Show Placings
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
25th Mar 2023
Judge: Mrs Charlotte Archibald (Tweedburn)
What an absolute honour and a privilege to be invited to judge this show, my thanks to the Officers and Committee of the Border Terrier Club, and my two excellent stewards for the day, Judy and Marina.
My sincere thanks also, to ALL the exhibitors for making it truly memorable, with 196 dogs, 233 entries.
Some very close decisions had to be made!
On the down side, I found some very short muzzles and small teeth, and quite a number of filthy teeth!! Temperaments were generally good, there were 2 kinked tails and 1 suspect mouth, a lack of muscle tone and condition in some exhibits, which is essential for a terrier to do it’s job.
That said, it was an absolute joy to see so many super dogs.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
another one just 6 mths, similar in size to 1, well put together, not the jacket of 1 yet, moving well.
Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association Group Open Show
26th Mar 2023
Judge: Anne Higham (Comberdown)
I would like to thank The Northern Border Terrier Club for nominating me and the committee of the Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association for inviting me to judge at this wonderful friendly and hospitable show. Thank you to my two stewards who kept everything running smoothly and to the exhibitors for their entry and attendance on such a cold day.
I found all males entire and one level bite.
Puppy - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
National Terrier Club
1st Apr 2023
Judge: Miss Sarah Dandy (Dandale)
There was a good depth of quality overall across both sexes which proved for good competition and some very close decisions especially in the larger classes. Thank you to all those who accepted my decisions so sportingly. Temperaments were excellent especially the youngsters with the added challenge of the tannoy right overhead. There were some very promising youngsters which is always pleasing and positive to see, and I was delighted with my winning line up in both sexes, with top honours closely contested. I was disappointed that some exhibits who looked so good standing fell apart on the move, there were quite a few upright shoulders and I felt that efficient ground covering movement so essential for the breeds ability to follow a horse was somewhat lacking. It is encouraging to see quite a few younger handlers taking an interest in our breed today, so positive for the future. Thank you to both my excellent stewards who most competently kept the ring moving all day.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
Promising, soundly made puppy of nice shape and size with lovely grizzle coat and thick pelt. Very pleasing outline with attractive head type, a reach of neck into soundly constructed forehand balanced with a well angulated muscular hindquarter with second thigh, standing on straight legs, with well-placed hocks, nice bone and feet. A soundly made topline with equally good underline, has a length of rib and firm loin. Very together for one so young she caught my eye in such a strong class, holding her topline well on the move and covering the ground with ease.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
8th Apr 2023
Judge: Mrs J Carr (Wreighaugh)
My thanks go to the Committee of the NBTC for their invitation to judge their Open Show. I was honoured to receive this appointment and am incredibly grateful to the exhibitors who gave me such a great entry. It was a most enjoyable day and special thanks go to my Stewards, Andrea Pitt and Mark Atkinson, for keeping me on track and helping the ring to run smoothly.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
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.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
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.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
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.
Best Puppy - Bitch
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Best Puppy
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
7-month-old light red, short of coat today, feminine head of correct proportions for one so young, I liked her narrow front and straight front legs, level top line with a good high set tail, moderate hind angulation and steady movement.
The Scottish Kennel Club (May) Championship Show
21st May 2023
Judge: Mr Frank Kane (Hirontower)
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
7 months, appealed in head and proportions, shown in good coat, not the front angulation of winner
Class Critique
Good class for quality
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
Best Puppy
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
Good for size and shape, pleasing head with flat skull and little stop, stood on straight front legs and neat feet, well constructed forehand, narrow, easily spanned body with good topline and tailset, well angulated rear, moved out well.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
10th Jun 2023
Judge: Miss Julie Price (Oxcroft)
Thank you to all at the Southern Border Terrier Club for the invitation to judge your championship show this year, it was a great honour and privilege. The weather was hot and the venue was good to gain some shade for the dogs and myself! I had two very capable stewards who kept things running smoothy throughout the day, so thank to Kathleen Haugh and Sophie Liggat for their support. I really enjoyed my day and was more than happy with my winners. Thank you again for your hospitality.
I was looking for type, gameness, soundness and dogs that were fit to do a day’s work whilst not losing any attributes of the breed standard. Some exhibits were rather well muscled around the shoulders which made it difficult to feel the lay of the shoulders and this would also restrict their ability to go to ground. As a breed I think we are losing the otter heads and keen expressions which distinguishes the Border Terrier from other terrier breeds. A lady contacted me a week after the show and explained that she had attended the show during some of the bitch classes as she was looking to purchase a puppy having recently lost two of her old Borders. She explained she was now thinking of buying another breed as the dogs in the show ring did not look like the Borders she had had previously. She felt that they did not have the characteristic otter heads, and sadly I had to agree with her.
Overall, most dogs were fit for purpose and I am sure you all took the best dog home with you. In the current financial climate, all your entries were valuable to the club and it was a pleasure and an honour to go over your dogs.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
Eight-month-old puppy with slightly heavier and wider shoulders then first two. A nice size and shape, pleasing head with flat skull, easily spanned body with good topline.
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.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Class Critique
This was an outstanding class of youngsters and the quality was in abundance, I had to move some good specimens that I liked down the line. It will be interesting to see which of these go on to bigger things?
Blackpool & District Canine Society
25th Jun 2023
Judge: Mrs Jayne Gillam (Orenberg)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at Blackpool & District Canine Society Championship show. Grateful thanks must go to my very efficient steward Gisela Duran who did an excellent job in making sure everything ran like clockwork. Finally thank you to the exhibitors for giving me such an excellent entry of 142 dogs making 183 entries, the largest entry across all breeds on the day. It really was a privilege to go over such a large entry of dogs and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
The size of dogs has always been a perennial topic, but I was pleased to say overall, many of the dogs were of correct size on this occasion, with very few oversized dogs and only the odd one or two I couldn’t span. Bites were good and only an odd one with teeth out of line, although a few had broken teeth, quite a few had dirty teeth and some had small teeth which is something I really don’t like to see on, essentially a working terrier. It was good to find some really lovely tails, with not too many long thin, spindly tails we have seen in the past, although I was surprised to find four kinked tails in the entry.
Overall I thought it was a good entry, I found some quality exhibits and I was very pleased with my winners, and in particular will watch the progress of my puppy and junior placings with interest.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
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.
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
9mo, Close decision, maturity won the day. Good head, and expression, dark ear, coat harsh with thick pelt. Well made and moved out well. Overall picture enhanced by well set neat tail. BPB
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.
Best Puppy - Bitch
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Best Opposite Sex Puppy
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Reserve Best Puppy
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
neatly made little red bitch, well angulated, head coming on well, ears a bit heavy for the head at this stage, shown without coat today, moved well behind, OK in front. Best Puppy Bitch
Paignton Championship Show
5th Aug 2023
Judge: Colin Powell (Bowtman)
Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
Good head and expression, correct bite, straight front, in full coat, moved with drive covering the ground with ease, Good out-lines and angulations, good pelt and easily spanned, close decision that could be reversed on another day
Driffield Championship Show
26th Aug 2023
Judge: Mrs. Liz Wright (Totherend)
My thanks to Driffield Championship Dog Show Society for the invitation to judge today and thanks to my stewards Peter and Lesley Armstrong, who kept the ring running smoothly. Thanks also to the exhibitors for allowing me to go over their dogs. Front movement in the breed still needs some improvement, but overall I had lots of quality exhibits. Bites were good and only one kinked tail.
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
More mature puppy, she was shown and presented in excellent condition. Liked her size, good head and expression, not overdone in any way. Moved well.
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.
Best Puppy
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
Pleased to hear she was later shortlisted in the Terrier Puppy Group under judge Mr Barry Day. Well done
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
Light red grizzle bitch with a lovely neck and shoulders. Beautiful otterlike head. She moved exceedingly well both coming and going. Loved her ear placement. Dark eye, keen expression. Just the right amount of bone. Tight jacket. Tail straight off the top of her back and carried well. Pleased to award her Best Puppy in Breed
Class Critique
Another quality class with very difficult decision between the first two.
Wolsingham & Wear Valley Agricultural Society Open Show
3rd Sep 2023
Judge: David Alcorn (Lourdace/Comalegy)
Thank you to the committee for inviting me to judge at this buzzing, well organised, show. It was an extremely hot day so I moved dogs less than I perhaps would normally, to allow for the extreme temperatures we were all enjoying but the dogs were not. There was a good public attendance who seemed to enjoy the array of breeds on show. Thank you for the marvellous entries in the terrier breeds which made for a very enjoyable day indeed.
Border Terrier
Puppy /
Second Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
Decent head and coat on this youngster, just a shade higher on the leg than the winner and not quite so tidy in front action at the moment
Darlington Championship Show
17th Sep 2023
Judge: Mrs D Bullen (Fevstone)
I would like to thank the committee for inviting me to judge for the second time. I had a good entry of 125 with a few absentees as is usual, the dogs were of varying types and sizes which is to be expected. The ones that were unspannable aren’t fit for function as they fall at the first hurdle so to speak.
There are quite a lot creeping into the breed of late which lack power in the foreface. Falling away below the eye with a foreign expression. Also lacking in underjaw. Again a weakness in the breed which needs addressing or we will lose these qualities essential to work. A lot now have too short an upperarm which is vital in construction as it propels the dog forward as he should cover the ground effortlessly striding out. Not Pitter patter slowly. On a more positive note I found a lot of quality true to type borders that were a pleasure to judge. Effortless free movement which is essential. I’m sure the breed will go on to have a bright future if we all keep to the breed type.
Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
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.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
Another feminine grizzle who is also a lovely size and could get anywhere. Not the depth of coat of one, but good texture and thick pelt. Good head, neat ears and short strong muzzle with correct bite. Enough length to her body, which is an easy span with level topline and carroty tail.
The Scottish Kennel Club
1st Oct 2023
Judge: Mr M Armstrong (Bitcon)
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
Quality young bitch, lovely breed type, excellent head and eye, good bite, nice legs and feet, good body length, strong top-line and moderate quarters, moved well, in good jacket and pelt
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.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
Pushed hard close up, no doubt will change places many times. Presents an overall balanced picture, appealing otter head and keen eye. Excellent harsh coat and thick pelt, good topline which she held on the move. Finished off with thick carrot tail
South Wales Kennel Association
13th Oct 2023
Judge: Mr W Shorthose (Cundytyke)
I think hind movement has generally improved though the same cannot be said for fronts. Most were shown in good coat and only one exhibit was clearly of poor temperament.
RBCC
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
Really nice young bitch, strong enough in head, good size, balanced in the hand, nice front, not overdone in any department, moved soundly and shown in good coat. RCC
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
14th Oct 2023
Judge: Mrs Sue Baxter (Mysulan)
Firstly I’d like to thank The Border Terrier Club Committee for their very kind invitation to judge this Open show, I felt honoured and privileged . I thoroughly enjoyed my day and the hospitality on offer , the lunch certainly hit the spot..thank you Nancy Hogg. My two stewards, Jane Morton-Shaw and Marina Fleming kept things running smoothly and I am grateful for their support .
To the exhibitors , my thanks go unbounded as I had a lovely selection of good quality dogs to go over and there were certainly some tough decisions in many of the classes. It is an education to finally go over some of the dogs I have admired from the ring side. I am grateful that my decisions were taken, mostly in a sporting manner.
My general findings were , all males were intact , I found no kinked tails ( 1 dog had a bump on the underside of its tail , not a kink in my opinion), jackets were, as usual , at various stages of growth. I was impressed by the fact that all animals before me could be spanned , some a little easier than others.
Once again I feel compelled to comment on the state of nails and feet. In my opinion , many dogs had nails that were too long and some needed drastic fur trimming to enhance the shape of the feet.In my opinion it is a shame to groom your dogs for the ring but forget that ,especially whilst on the table, the judge has a perfect view of any, long nails and/or woolly “ Yeti” feet .
Best Junior
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Best In Show
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Best Bitch
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
One I’ve admired from ringside, nice to get the opportunity to go over her, has terrific breed type and no hint of exaggeration at any point, super head with good jaw depth and a set of teeth to complete the work kit. Eyes dark and expressive,
Legs straight and front narrow . Moderate neck , smooth lines into great shaped shoulders , just the right depth to the brisket and under line. Ribs flat and a good length , strong in loin . Topline and tail set very good . Cracking double coat with lovely texture and a great loose pliable pelt. Tail a lovely short carrot shape coming straight off the back . Rear angles good with a nice turn of stifle … All feet were well shaped and small with thick pads underneath . She moved true in all directions. Best Bitch and B.I.S
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
Junior - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
11th Nov 2023
Judge: Mr Mark Lowry (Ravenside)
Firstly, I would like to thank everyone for a lovely entry and also to the Scottish BTC for this opportunity. Special thanks go to my two stewards for the day who kept everything running smoothly and for their good company. Although the lighting in the hall isn’t the best, it was adequate and the large square ring was perfect for watching movement, something I feel is very important in a border terrier. On that note I found my main winners to excel in this department. I was pleased to judge some strong puppy classes and also some strong adult classes
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
Another quality bitch I’ve admired for a while, presented in excellent harsh wire coat. Strong head with keen dark eye. Excellent topline and tailset, easily spanned. Close call with first.
Sunderland and District Canine Society Open Show
26th Nov 2023
Judge: Lesley Armstrong-Rodgers ( Atron/Scottsway )
Thank you to the Committee of Sunderland and District Canine Society for the kind invitation to judge at this, their Open Show. It had a lovely atmosphere ringside which always bodes well for the society, exhibitors and judges alike. Thank you also to my steward for his assistance and who did a sterling job. Although a pleasing entry on paper it was unfortunately greatly marred by absentees, nevertheless the quality of the dogs I did have to go over were a credit to the breed and their owners all fitting the requirements of our breed standard.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
How this young grizzle and tan bitch has come on. On first appraisal she looked full of quality and just the right size for me and I was not disappointed after going over her. Owns a lovely head with dark expressive eye, strong muzzle, excellent big teeth and a correct scissor bite. She has a narrow front, enough bone and well padded neat feet. Her neck fits into a well placed shoulder, well ribbed back with no tendency to be oversprung. Correct underline. Shown in a well textured coat with a really loose pelt. On moving she was true, holding her topline with an excellent tailset. My BEST OF BREED and she was shortlisted in the Terrier Group. Well Done.
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
27th Jan 2024
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
Thank you to the committee of the YLC Border Terrier Club for this appointment, a very hard working team that pulled a lovely show together at a great venue and also my two very capable stewards Bridget Singh and Margaret Davies. To the exhibitors that also supported me on my wonderful entry for the day and generated a great atmosphere around the ring.
The lunch time interval also kept me busy with 6 lovely puppies taking part in the puppy walk, a great idea successfully carried out by the club and an opportunity to get the youngsters out and into a show environment – some promising youngsters to go over made the interval very pleasing.
I was really pleased with my final line ups on the day although I felt that the bitch classes were stronger than the dog classes, jackets with Crufts up and coming in a few weeks were varying so again thank you for putting exhibits forward that we all knew could do with some more jacket to just complete the picture.
Reserve Best In Show
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Reserve Best Bitch
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
16 month old grizzle bitch set down in super fit condition and lovely to go over, lovely feminine head and dark eye and neat V shaped ears. Clean shoulders and good in the rib - nice level top line in the stack and held on the move with a nice tail set, in excellent jacket/thick pelt – presents a lovely picture. Res Best Bitch and Reserve Best In Show
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
24th Feb 2024
Judge: Libby Tanton-Joy (Itsaso)
Thank you to the committee for inviting me to judge their open show held at Jedburgh, the home of the border terrier. It was a great privilege, and I had some amazing dogs present who are a credit to their owners, thank you for bringing them.
Thank you to my stewards for organising the rings so smoothly and keeping me on track so we finished at a reasonable time. The hospitality was second to none and I would like to thank the whole committee for this.
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
This bitch has the most beautiful head and expression with small ears framing her expression. With well placed shoulders flowing into a spannable rib, level topline finished off with a well set on carrot shaped tail. She moved with drive around the ring on small catlike feet. Considered in the challenge.
Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Golden Jubilee Open Show
17th Mar 2024
Judge: Mrs Margaret Davies (Glenorchy)
Many Thanks to the Society for inviting me to judge at their Golden Jubilee Open Show. Thank you to my two stewards who kept things running smoothly and also my grateful thanks to all the exhibitors who came under me and gave me a lovely entry.
Most of the exhibits were presented in a good clean condition, but a few could have done with a little finer tuning on their presentation. Just one level bite.
I find the true otter head is disappearing and movement left a lot to be desired, fronts were knitting and rears were moving close behind. Apart from that, I had an enjoyable day, thank you all.
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
stood alone in this class but worthy of her place. Good head, nice eye with keen expression, neat ears, correct dentition, good length of neck flowing into well laid shoulders. Good front and nice tight feet, correct topline which she held on the move, good jacket and pelt.
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
30th Mar 2024
Judge: Mrs Lynda Ward (Roundtown)
It was an honour to be invited to judge this, our parent club’s show. My thanks to the committee who ran such a lovely event with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. My judge’s gift is much appreciated and will be a treasured momento of the day.
My superstar stewards, Janice Johnson and Liz Barrett, worked hard and unobtrusively whilst keeping the classes moving smoothly over a long day – well done ladies.
Many thanks of course to the exhibitors who made the journey on a major bank holiday weekend giving a large and quality entry of 190 dogs making 229 entries plus 10 NFC.
I had some lovely sound and typical Borders to go over and, had I had them, I would have had no qualms in awarding 4 dog tickets and 5 bitch tickets.
Unfortunately there are always downsides in a big entry and today size was an issue with some overly large exhibits who were not spannable and very heavily built.
There were a number of youngsters which were obviously unused to having their mouths examined and more practice in a calm atmosphere would help to make them comfortable and avoid stress for them and their handlers.
Ears need watching as some were quite large and spoiled the head.
Sadly, as in the past I must complain about long tails. Tails are an integral aspect of the overall picture of a typical Border outline and long is simply wrong. Our breed standard is spartan compared to many others but for tails the description is clear and begins with, “Moderately short; fairly thick at base, then tapering.” Hopefully the issue will be addressed before the untypical becomes the norm.
On a positive note …
Feet were overall small and thickly padded although some would benefit from trimming and shorter nails.
There was a good number of lovely otter-like heads of correct proportions with well placed dark eyes and a keen expression.
As is usual these days coat presentation was generally good and today there were plenty of dense coats of correct texture and thick skins.
Do I think the quality shown in this entry bodes well for the breed? Yes.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
Attractive bitch who stands out for type and which won her the class. Otter-like head and keen eye. Good for size with excellent topline and tailset. Fit and drove out from well-muscled racey hindquarters.
National Terrier Club
6th Apr 2024
Judge: Miss Elspeth Jackson (Clipstone)
Thanks to the National Terrier Club for their invitation to judge at this prestigious show and to the exhibitors who did me the honour of judging their dogs. I was lucky to have two efficient stewards who kept things running smoothly, thank you Laura and Dave.
The entry showed a good depth of quality. In many classes the places were hotly contested with decisions needing to be made on the narrowest of margins. I was very pleased to find that there were some good coats on thick pelts and the nice thick short tails which set off a good border so well.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
Nicely made grizzle bitch of good size with super top line and tail. Feminine head of good proportions with keen expression. Strong loin and well-muscled hind quarters.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
12th May 2024
Judge: Mrs Laura Illingworth (Thorneyhurst)
Firstly thanks to the Midland Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their show, and to all the exhibitors for the massive entry which would of been hard to get through without the help of my two stewards Sharon Pickering and Margaret Bailey who did there best to make sure no exhibitors missed there classes
The quality of the exhibits was exceptional, Most dogs were in fit hard condition and presented well, the old saying many good dogs went without a card was only too true, We were blessed with good weather and a nice sized ring.
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Placing Critique
Another lovely girl, nice for size and pleasing head with keen look, strong jaw and teeth, good for bone moved true
National Dog Show
12th May 2024
Judge: Mr Patrick Glover (USA)
Yearling - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Stineval Sasha
Scottish Kennel Club (May)
16th May 2024
Judge: Miss Rebecca Barber (Alcumlow)
Thank you to SKC for inviting me to judge at their show, I thoroughly enjoyed my day. I was very pleased with my entry, thank you to all the exhibitors who value my opinion enough to enter their dogs under me. There were some very strong classes and some very pleasing youngsters. I was very pleased with my principle winners and I was delighted to see my BOB get shortlisted in a strong group and my BPIB get TPG3 in the puppy group. It was also an honour to make up two new well deserving champions, making it three new champions in one day over the two shows, which I believe is a new breed record.
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
Scottish Kennel Club (Ocober)
16th May 2024
Judge: Mr. Stewart Golding (Beaconpike)
Sorry for delay in critiques, work commitments had to take priority. Thank you to the committee for inviting me to judge the October show which was brought forward in conjunction with the May show. Thank you to my two stewards for keeping the ring running smoothly, which wasn’t easy with two shows running side by side. Thank you to the Exhibitors for a lovely entry and accepting my decisions in a sportsmanlike manner. I had some difficult decisions especially in the bitch classes where I just didn’t have enough cards to hand out. Coats from last time I judged had improved and it was a pleasure to see so many in correct double coat of depth. On the whole movement was good. I did find a couple of incorrect bites and one kinked tail
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
Placing Critique
A nice bitch really liked her for size, good strong head and correct bite and strong jaw, dark eye and well-placed ears, good neck and shoulders, narrow front standing on neat feet with thick pads. Level topline with well set on short tail, shown in thick double coat with good pelt, moved out really well
Class Critique
A super class where I wish I had more cards to hand out
Southern Counties Canine Association
1st Jun 2024
Judge: Dr Ian Gabriel (Gabybryl)
This was my first-time awarding Challenge Certificates in Border Terriers and many thanks to those that entered under a non-breed specialist, and well done for braving what was a bitter wind. If this was a representative entry, then I am heartened by the general health and condition of the breed. Good coats, good pelts and super large dentition were the majority. There are some nice youngsters in the lower classes. Just two points as a non-specialist if I might be permitted, firstly the standard calls for a small ear and I found quite a few otherwise nice exhibits with large houndy ears which did somewhat detract from the overall expression. Secondly several dogs broke quite markedly at the front pastern which spoilt the overall impression on the move, these points need watching.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
Placing Critique
Pleasing quality bitch who impressed with her overall shape and balance. She has a lovely head with good eye and correct ear. Correct short strong muzzle. Well laid shoulders, nice rib, correct overall length yet with short well-muscled loin. Nice tail and set. Moved well although to be critical she could have a little more drive from behind.
Three Counties Agricultural Society
8th Jun 2024
Judge: Mr Eddie Houston (Earthwise)
My thanks to the Society for inviting me, to my very capable stewards, Bill and Tricia for their efficiency and helpfulness and especially to the exhibitors who afforded me the honour of going over their dogs.
The weather was kind and the ring of sufficient size to allow dogs to get into their stride.
Overall I felt that there was more quality in the bitches but was more than pleased with my main winners in both sexes. Size and front movement continue to be problems and coats were at all stages of growth-this did affect some placings. I only found one undershot bite and all males were entire. Several dogs were carrying rather too much condition but more worrying were the few who were almost painfully thin which also meant that these dogs couldn’t possibly possess the muscle needed for work. A number of dogs would benefit from more exercise to improve their muscletone.
RBCC
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
Placing Critique
Really liked this 21 month old grizzle. Lovely young lady of good size. Strong but feminine head with good bite, neck flows nicely into well laid shoulder,super straight front, well ribbed back, level topline ending in carroty tail.Super coat and pelt, she moved with reach and drive. Reserve CC.
Border Union Agricultural Society
16th Jun 2024
Judge: Mr. David Matthews (Tojamatt)
My thanks to the Society for the invitation to Judge one of my favourite shows, it didn’t all go to plan with the weather playing its part. I would like to thank all the exhibitors for going along with my decision to stay outside despite the weather, and my special thanks to stewards Judy Carr and Audrey Coltart for braving the weather also. Also my thanks to Euan for posting my judging book and critique notes and to whomever handed it in.
Sorry for delay, holidays and work have played their part. I had some lovely dogs to go over and thank you all for bringing them.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle bitch of a handy size, narrow straight front, head of good proportion with dark eye and neat well placed ears giving a good keen expression. Nice length of neck flowing into correct shoulders, good rib and loin, topline and tail set. Presented in a good harsh double coat with thick loose pelt, moved well both ways, nice example of the breed.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
29th Jun 2024
Judge: Mrs Margaret Sneddon (Kersfell)
I would like to thank the Committee for offering me this appointment, I was honoured to be given this opportunity. Thank you also to my stewards for all their hard work keeping the show running as smoothly as possible, for which I was very grateful. There were some lovely dogs present but front movement and lack of correct length and angulation of the upper arm continues to be a problem in some exhibits as well as size and correct coat . We should not forget the first line in the breed standard “essentially a working terrier”.
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
Placing Critique
very nice otter head and keen expression. Well balanced construction with a straight front, good topline, short tail of good shape. Very good, deep double coat and thick, loose pelt. Moved well
Windsor Championship Dog Show
29th Jun 2024
Judge: Mrs Sandra Girling (Benattivo)
Thank you to the officers and committee of Windsor Championship Dog Show for the invitation to judge at this level for the first time at such a prestigious show. I must also thank my two very experienced stewards Bill & Trish Gray who were a great support to me with their calm, friendly and pleasant manner. I would also like to express my sincere thanks to all the exhibitors who entered their border terriers under me and accepted my decisions in a sporting manner.
The weather became very hot as the day progressed with some dogs flagging a little on the move. Fortunately we had some shade via the marquee, the grass had got quite dried out and I felt a few exhibits didn’t move as well as others on it but generally movement was better than I have observed in the past. I must also mention how disappointed I was to find so many exhibits with dirty teeth, cleaning them should be part of a dog’s care and grooming routine.
I was so delighted with my top winning border terriers that I felt had exceptional breed quality and were presented and shown to best advantage.
Many quality exhibits were in some classes down the line or unplaced due to the depth of quality present and on another day may change places.
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
5th Jul 2024
Judge: Miss Anita Harrison (Iacheslei)
Many thanks to the committee for the invitation to judge. Everyone worked hard throughout the day to ensure it ran smoothly. There were a few clashes with the main Boston Championship show but these were well managed. Thanks also to the competitors for accepting my decisions in a sporting manner and creating a wonderful atmosphere around the ring.
There was a super entry of 172 dogs making 217 entries which I found both exciting and daunting, having had a total knee replacement operation just weeks before!
Overall, I found the standard of exhibits was good. Coats were a mixture ranging from pure undercoat to absolute perfection. The majority of exhibits were spannable. All dogs were entire. I found just one undershot mouth. I forgave loose movement in some of the younger dogs which will hopefully tighten as they mature, but adults moving wide or close had to be penalised. Several lacked bone and substance, being on the leg as well as short coupled making the outline somewhat squarer than I was looking for. Handling was generally good, with one very professional young handler who really impressed me with her skills. My main winners were presented in stunning condition, and I had some difficult decisions to make in the higher classes, wishing I could award more than just one Challenge Certificate.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
Placing Critique
Attractive grizzle of nice size with feminine head and expression , big teeth, strong jaw, good reach of neck, good length of rib, correct topline and tail set, strong loin, good front and rear angulation, straight front, good bone and feet. Moved well.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
13th Jul 2024
Judge: Mr. Mark Ord (Marnadee)
Having attended & a long association with this breed club I was very honoured when I received the invitation to judge this show. It is pleasing that the club has such a wealth of supporters who do such sterling work and put on shows that make you want to return to. Walking into this venue today brought back many memories of the past and I am sure the pioneers of the club would be thrilled to see how it has prospered from humble beginnings. The Border Terrier continues to hold its own compared to many of today’s terrier breeds both as a companion and show dog. Breed standards were compiled by looking at the dogs of the time and their working capabilities fitting this purpose, this should still be adhered to now despite hunting no longer being allowed. This being said dogs should be presented for the show ring to the best of an owner’s capabilities, in hard muscular condition and coat presented clean and fit for the purpose of working in rough terrain.
I today found mouths to be good in the majority and I like to see large dentition along with a correct scissor bite. Several had eyes that needed attention in the way of cleaning before coming into the show ring. We still are seeing the incorrect flipping front action due to short upper arms and if not addressed this will become the norm. After my last appointment, I was pleased to only see a small minority where scissoring had been used on the coats which should not be the case. I did find today several coats that I would class as broken rather than the desirable tight harsh top weatherproof coat with undercoat for warmth. On a positive note, the bitches were easy to span and only a minority of males could not be. Pelts were pretty good being both thick & loose.
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
Placing Critique
another pleasing youngster, lovely in head & neck, good top line well held, correct bone & size, particularly liked her sound quarters & well set tail, prefer pelt & coat of 1. Nice free steady mover with well held top line. Has good feet & was in excellent body condition.
Paignton Championship Show
2nd Aug 2024
Judge: Tracey Anscombe (Orangebox)
Thank you to the officers and committee for my first-time appointment at this level. This show is my ‘local’ which made it even more special, If you have never been it is worth the trip down the M5 a warm welcome will meet you.
I was thrilled with the quality of my entry, one observation I did find a lot of untidy feet, splayed toes, long nails and thin pads, I did however find no kinked tails and only one mouth fault.
Yearling - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
Placing Critique
Close up to 1 with much to like. Workman like grizzle bitch, typical in head with a varmity expression, well set ears and nice dark eye shape. Balanced and spannable. Presented in double coat with depth and thick pelt. Moved with economy around the ring just didn’t quite have the presence of 1 today but I am sure these places will be reverse throughout their showing careers.
The Midland Border Terrier Club 40th Anniversary Championship Show
4th Aug 2024
Judge: Mrs Jill Stevens (Cobstoneway)
I would like to thank the officers and committee of the club for inviting me to judge this 40th Anniversary show, and for the hospitality on the day. Thank you also to the hardworking stewards, it was a long and very busy day. Most of all, thank you to the exhibitors for giving me such a fabulous entry. I appreciated each and every exhibit, and had the privilege of going over so many quality dogs that difficult decisions had to be made and many lovely dogs went cardless. Foremost, I see the Border Terrier as ‘essentially a working terrier’ and was therefore looking for construction that would render this possible. A few exhibits were too big, too wide or too deep in brisket which might prevent them from going to ground, or even cause them to get stuck. A few had very thin skin – skin must be thick. Most bites were good, just a few with teeth out of line or missing. Coats come and go, so were understandably at different stages. However, on a working terrier a good hard coat does complete the picture. Good movement and a strong, even, economical gait comes from soundness of construction and the muscle tone of a well exercised dog. Therefore I looked for good layback of shoulder and the correct length and angle of upper arm to give a good reach in front, a strong loin, good bend of stifle and well angulated, well muscled hindquarters to give matching drive from the rear.
Yearling - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
Class Critique
This was a close call between these two bitches.
Wolsingham & Wear Valley Agricultural Society Open Show
8th Sep 2024
Judge: Mrs Norma Ellis (Normbar)
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
Placing Critique
Feminine bitch gorgeous head and eye well placed ears, deep muzzle. Well layed back shoulders and straight front Easily spanned. Good rib and loin, double tight fitting coat with good harsh texture , thick pelt. Level topline and tail set, good quarters strode out well Best Op Sex.
Darlington Championship Show
13th Sep 2024
Judge: Mrs L Roberts
Yearling - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
The Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
28th Sep 2024
Judge: Mrs Anne Heathcote (Saxheath)
Mid Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
12th Oct 2024
Judge: Mrs. V. Mann (Valger)
I would like to thank The Committee for their invitation to judge their Open Show. I thoroughly enjoyed my day. Thank you to my very efficient Stewards Mark & Julie for keeping everything on track & The Club for their hospitality & splendid gift.
Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
19th Oct 2024
Judge: Mrs Margaret Armstrong (Carrickfarm)
Thank you to The Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge The Open Show at Low Hesket, one of my favourite shows and venues. As always hospitality was superb and a lovely enjoyable lunch.
Thank you to Judy and Andrea my two excellent stewards who kept proceedings running smoothly and on time and thank you to all exhibitors.
I had a lovely entry and some lovely dogs to judge. A very enjoyable day.
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
Placing Critique
2 yr old grizzle of nice size. Lovely head, short muzzle,neat ears. Straight front and neat feet.
Good neck flowing into well laid shoulders and straight topline and well set carrot tail. Well ribbed back. Nicely balanced and spannable. Double coat and moved with drive
Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association Group Open Show
20th Oct 2024
Judge: Mrs Sue Spafford (Dassett)
Post Graduate - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Stineval Sasha JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle bitch, strong but feminine head, neat ears, good top line. Nice carrot shaped tail, straight front, neat feet, thick tight double coat,
