Show
29th Jan 2022
Judge: Mrs Penny Sands (Krakenexis)
Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Gloucester & DCS Open Show
5th Feb 2022
Judge: Jane Newport (Digaden)
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Ilfracombe & DCS Open Show
12th Feb 2022
Judge: Carolyn Fry (Bedaslea)
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Newark & DCS Open Show
19th Feb 2022
Judge: Mrs V Atkinson (Raedwulf)
Thank you to Newark and District CS for inviting me to judge and to the exhibitors for the opportunity of going over some wonderful dogs and to my ring stewards, Nigel and Sarah, for keeping the ring running smoothly..
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
2 year old grizzle bitch, super head with excellent ear placement, good muzzle with correct scissor bite. Very easy to span with good lay of rib, strong loin and racy hind quarters, presented in well muscled and fit condition. Moved with purpose on tight feet holding top line. Not over done in any way. Sadly lacking in coat today which was my ultimate decider when awarding top honours. RBOB.
Torquay & DCS Open Show
26th Feb 2022
Judge: Jen Bowden (Chellowside)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG4, Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Bridgewater CS Open Show
27th Mar 2022
Judge: Steve Owen (Egremont)
Post Graduate /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Edwinstowe & DCS Open Show
15th Apr 2022
Judge: Mr Ray Morland
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
lovely size and shape, stands true and square with movement to match
Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
16th Apr 2022
Judge: Mrs C E Sansom (Tarkaswell)
I would like to thank the committee and members of the Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire border terrier club for the invitation to judge at this friendly club show. My stewards Tracey Anscombe and Sian Mckay were very efficient and kept the day running smoothly. Thank you to the exhibitors for a lovely entry and accepting my decisions in a sporting manner. It was a privilege to judge your dogs.
I had some quality borders to go over, and my decisions reflected my interpretation of the breed standard, on the day.
Some exhibits lacked the typical otter head, moderately broad with a short, strong muzzle and keen expression, which is definitive in our breed. Coats were generally good, harsh and dense with thick pelts, but several exhibits would have benefitted from having their feet trimmed. I found no kinked tails, dentition was generally good and all dogs were entire.
There was a lovely atmosphere, especially during the challenges, and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
A smaller type, this grizzle and tan bitch had a dark eye with a varminty expression. Her lovely reach of neck flowed into a level top line and well set tail that was carried gaily and never stopped wagging! Narrow throughout, she had straight forelimbs leading to small, neat feet. Balanced in her construction, her correct angulation enabled her to move with purpose and drive. Although well presented, I preferred the coat and pelt of my winner today. Well handled, she was very attentive and showed with presence.
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
18th Apr 2022
Judge: Mr M. Hollingsbee (Otterwood)
I would like to thank the Committee of the Club for entrusting me to judge this
show. Due to my age I have decided that this will be my last appointment at this
level. I would like to thank my able stewards Sarah Pateman and Kay Tuffin for
keeping me in order and ensuring a smooth running of the show. All of the
Committee worked very hard and I thank them.
Having said that, what a lovely standard of dogs were placed before me. Overall
coats were excellent and I did not detect one bad mouth. The only criticism I have is
that a few exhibits did not have the feet and nails trimmed.
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Oakhampton & DCS Open Show
30th Apr 2022
Judge: Gareth Thomas
Post Graduate /
Third Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Marlborough & DCS Open Show
2nd May 2022
Judge: Mr Ken Andrews (South Wales)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG3, Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Yeovil & District Canine Society Open Show
14th May 2022
Judge: Mrs Sue Spafford (Dassett)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for offering me my first appointment.
The weather was kind to us and there was a friendly atmosphere. I was lucky to have some lovely dogs to go over, however several were unsettled and distracted on the move making it difficult to assess movement. I was pleased with my winners and really enjoyed the day.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG4, Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Limit /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Beautiful feminine bitch, caught my eye as she entered the ring. Narrow throughout, good both ways, presented in tip top condition. Pleased to award her BOB and went on to TG4.
Bath CS Championship Show
27th May 2022
Judge: Mrs Jean Willetts (Hanway)
I would like to thank Bath Canine Society Committee for my invitation to judge Border Terriers at their show. I would also like to thank my steward as she was on her own, and did an excellent job of running the ring and dogs smoothly. I’d also like to thank all the exhibitors who entered, I had a very enjoyable day going over each of the dogs.
On the whole most of the dogs were in good condition. Most dogs presented had good pelts and coats, however there were a few with thin pelts. There were a few long tails and some large ears. The movement on the whole was sound.
Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Nice typey bitch. Good head and expression. Correct neck and shoulders. In good coat and
condition. Moved well round the ring.
Reading & District Kennel Association Open Show
1st Jun 2022
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
A big thank you to the committee/officers of Reading & District Kennel Association for asking me to judge the Border Terriers at today’s Premier Open Show. A lovely entry of 20 dogs so a big thank you to the exhibitors for supporting my entry today and presenting some quality dogs. Also a big thank you to my steward for the day Mr Graham Smith who kept the classes moving along not just for the Borders but a number of the Terrier breed classes. It is always nice to have the day to see the Terrier Classes develop and see the quality that comes through into the group and it did not disappoint but always nice to see your Best Of Breed go Terrier Group 1 and to top it off be awarded Best In Show from an entry of well over 1,000 dogs
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
2 year old Grizzle & Tan bitch that has a really appealing ring presence and eye catching when she is on the move, set down in top condition/super fit and in a cracking jacket. Nice in head/eye and narrow through the shoulder/rib and her excellent muscle tone allows her to move with the purpose she possesses.
Southern Counties Canine Association
3rd Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs Elizabeth Barrett (Howthwaite)
Thank you to the committee for inviting me to award my first set of CCs. Although my appointment was originally for 2020, it was worth the wait. Thank you to my stewards Doug and Sue for keeping me in line and the ring running smoothly. And most of all, thank you to all of the exhibitors for your entries and for allowing me to go over your dogs. I also want to thank anyone who made unsporting comments, for doing so out of my earshot.
As I would expect, the entry was on the whole very pleasing. Thankfully, I didn’t have many exaggerations, such as ultra short muzzles or over-angulated hindquarters. Unfortunately though, good fronts, and in particular clean, well laid, shoulders and good front angulation, were few and far between. Movement, with both good reach and drive and accuracy was hard to find, so I did find myself forgiving the odd wayward front legs on dogs that otherwise had good construction and an easy ground covering stride. I would rather see a dog a little loose and covering the ground than one very accurate that can only take a three inch stride. All dogs were entire. There were only a couple of less than perfect bites and an ever so slightly kinked tail. Only a select few had a good short carroty tail, and some were very long, something we need to look out for. A few, including some bitches, were big in the rib and far too heavy to pick up and quite a number had very little undercoat and thin pelts. I looked for good construction and movement, balance and no exaggeration. I found several dogs that I would happily award CCs to on another day and had the privilege of having to really nitpick, especially in the dog challenge.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Smart grizzle and tan. Good bite with big teeth, short strong muzzle, broad skull with little stop. Good neck and shoulders and lovely straight front legs. Deep rib, but still spanable. Excellent topline and tailset and strong in loin. Well angulated hindquarters. Shown in a good topcoat, with good undercoat and pelt to match. Although she’s just a tad stronger than I would like, she was so sound on the move and in great condition.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
4th Jun 2022
Judge: Mr David Hunt (Ottaswell)
My sincere thanks to the officers and committee of the Southern Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge at this show on such a special occasion as the Queens Platinum Jubilee Celebration day, I am sure the celebration cakes were enjoyed by all. Thanks also to the various stewards who organised the entries on the day and kept the classes running smoothly. Having been show manager of this show for the past 12 years I appreciate the effort that was made by the committee members present on the day. A final thank you to all the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to assess your dogs.
With showers forecast and cool blustery weather outside it was decided to judge inside using a good sized ring that had good lighting with exhibitors/visitors able to view from 3 sides. I thought the entry was of a high quality, with several entries of both dogs and bitches deserving higher honours. In general the entries were in good condition. All males were entire and I found no kinked tails. Bites were of a good standard with just a few misplaced teeth, although teeth size varied considerably. Several exhibits would benefit from attention to feet to produce the small feet as required. Movement in general was better at the rear than in front. As usual coats were at various stages, with some exceptionally thick pelts to examine.
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Three Counties Championship Show
9th Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs M J Alexander (Glenbucket)
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
pleasing head level top line coarse double coat moved well
Taunton & DCS Open Show
18th Jun 2022
Judge: Leannie Marshallsay (Fergustaff)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG3, Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
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!
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
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.
Open - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
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.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Nicely shaped girl with a clean outline. Nice in head with a keen expression. Good front, well angulated shoulders, good body with a level back. Nicely angulated hindquarters, in a good coat & a nice sound mover both ways.
Devon County Show Premier Open Show
2nd Jul 2022
Judge: Andrea Dixon (Otterpaws)
Thank you very much to the club for inviting me to judge at this lovely show. Thank you to the exhibitors for allowing me to judge their dogs.
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
G/T bitch in a thick double coat just starting to go over. Tight catlike feet, good top line finished off with a lovely carrot tail. Good angulation. Moved out well with enthusiasm
Wiveliscombe DCS Open Show
31st Jul 2022
Judge: Mr Anthony Allen (Allenie)
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Paignton Championship Show
6th Aug 2022
Judge: Mr Graham Pickering (Picer)
It was an honour to be asked to judge at Paignton & District Fanciers Association. My thanks go to the officers and committee for their kind invitation to judge Border Terriers and their excellent hospitality. I had a lovely day at this well organised show and would like to also thank the stewards, Helen & Norma, for keeping me on track and in order. The weather was exceptionally hot and although I do like to judge outside, I am sure exhibitors, and their dogs were grateful for the shade and cool that being inside gave us.
Although I did not have a huge entry, I was fortunate to have some real quality dogs entered and had some very hard decisions to make, however, at the end of judging I was delighted with my winners. On the downside, I did find some mouths that were not as they should be and some dogs who were deep in chest and therefore difficult to span. However, the most disappointing element was the lack of detail that some exhibitors pay to feet. The standard states that feet should be ‘small with thick pads’, however, quite a few exhibits had untidy feet with long nails. Although this seems minor point, long hair around the feet detracts from the overall look of the Border Terrier.
I was disappointed that I could not stay to watch the group, but unfortunately, I had to leave due to other commitments. I was delighted that all my top winners were shortlisted in the group and very pleased that my Special Beginner winner went Group 1 and the Best Puppy winner went Group 3.
Post Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
A lovely type, bitch, feminine throughout. Moderate breadth of skull. Correct ear placement and lovely dark eye and typical expression. Well balanced with good length of neck, firm level topline and correct tail set. Good straight front on small, thick padded feet. Plenty muscle in hindquarters with good angulation ensured she moved out well with confidence. In her underwear today but has evidence of a harsh coat
City of Birmingham Championship Show
3rd Sep 2022
Judge: Mrs K Newsome (Kighills)
I would like to thank the City of Birmingham committee for inviting me to judge the Border terriers today. It was a most enjoyable day and to top it off I had some quality dogs and bitches to go over. I would also like to thank the exhibitors for their entries and excepting my decisions.
The quality of borders were good and adhered to the breed standard. All mouths were good and all the dogs were entire. Heads on the whole were very good but some lacked a strong broad muzzle. The movement was good and many moved with drive. Many coats were harsh and thick and pelts were nice and loose. I would like to see some exhibitors pay a little attention to trimming the feet and nails.
It would also benefit a few exhibitors to take their young dogs to ring-craft more to socialise them. This would get them use to unfamiliar situations i.e. hands on the dog etc.
To my surprise my main winners Best Puppy Dog, 2nd Grad Bitch, Bitch CC & Bitch RCC were all related to the Glebeheath Kennels so well done to you.
Limit - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
North Devon CA Open Show
10th Sep 2022
Judge: Mr Tony Allcock MBE (Sleepyhollow)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Limit /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Richmond Championship Dog Show
11th Sep 2022
Judge: Mr J A Barney (Romaunt)
Many thanks to Richmond in giving me the opportunity to judge a breed that still has some depth in quality to it. Generally, I felt movement needs to be attended to. It's a breed I've always associated with true movement both ways and a number did tend to pin in front. Coat texture was pretty good throughout but some would benefit from slightly neater presentation. I was able to span nearly all exhibits and pelts good. At the moment I would say that bitches are far stronger than the males.
Limit - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
24th Sep 2022
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Bailey (Grindelvald)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for asking me to judge the show, also making me feel so welcomed. A big thank you to my 2 stewards Tracey and Kathleen who kept me on track, also to all the exhibits and exhibitors, who gave me a lots of quality Borders to go over. I wish I had more CC’s especially in the dog classes. My concern with in the breed, is their fronts, straight shoulders, with very little angulation, which effects the front movement. All dogs had a good bite, a couple with level bite, but not a problem. All males were entire. Grooming needs to be addressed, tidying their underneath, also the feet need to be neatly trimmed and the nails cut correctly, it makes such a difference when presenting them to the Judge. 1or 2 needed ring craft classes. However, overall what a great representation of the breed. I was very pleased with my main winners.
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Terrier Club of Devon & Cornwall Open Show
16th Oct 2022
Judge: Mrs L.K. Jordan-Smith (Jordith)
Thank you to the Officegrs and Committee for the invitation to judge at this friendly and well run show; I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: G3, Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Limit /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
A 2.5 year old, attractive grizzle and tan bitch, with a good ear set and dark eye giving a lovely feminine expression on her otter head. She has a nice lay of shoulder, a good rib and strength of loin that gives her a firm level top line both when standing and on the move. Her pelt is loose and thick with a harsh new jacket coming through. With a nice straight front and well angulated hindlimb assembly she moves with drive and purpose around the ring that is eye catching, and has the soundness and stamina to follow a horse. BOB and very happy to see her go BIS G3 amongst a very strong line up.
Minehead & District Canine Society Open Show
6th Nov 2022
Judge: Mrs S Thompson (Ashgate)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Plymouth & DKA Open Show
12th Nov 2022
Judge: Darren Pearson (Winoski)
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
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 .
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Well made grizzle with good head on correct neck into well laid shoulder and nicely proportioned body, moved soundly and with drive.
Manchester Championship Show
20th Jan 2023
Judge: Mrs Patsy Hollings (Gunalt)
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Useful bitch ,so honest and well made. Absolutly a border in all departments and has the character that says a terrier., smart and sassy Very close to winner.
Class Critique
Lovely class.
Camborne and Redruth CS Open Show
18th Feb 2023
Judge: Maria Clarke
Best Of Breed
Name at show: RBIS, TG1, Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Torquay & DCS Open Show
25th Feb 2023
Judge: Eillen Coles (Towden)
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
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.
RBCC
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Mid Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
A very sound and honest bitch of good size, workmanlike but also has that showmanship which took her to top honours on the day. Has attitude in spades, on her toes at all times and was always at one with her handler who gets the best out of her both stood and on the move. Good strength of head but keeps a feminine outlook, dark expressive eye and neat ears. Pleasing front assembly, good depth but easily spanned, firm level topline that she keeps on the move and the best of hindquarters. Very well presented on the day. A very sound and positive mover, Res.CC.
Good Citizen - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Exeter & County CS Open Show
18th Mar 2023
Judge: Diane Hunter
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Plymouth & DKA Open Show
8th Apr 2023
Judge: Mr Richard Kinsey (Kitarn)
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
16th Apr 2023
Judge: Miss Tracey James (Blackmine)
A bit thank to the committee of EABTC for inviting me to judge their championship show. I really enjoyed my day and when I later looked at the catalogue to see my winners I found it interesting reading, as all my major winners were of similar lines.
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
honest type, balanced and very showy. Would like better pigment. Not in best of coats.
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.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
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.
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
a stronger built bitch with plenty to like, she has a double coat was thicker than 1st, she has good bone, and was alert and moved well coming and going, feminine head with that varmity look, good clean teeth and thick pelt.
Malborough & DCS Open Show
1st May 2023
Judge: Sarah Pateman (Lessien)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
6th May 2023
Judge: Mr Keith Baldwin (Nightstorm)
I would like to thank all the Officers and Committee of the Midland Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their club open show.
It is now 17 years that I have been judging Border Terriers and it was the 6th August 2011 that I attended the Midland Border Terrier Club breed specific seminar when Jena Tuck was the secretary.
I was very pleased with my entry of 112 quality dogs and bitches, also I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the exhibitors who entered and for allowing me to go over their dogs. They all showed and behaved very well. I can report back to you that you have overall one of the soundest breeds that I have judged.
Last but not least I would like to thank my stewards who did an excellent job keeping everything flowing smoothly between the two shows in the Margaret Everton Pavilion
Reserve Best In Show
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Best Bitch
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
3 years old grizzle, she has all I look for in a female border terrier, her otter shaped head is lovely, dark eyes with keen expression, snow nose and scissor bite, her moderate neck fits so well into her clean well angulated shoulders and front legs viewed straight with good bone, her ribs are well set back and she is spanned with ease, short strong loin and racy hindquarters with well let down hocks, her jacket was harsh and dry, and her pelt thick and pliable, on the move she powered around the ring with good driving action, Best Bitch, Best Opposite Sex and Reserve Best in Show.
National Dog Show
6th May 2023
Judge: Brigitte Belin Bernaudin (France)
First, I thank the committee for the invitation to judge this prestigious show. Thanks to my stewards for making a super job and keep my judging running smoothly. It was a real honour and privilege as foreign judge and breeder to have the opportunity of this 1st appointment to give CC in my breed, and thank to exhibitors to allow me to go over so many good Border.
Being able in my country to work my dogs, I have been looking for the right conformation as asks in the standard, making dogs able to do their original work underground and was happy many could do so.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Yeovil & District Canine Society Open Show
13th May 2023
Judge: Mrs Sue Baxter (Mysulan/Sulan)
Thank you to the committee for the kind invitation to judge today , also to my stewards who kept things moving along nicely, your help was much appreciated. A big thank you to all the exhibitors for allowing me to go over your dogs and accepting my decisions
in a sporting manner. General observations were, no kinked tails found and the males were intact . I did see a few animals with slightly untidy bites affecting some placings. On the subject of ring presentation I may suggest that perhaps some animals would have benefitted from more attention being paid to nail clipping and feet trimming … even with the long grass, once on the table the feet are very visible. I thoroughly enjoyed my day and had a quality bunch of Borders before me. Thank you to everyone who made it possible !
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Nice fit 3 year old grizzle. Headpiece strong, with plenty of back skull but not coarse , with good muzzle width and appropriate lack of stop. Lively and interested expression. Ears of a good size and well set. Smart jacket of good texture, nice loose pelt. Ribbed well back and a strong loin. I liked the angles fore and aft , particularly noting the well developed second thigh . Topline good both stacked and on the move.Good carrot like short tail , running straight off the spine . Presented in good form and given serious consideration in the challenge.
The Scottish Kennel Club (May) Championship Show
21st May 2023
Judge: Mr Frank Kane (Hirontower)
RBCC
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Very showy 3 year old, excellent movement, strong head, in good coat, excellent coat and presentation, I preferred balance of winner, RBCC
Class Critique
Excellent class.
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
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Southern Counties Canine Association
2nd Jun 2023
Judge: Miss Felicity Freer (Felfree)
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
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.
RBCC
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Shorter coupled with strong loin many quality features including a moderately broad skull, short strong muzzle, good jaw and dentition with neat ears well placed, giving a keen expression. Coat coming in she was easily spanned and was also in tip-top condition she covered the ground with ease and drive, loved her bodylines and pleased to award her Reserve CC today. She didn’t stop showing and was at one with her handler.
Class Critique
A great class to judge with lots of quality and only 5 places, I had to dismiss decent dogs as a result.
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.
Open - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Class Critique
Top three all classy bitches.
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.
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
A red grizzle bitch with a typical border head with a keen expression. Beautifully presented in a pin wire coat and pliable pelt and in fit condition. She has a pleasing outline and good length of body. She has good angulation and moved well freely round the ring.
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 - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
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,
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Paignton Championship Show
5th Aug 2023
Judge: Colin Powell (Bowtman)
Open - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
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.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Class Critique
A quality class
Newton Abbot & South Devon CS Open Show
26th Aug 2023
Judge: Beverly Deacon (Cassencarrie)
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
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.
RBCC
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Really liked this bitch. Excellent tight, harsh coat with a thick, pliable pelt. Straight front and moved well both ways. Easily spanned. Nice length of body with ribs carried well back. Lovely head with nice dark eye. Would perhaps prefer a little more fill under the eye, but that could not detract from her excellent breed type and steady movement - was pleased to award her the Reserve Bitch CC.
Richmond Championship Show
8th Sep 2023
Judge: Mr Tim Ball (Kaitak)
RBCC
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
3 yr old grizzle of quality who appealed for overall type and balance and certainly didn’t disappoint when hands on. Moderate length of neck, level topline, ribs extend well back and are not oversprung, strong muscular loins and tail correct for both set and carriage. Feminine throughout, she has a most attractive head with correct proportions, skull of moderate breadth, lovely eye and ear, strong muzzle and correct scissor bite. Soundly constructed all through, standing straight in front with correct breadth of forechest and firm, racy hindquarters. Moving true both fore and aft and goes so well on the go around and makes the most of herself as she goes. Harsh jacket and nice thick pelt. RCC.
Exeter & County Canine Society Open Show
16th Sep 2023
Judge: Mrs V Atkinson (Raedwulf)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG4, Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Oakhampton & DCS Open Show
23rd Sep 2023
Judge: Mrs Lee England (Ashleyheath)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
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.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
The Scottish Kennel Club
1st Oct 2023
Judge: Mr M Armstrong (Bitcon)
BCC
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Beautiful bitch in great coat, lovely feminine head with nice expression, good legs and feet, neat ears, well placed, well angulated body, tail well set on, spannable with good pelt, excellent coat, looks really well free standing, a credit to her owner, BCC.
Terrier Club of Devon & Cornwall Open Show
22nd Oct 2023
Judge: Siân McKay (Redesholt)
My thanks to the committee for the opportunity to judge a lovely quality entry of Border Terriers. This is a friendly and welcoming show and I was ably assisted by a super Steward who kept the ring running smoothly and efficiently.
The acoustics of the building today did have a detrimental effect on some of the exhibits; but of course, it is impossible to find a perfect space for every dog to show themselves at their best.
As mentioned I was honoured to have a super selection of Borders to go over today; especially the Puppy class where many were exhibiting for the first time.
I found all male dogs intact, and no kinked tails and one wry mouth. Coats were in all stages of growth today, and a few lacked a good visible covering of undercoat which naturally affected placings. Temperaments were all excellent and the ‘glint ‘ in the eye that I would like to see- inquisitive and game that looked ready for a day‘s work, which in turn reflected in their positive movement- was pleasingly there with all my main line up; as was the ‘stamp’ of the breed the otter- like head with correct proportions in the head to allow the powerful jaws to do their job, whilst standing on- most importantly, small thickly padded cat-like feet.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
3-year-old G & T bitch that flowed into the ring ready to go; exuding confidence, showmanship and a workmanlike attitude. She has beautiful kinetic balance, and when moving her reach and drive is apparently effortless and efficient; and when she comes to rest her static balance on her small cat like well-padded feet is unforced and correct. In profile her topline is straight with good tail set and tail she holds at two, and underline with no tuck up in evidence. She has a steady alert keen gaze with a thumbprint of a stop and plenty of fill under her eyes and big teeth in a strong but not overdone jaw and scissor bite. Well laid back and in shoulders are used to good effect in her reach- strong loin connects to racy hindquarters. Skin thick and a good pliable pelt. Pleased to award her Best of Breed today.
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.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Minehead & District Canine Society Open Show
5th Nov 2023
Judge: Bethany Cawley (Marlablue)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Bristol & District Dog Club Open Show
3rd Dec 2023
Judge: Mr Stephen Goodwin (Lanola)
Open /
Third Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Ladies Kennel Association
8th Dec 2023
Judge: Mr Ken Bartlett (Dwilencia)
BCC
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
Stood out in this class today, well balanced all through, lovely feminine head, good ears and dark eyes, neck fits into well laid shoulders, good ears and dark eyes, neck fits into well laid shoulders, good in body length, spans easily in correct double coat, kept her shape on the move, C.C.
Totnes & District Canine Society Open Show
17th Dec 2023
Judge: Sue Thomson (Ashgate)
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Manchester Championship Show
20th Jan 2024
Judge: Mr Richard Allen (Penparc)
BCC
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso
Placing Critique
A quality bitch who was in lovely coat, condition and she showed her socks off, just right for size, good bone, legs and feet, good head, dark eye and strong muzzle, well muscled quarters and it showed on the move, BCC
The Terrier Club of South Wales Open Show
11th Feb 2024
Judge: Sarah Pateman (Lessien)
First, I would like to thank the committee for inviting me to judge my breed the Border Terrier, then the Irish Terrier and all the handling classes.
This show was so friendly, and I was looked after from the minute I arrived till the moment I left.
Thank you, Tina Jones, for the delicious food and Richard Wright for being my steward for all my judging classes including the Irish Terriers and all the handling classes.
What an amazing entry I had although a few absentees the class of dogs present were of good quality, and I am very grateful to all exhibitors who entrusted in me to go over their dogs and accepting my decisions on the day
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Best Bitch
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Placing Critique
24/12/2019. Good to see this girl again, still gives me goosebumps when she enters the ring. True otter head, keen expression, dark eye, good lay of shoulder giving her the ability to cover the ground with drive behind. Although a bitch she has strength and correct bone for the job to the breed standard, very confidant happy and in unison with her handler which makes this pairing a joy to watch. Happy to award her BB, BOS and RBOB
The Terrier Club of Devon and Cornwall
18th Feb 2024
Judge: Mark Atkinson (Raedwulf)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
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.
Best In Show
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Best Bitch
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Placing Critique
This grizzle & tan is in excellent condition. Good head proportions with short strong muzzle, dark eye and correct bite. Straight forelegs placed under body with strong pasterns, good depth of body, ribs well back, spannable, strong in loin, muscular racy hindquarters. Loose thick pliable pelt, beautifully presented harsh double coat. This bitch really draws your attention on the move, with her balance, drive, and effortless movement.BB, BIS
Crufts
10th Mar 2024
Judge: Mrs Lesley Gosling (Akinside)
A tremendous entry of 275 Borders ( 25 absentees on the day)to enjoy handling, judging and placing. I must extend my appreciation to my two valiant stewards for their patience and skill in keeping classes moving. Thank you all.
I do believe our breed is changing, but in subtle ways. The lack of opportunities for true terrier work below ground for some Borders has been replaced by agility and other energetic pursuits, but lack of hard muscle tone has produced a ‘softer’ body on some exhibits. Some feet are slacker, pads are more spread and thinner and some fronts are wide. Movement is not always positive and a ‘driving’ action is lacking. Size is fluctuating too. We have a ‘working’ breed - let’s ensure that features defining the breed are not lost, i.e. ‘spannability’; a hard, harsh top coat and soft protective undercoat (not enough of those today); a dark, expressive eye, a broad skull and strong quarters – ‘the engine is at the back!’. Heads generally were good, but some bitch heads veered towards coarseness.
One thing not lost is the Border’s kind temperament – curious, interested and ready for anything.
Open - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
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.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Placing Critique
A sound grizzle and tan also of correct size. In good shape and a good shape, she was short of coat but what was in evidence looked to be correct (harsh). A nice feminine looking head and nicely proportioned with defined rear angulation she stood nicely square for her handler and stepped out well when moving.
Welsh Kennel Club Championship Show
16th Aug 2024
Judge: Mr Stuart Plane
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Joint Border Terrier Club's Championship Show
31st Aug 2024
Judge: Mr Graham Pickering (Picer)
Thank you to The Scottish Border Terrier Club for asking me to judge the Joint Show. It’s been a long time coming as I was invited to judge in 2019 and COVID 19 got in the way! I would like to thank the exhibitors who managed to attend the show after the problems caused by Storm Lilian at Driffield. I also appreciate that the absentees were higher as a result of many people having prior appointments on the day that the show was rearranged. The City of Birmingham Society where very accommodating, we had a lovely ring with plenty of space.
However, I had a super entry, and I had lots to choose from in the dogs that were able to show under me. Thank you to everyone – I really appreciate being asked to give an opinion on other people’s dogs, it’s a real honour. I would also give a special note of thanks to my steward Bill Shorthose who single handedly managed the ring and made sure everyone was in the right place at the right time. Particularly with the challenges of a partnership show and the clashes that this can cause across two rings. Thank you to all the exhibitors who managed to negotiate two shows with good heart.
When judging, I look for dogs with good heads, plenty of strength under the eye, very little stop and a good strong jaw – essentially a’ Head like that of an Otter’. I also like to see straight fronts, correct shoulder placements and tidy small feet. I found these characteristics in all of my top winners. Generally, mouths were good, although there were a couple of dogs with a tooth out of place. Movement was ok in generally, but as breed we do need to keep an eye on front movement as there were some dogs who did not move as well as they should walking towards me. All the males were entire. I was very pleased with all my placings and when choosing my top winners, I had some difficult decisions to make and so were some dogs that were very unlucky on the day.
BCC
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Best In Show
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Placing Critique
Another bitch that I have admired from the ring side, she caught my eye as she entered the ring. A lovely grizzle bitch, excellent confirmation and shape with lots of breed type. She has the best of border heads with very little stop, well filled under the eye with a keen varminty expression. She has correctly placed neat ears and an excellent scissor bite, clean teeth and a good sized nose with large nostrils, a winter nose but this didn’t detract at all from the overall picture of a quality border. A bitch with a good reach of neck, well laid, smooth shoulder placement. Her front is straight, narrow and correct for bone. She stood on small, neat feet with thick pads. She carries her ribs well back which run into strong loin, with a good tail set, straight off her back. Good rear angulation and bend of stifle which meant that she is able to cover the ground effortlessly and with confidence. Very good harsh, double coat just coming into its best with a pliable pelt. She was obviously enjoying her day and was handled expertly and with confidence to BCC and BIS.
City of Birmingham Championship Show
31st Aug 2024
Judge: Mrs Clare Sansom (Tarkaswell)
I would like to thank the officers and committee of the City of Birmingham Canine Association Championship Dog Show for the invitation to judge at this level for the first time.
With storm Lillian resulting in the abandonment of Driffield, the JBTC were also able to hold their show in an adjacent ring. Hall 3 at the Royal Kennel Club building was light, spacious and an ideal venue. A certain amount of flexibility was required when classes clashed, and I am very grateful to my experienced stewards Chris Woolner and Caroline Wise for their hard work. They were calm, efficient and kept the ring running smoothly. With their help we finished in time to ensure that all those who had won major awards could get to their groups.
My sincere thanks to all the exhibitors for giving me such a quality entry and accepting my decisions in a sporting manner. We had very few absentees and I often had difficult decisions to make. In several classes, I would have liked some additional prize cards to award.
Coats did have an influence on the results, with those presented at their best, in a harsh, dense double jacket with thick pelt, being rewarded. A few exhibits would have benefitted from having their feet tidied to have achieved a neater picture. I found two kinked tails, two with incorrect dentition and all male dogs were entire.
I was delighted with my principal winners, who all fulfilled my interpretation of the breed standard on the day. It was a privilege to judge such an entry, and the lovely atmosphere, with applause and cheers for the winners, made it extra special.
I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Class Critique
A quality entry which gave me some difficult decisions. The placings between my prize winners could certainly change on another day.
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.
Best Bitch
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Placing Critique
Stood alone but was nonetheless a worthy winner . Lovely grizzle girl a few months off her 5 birthday. Super feminine headpiece , lovely proportioned muzzle to skull , with very nice underjaw strength .. Ear size and placement good , neck of moderate length .Pin wire jacket , rib and loin making for a powerful combination. Tail set good , running off the spine as desired and a cracking short carroty tail to finish the picture.. Moved very well and stood away in the line up ..Pleased to award her Best Bitch.
The Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
28th Sep 2024
Judge: Mrs Anne Heathcote (Saxheath)
I would like to thank the YLCBTC for giving me the honour of judging their Championship Show . My thanks also to my very efficient stewards Tracy and Marvin who kept both the ring and myself in order . It also goes without saying that I very much appreciated the exhibitors who trusted me to go over their dogs , Thank you .
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
Placing Critique
A lovely gr with a feminine but strong head , lovely reach of neck , layback of shoulder , topline and tailset . Shown in excellent jacket and condition and her good hind angulation enabled her to move very well around the ring .
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.
Open - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: CH Orangebox A New Hope At Itsaso ShCEx
