Show Placings
Exonian C A Open show
4th Dec 2021
Judge: Mr K Andrew
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
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.
Minor Puppy - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Coventry Ladies’ Kennel Society Open Show
1st Jan 2022
Judge: David Bell (Balintyne)
Best Puppy
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Worcester & Malvern CS Open Show
3rd Jan 2022
Judge: Jacqui Ward (Mianja)
Puppy /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Boston & District Canine Society Championship Show
9th Jan 2022
Judge: Professor A S Milton (Baillieswells)
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Nuneaton & DCS Open Show
16th Jan 2022
Judge: Mr M Oxley
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG3, Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Manchester Championship Show
20th Jan 2022
Judge: Mr Stuart Plane
What a weekend it proved to be for Border Terriers
Minor Puppy - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Gloucester & DCS Open Show
5th Feb 2022
Judge: Jane Newport (Digaden)
Junior /
Third Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
6th Feb 2022
Judge: Mr Peter Armstrong (Atron)
Many sincere thanks to the Officers and Committee of the Midland Border Terrier Club for the kind invitation to judge at this Show, It really seemed to be a success judging by the happy atmosphere in the venue and congratulations must go to all the hard working Committee for the superb organization on the day despite the Covid regulations and the inclement weather. My thanks must also go to my two efficient stewards, Mr. Richard Wright and Mrs. Joyce Whiting, for their invaluable assistance in keeping the ring running smoothly and keeping me in check.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Best Puppy
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
Eye catching 8 month old baby so full of breed type. Good head with broad skull and a kind expressive eye of good colour. Small well set on ears. Elegant clean outline. Straight forelegs. Good length of body, well ribbed back. Good topline maintained on the move. Good angulation both front and rear. Decent coat. Moved soundly with drive and enthusiasm. BEST PUPPY DOG and subsequently BEST PUPPY IN SHOW.
West Midlands Terrier Society Open Show
12th Feb 2022
Judge: Dog Judge:-Dave Lee Bitch Judge:-Ken Francis
May I take this opportunity to thank the Officers and Committee of the West Midlands Terrier Society for the invitation to judge at their Premier Terrier Show, venue the KC Building at Stoneleigh Saturday 12thFebruary. I also convey my thanks to Mandy Secretary for the Lovely Lunch in addition to the hard-working Ladies in the Kitchen. I also thank my two Stewards Jo and Graham Dowdy for keeping things running efficiently and smoothly. Finally, I thank the exhibitors as without you there’s no show. The atmosphere around all rings were fantastic as it always is at this Premier Terrier Club. Dave Lee
The dog judge and myself selected both BOB and BP from the dog classes. Was pleased to see the puppy win BPIS. Ken Francis
Puppy - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Terrier Club of Devon & Cornwall Open Show
20th Feb 2022
Judge: Tracey Anscombe (Orangebox)
Thank you to the committee for the invitation to judge at your show and to the Southern Border Terrier Club for their support of the classes. I thoroughly enjoyed my day, there was a friendly ringside atmosphere and lovely exhibits to judge. I could span all the exhibits and found no mouth faults or kinked tails.
Puppy /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
Younger grizzle dog puppy who still requires a little more time to be the finished picture. Pleasing in head and expression and is of a nice size. Still a little loose in front movement but holds his shape on the move and has drive from behind. Was in better coat than those placed behind him today who are also very promising puppies.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Limited Show
6th Mar 2022
Judge: Mandy Holmes (Bimandi)
Firstly I would like to thank The Southern Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge and for their hospitality on the day. Also many thanks to everyone that gave me the privilege of going over their dogs and congratulation to all my winners.
All males were entire. All tails straight. One or two untidy mouths but nothing to be classed as a fault.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Best Puppy
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
9 months A well balanced youngster who was easy to span, coarse jacket and thick pelt, pleasing head with broad skull and well set ears. Good angels front and rear with decent width of thigh. Straight front. Ribs well back. moved sound coming and going.
Crufts
11th Mar 2022
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Curtis (Matamba)
Crufts has always been a memorable experience for me, from sitting ringside to winning top honours in this breed, and to retire from judging with my last appointment being Crufts was a special occasion. Many thanks to all the exhibitors for the entry of 233 dogs making 257 entries with 28 absentees.
It was a long day and with only one steward for almost all of the classes my sincere thanks must go to Robyn Burnett. Plus a special thanks to Judy Carr for stepping in to help Robyn in those last big classes to help us finish just in time to get the BOB to the Group. Also to Joyce Martin the photographer who worked hard throughout the day to get those special pictures, thank you. I enjoyed my day judging but found some of the classes quite challenging.
I was pleased with the lineup and my principal winners, but a little disappointed with what I was finding when the dogs came to the table. The standard reads “Head like that of an otter moderately broad in skull and small ears dropping close to cheek” but some were so untypical of our breed with narrow skulls, weak jaws and small teeth, with ears that were too big and standing away from the cheek.
In every class there were some that just could not be spanned - being too deep in the chest and strong in the rib. Movement was better behind than in front. Finding dogs with a short upper arm, this not only restricts the movement but when standing almost gives a Fox Terrier type front which I was seeing, to start accepting these deviations as acceptable would be a sad day for our breed as we know it.
General condition of the dogs was good, jackets came in all stages mostly acceptable with some good thick pelts. One problem I found today was the baiting of dogs on the table. In some cases it made it hard going for dogs and judge - no need to top and tail and bait all at the same time - personally I just needed the dogs to stand still.
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
Not so strong in head as winner, a little longer in the muzzle, overall picture well balanced dog with the right front assembly, ribs well laid back and in good harsh jacket and thick pelt.
The Terrier Club of South Wales
20th Mar 2022
Judge: Mrs Julie North (Northborders)
I would like to thank the Committee for inviting me to judge the Border Terriers at this very friendly well run show and thank you for the lovely lunch , I thoroughly enjoyed myself and thank the Exhibitors for your fabulous entry but such a shame COVID showed it's ugly head again meaning there were quite a few absentees however I had some really nice dogs to go over
Best Puppy
Name at show: BPIS, Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
9mth old Grizzle and Tan boy , stood alone but a super puppy , head developing nicely with a good bite and nice big teeth , lovely expression and super temperament, moderate length of neck into well placed shoulders, shown in good coat of good texture , nice tail set if a little long he carries it well , good angulation and narrow throughout, pasterns and feet need to tighten up his highlight though is his effortless movement he really covers the ground BP BPIS Congratulations
National Terrier
2nd Apr 2022
Judge: Miss J Singh (Vandamere)
I would like to thank the Secretary of the National Terrier Club and committee members for their warm welcome and superb hospitality. I had a nice entry of 113. Inevitably there were some absentees. It was encouraging to see young handlers in the ring and I hope they continue to enjoy the show scene.
I found three wry mouths and one exhibit with a kink tail. A couple of exhibits were in need of muscle tone and condition. This is achievable by good feeding and exercise and not starvation. My thanks go to my very capable stewards who kept the proceedings running smoothly.
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
His outline was good as was his size. Coat was harsh and his pelt was thick. He has good ribs and I was able to span him. Slightly weak in pasterns and not the condition of the winner.
Wellingborough & DCS Open Show
9th Apr 2022
Judge: Mr Ken Fraser (Ycart)
Best Puppy
Name at show: TPG4, Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
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.
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
Harsh coat and thick pelt, moved with drive, level topline, tailset good, strong rear quarters
WELKS
25th Apr 2022
Judge: Mr S A Mcpherson (Brumberhill))
Thank you to the WELKS committee for the invitation to judge their show and to my stewards, who did a sterling job, keeping everything moving, to get through the entry.
Wasn’t sure what to expect, being on a Monday, in the current financial climate, so was delighted to receive an entry of 126 dogs, making 181 entries, topping the Terrier Group, by quite a margin. Thank you to those exhibitors, for bringing their dogs, and wanting my opinion. There were very few I’d actually judged before, having last judged at Blackpool ’19.
We were blessed with a lovely sunny day, and a huge double sized ring, giving everyone full chance to show their dogs to full advantage.
I felt it was a high quality entry, especially the bitches, where, I felt, my final bitch challenge line up was one of the best I’ve judged. There were a number of bitches, both there, and in the placings, I have no doubt will gain their crowns, given a fair chance.
Main points of concern, as last time I judged, at Blackpool ’19, are still deep stops, with a rounder eye, giving an untypical expression. A few, with this problem, also had tighter, untidy bites, as they were very short in muzzle.
A few knobbly tails, some too long, carried high, but most were ok and well carried.
On the whole, I thought movement had improved, although still a few high steppers, due to incorrect shoulder and upper arm. Toplines were good, on most. Presentation, on the whole, was good, as most were in good coat, or evidence of texture.
Puppy - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Joint Border Terrier Clubs' Championship Show
30th Apr 2022
Judge: Miss Elspeth Jackson (Clipstone)
What a great honour it was to be invited to judge the Joint Border Terrier Clubs’ Show in the Border Terrier’s centenary year. Waiting an extra two years did not decrease my excitement for the appointment and my anticipation was richly rewarded with a super entry both in turns of numbers and quality.
My critique must start with several expressions of gratitude to those who made this appointment possible and so enjoyable.
To the Committee for inviting me to judge at such a prestigious event. It was truly an honour, and the memory of the day will be one I shall treasure. Further the hospitality that myself and my family were shown at the show and the dinner following was much appreciated. We all had a great time.
To the show organisers, especially Show Manger Helen Axford, whose organisation and show layout allowed everything to run smoothly even when the weather was a little less than kind to us.
To my capable and efficient Stewards Christine Horner and Sharon Pickering. Having you in the ring with me was both supportive and enjoyable.Thank you to the exhibitors for giving me a lovely entry to judge. I enjoyed judging each and every dog whether in the cards or not. I had some tough decisions to make and in the stronger classes five places was insufficient for the depth of quality. A number of dogs I liked very much went cardless. I loved the line up in both my challenges and was able to find the type I wanted in all classes.
I was glad to find some super coats and pelts. The changeable late April Border weather and biting wind certainly showed us the importance of these. It left us in no doubt that for a Border Terrier working the Border country in the colder winter months and at higher elevations a good coat is a must. I understand that it is not always possible to present your dogs at a show in the perfect jacket but when out of coat, personally I prefer to see a dog neatly stripped back rather than left with a few top coat hairs.
I found three mouths with teeth well out of line and a couple of tails were questionable but overall the quality was excellent.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Reserve Best Puppy
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Best Opposite Sex Puppy
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
Promising youngster with a pleasing head, nice reach of neck, ribs of good shape and well laid back, good top line and well-set tail of good length. Thick top coat but not as harsh as it might be when not so near coming out. Moved out well going round to take BPD.
National Dog Show
6th May 2022
Judge: Mrs Margaret Sneddon (Kersfell)
Thank you to the Committee for the invitation to judge at this show; I had received an invitation to judge the breed here in 2007 but was unable to accept due to a previous appointment so was very pleased to be offered the opportunity again. Thanks to my stewards for all their hard work during the day and also to the exhibitors for entering some lovely Border Terriers. There were some wonderful quality exhibits but I was particularly pleased with my line-up of unbeaten bitches with 4 or 5 in contention for the top honours, a very difficult but enjoyable decision.
It is 50 years since I won my first CC in the breed and at that time it was emphasised to novices by the experienced exhibitors that the most important part of the breed standard was the first line “essentially a working terrier” and I have always had this at the forefront in my mind when judging the breed. Not, does it work, but could it do so; meaning could it follow a horse and go to ground when needed; also could it get out again.
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
grizzle of nice size with an attractive head and expression. Thick pelt, coat ok but nearly ready to blow; feet and pasterns could be better and was a little wayward on the move.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Open Show
6th May 2022
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
I would like to thank the Officers and Committee of The Midland Border Terrier Club for the invite to judge the Open Show held in conjunction with The Birmingham National. The hospitality showed by both clubs on the day was tremendous plus the wonderful gift received with many thanks – I will remember my first club show appointment for a long time.
I could not of been more pleased with my entry on the day so a big thank you for all of the exhibitors that gave me the opportunity to go over their dogs and the quality presented. Junior Bitch, Limit Bitch and Limit Dog classes were of real quality and on another day placings could of easily been switched. That aside I was really pleased with my Bitch/Dog line ups having some real quality to pick my main winners from.
Also a special mention to my two stewards Sharon and La for keeping my classes going and to Bev who co-ordinated between the two rings whilst the judging was going on.
It was nice having the opportunity to see Terrier Group at the Birmingham National at the end of the day and see my Best Dog go on to represent the Border Terrier by getting short listed in a really big group, he had his 3 CC today and I was delighted to see he has become a Champion in his own right.
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
11 month old grizzle of medium construction and in full jacket, Lovely head/expression/ear placement. Nice in the shoulder and rib which with his length of loin gave him a lovely outline when stacked and on the move. Movement was sound.
Coventry & DKA Open Show
22nd May 2022
Judge: Jimmi Johnston-White (Gioia)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Best Puppy
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Puppy /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
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.
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
Nice size with a good head and expression. Good top line and tail set moved well. Not as harsh in coat as the winner
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.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
Lighter grizzle and tan. Good head, keen eye and well set ears. Excellent neck, shoulders and forequarters with a good return of upper arm. Not too heavy in bone. Easily spanned and ribbed well back. Good top line and racy hindquarters. He moved freely and easily in profile and was accurate coming and going. I liked him a lot, he was unlucky to meet 1 today.
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.
Junior /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
Lots to like about this boy of correct size. Typical border head with strong muzzle and good skull. Just right for bone, general construction is good with correct angulation front and rear. Nice outlines and moves OK carrying a correctly placed tail. Has a decent coat and pelt . Rather down on his front pasterns.
Three Counties Championship Show
9th Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs M J Alexander (Glenbucket)
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
Similar remarks preferred head of 1
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!
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
Good honest young dog with correct coat, sound on move, good head and sound on move. Little deep in chest but spannable .
Novice - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
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.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
Nice for size & he has a good head. Good neck, a little wide in front, good depth to his body. Well made hindquarters with a good turn of stifle, correct tailset. In a nice coat, moves well behind & showed well.
East of England
9th Jul 2022
Judge: Mr Bob Blackley (Vaevictus)
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
Good headed dog with a good coat and pelt, well boned, good angulation, good size and balance, moved well both ways.
The Northern Border Terrier Club 50th Championship Show
16th Jul 2022
Judge: Mr Euan Castel (Flutorum)
It was an honour to judge the Club’s 50th Championship Show at Bowburn. Many thanks to the Officers and committee for their kind invitation and warm welcome at the show. Thank you to my efficient stewards Graham Richardson and Mark Atkinson for keeping everything on track. Thankfully the show avoided the excessive temperatures of the heatwave and although still hot the hall remained comfortable for both dogs and exhibitors. Sincere thanks to all exhibitors for providing me with a lovely entry, it was a privilege to go over your dogs. I found an equal depth of quality in both dogs and bitches and very pleased with the final line-ups.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
A very pleasing youngster with a good overall size and balance. Well proportioned otter like head, well placed ear. Straight front, good bone, narrow body and well placed ribs. Harsh coat and good pelt. Carroty tail. Nice topline held on move, racy quarters and moved soundly for handler.
Evesham Premier Open Show
17th Jul 2022
Judge: Mrs Felicity Snook (Pitcombe)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG4, Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Leeds Championship Dog Show
22nd Jul 2022
Judge: Mrs J Fawcett (Carrock)
My thanks to the Leeds City & District Canine Association for their kind invitation to judge their Championship show, enabling me to award my first set of Challenge Certificates. Thank you also to my two stewards, Mags & Bob, who kept the ring running smoothly throughout the day which meant we managed to finish by 3pm before the rain came. My biggest thanks go to all the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to go over their dogs and for the sporting manner in which my decisions were accepted – I had a fantastic entry for a show taking place on a Friday and in the holiday season – I was absolutely delighted.
Just a comment about the ring – the rather large metal tent fixings that took up quite a lot of the ring were a bit of a hazard. However, I believe we managed to work around them well and I was able to see the movement of all the exhibits.
As you would expect, coats were at various stages but on the whole most were acceptable. All dogs were entire, there were no kinked tails and just one or two untidy mouths. When I last judged in November 2019 my main concern was size and this still remains an issue - I was unable to span quite a number of both dogs & bitches on the day and this was reflected in my decisions. Poor front angulation also seems to be an issue – a number of upright shoulders and a lot of very wayward front legs. I thought it also relevant to mention the number of long, thin muzzles, particularly in the younger classes, that seem to be creeping into the breed - Border Terriers should have short, strong muzzles.
That all said, I had some quality dogs to judge – I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
G/T, lovely headed dog with well-set ears, dark eye and good dentition. Another that was well angulated both front and rear. Spanned well, good length of body and ribbed well back. Good pelt and jacket. Moved soundly round the ring – a well-balanced dog.
Minehead & DCS Open Show
27th Jul 2022
Judge: Mrs C E Sansom (Tarkaswell)
I would like to thank the officers and committee of Minehead & District Canine Society for the invitation to judge at their open show, held in conjunction with the Dunster Country Fair. My steward Vicky Prince, was a great help and kept the ring running smoothly. Thank you to the exhibitors for a lovely entry and for accepting my decisions in a sporting manner.
I had some quality borders to go over that were a privilege to judge, and as always, my decisions reflected my interpretation of the breed standard on the day. I was delighted with the winners that came forward for the challenge.
The weather was kind and not too hot, there was a friendly atmosphere and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Special Yearling /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me
Placing Critique
This was a workmanlike grizzle and tan dog, just coming 14 months. He had a masculine head, moderately broad, with a dark eye, strong muzzle and correct bite. Balanced in his construction, his neck flowed into a narrow and fairly long body, with his ribs carried well back, a level top line and well set tail. He was presented in a harsh, dense coat with a thick pelt and moved out soundly.
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.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
A workmanlike dog, shown in hard, fit condition. Lovely otter head and a keen varminty expression. Lovely reach of neck, flowing into smooth, well laid back shoulder placement. Narrow throughout with strong loin. Well-muscled hind quarters and good tail set. Excellent, harsh double jacket. Moved out well, keeping a level topline moving around the ring.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
7th Aug 2022
Judge: Miss Rebecca Barber (Alcumlow)
Thank you very much to the committee of the Midland Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge this show, it is a club that is very dear to me having been a member for over 30 years and I very much enjoyed my day. Thank you to my three stewards Laura, La and Richard for doing an amazing job of looking after me and keeping me well fuelled! Thank you also to all of the exhibitors who made the decision to enter their beautiful dogs under me, I know that we have to be selective in this current climate and I was absolutely delighted with such a fabulous entry. I felt overall that the dogs were of excellent quality and the majority were turned out beautifully. Heads are good in the main, we are getting away from that bulbus rounded skull and teddy bear expression and going back to a more traditional look. I would say the things that need addressing the most are front angulation, there are still quite a few dogs lacking in upper arm and also poor rear angulation appears to be creeping in a little. However, I found some beautiful dogs and I was very pleased with my main winners, some classes were extremely competitive and some good dogs had to go cardless. I thank you all for persevering in the heat, it was a tough day for me judging in such intense heat, so I am sure it was difficult for the exhibits too. I hope my winners appreciated our crochet efforts with the personalised rosettes, which mum and I took a lot of pleasure in making.
Junior - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Bournemouth Championship Show
13th Aug 2022
Judge: Mr. David Matthews (Tojamatt)
Many thanks to Bournemouth Canine Association for asking me to judge, and also thanks to my two more than able stewards. It was a really hot day topping 35 degrees C, if I had entered I wouldnt have attened so I understand perfectly why we had quite a few absentees, and a outbreak of covid from a previous show, added to this ,many thanks to everyone who entered. I had some really nice examples of the breed to go over, and some hard decisions. The tent provided us with some much needed shade, and the dogs behaved very well and coped with the heat admirably. I had a couple of dogs not move as well as I know they can so gave them another opportunity to move again, and they put in a much better performance .The dogs were all presented in good order, clean teeth, short nails and tidy coats. A few coats were outstanding, harsh and dense, among the best I’ve come across.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Another really nice junior dog, again a handy sized that is easily spanned in good coat and pelt. Good head with correct bite and keen expression, nice length of neck flowing into good shoulders nice in rib and loin good rear end, well conditioned and moved well both ways holding a good top line as he went.
Welsh Kennel Club
21st Aug 2022
Judge: Mr T Johnston
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Nice head shape, good muzzle and dark eye. Moderate neck, good body depth and width. Straight legs, good feet, well angled rear and good tail. Good harsh coat, spanable and moved with good reach holding a nice shape
Driffield Championship Dog Show
26th Aug 2022
Judge: Mrs Anne Heathcote (Saxheath)
I would like to thank you all for allowing me to go over your dogs and also our Stewards John and Marvin for keeping everything running smoothly enabling me to finish in good time .
I have to say that I found movement in a number of classes worrying . Although most dogs looked ok in profile when viewed from the front and rear there were too many moving closely and a few flicking wrists . This was reflected in my placings with the soundest being placed highest .
Mouths were good with just one level bite but there were both dogs and bitches which I could not span . Coats were , on the whole , pretty good .
Junior - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
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.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Moved with a bit of something about him, both ways and kept a balanced shape in profile movement. Straight front leg and good bone and feet. Good depth of brisket and well ribbed back with strong loin into a well made rear. Enjoying his tail on the move, but forgivable for a young male. Well balanced head with nice small ear for of breed type. Keen and alert expression.
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.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Varminty expression, masculine strong head, nice length of neck into well laid shoulders, level topline into well set tail, correct rear angulation, presented in fit show condition. Excellent coat, moved with drive.
South Wales Kennel Association
6th Oct 2022
Judge: Mr Stewart Golding (Beaconpike)
Thank you to the committee for inviting me to judge, this was my first time awarding CC’s. Thank you to my stewards for keeping the ring running smoothly. A big thank you must go to the exhibitors for a good entry especially on a Thursday in the middle of Wales in the current climate we live in. I only have a couple of concerns. Movement is paramount in our breed and these dogs should be able to cover ground easily I found due to poor shoulder angulation a few had restrained front movement. I did forgive coat in class placings where evidence of a new coat was present, however I did find a lot of single coated dogs possibly down to over grooming, my main winners all had correct double coat of depth. I had a very enjoyable day, thank you to everyone for accepting my decisions gracefully.
Junior - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Open Show
5th Nov 2022
Judge: Mandy Holmes (Bimandi)
Many thanks to EABT for asking me to judge and to all the exhibitors for entering under me.
All males entire. 3 dogs with level bites, the rest all had good mouths. No kinked tails. Some very nice youngsters in the ring today, a real credit to their breeders.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
17mth another very good male. Shown in full coat with thick pelt and spannable. Excellent head and expression, straight front, good angles front and rear with a good width of thigh. Ribs well back. Shown in hard working condition.
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
12th Nov 2022
Judge: Mr Eddie Houston (Earthwise)
I won my first Crufts qualifier at this show 25 years ago and it has always been one of my favourites. It was an honour to be invited to judge and my thanks go to the Scottish Club for their hospitality. Thanks also to my very capable stewards Bill Shorthose and Judy Carr.My sincere thanks to all those who entered and allowed me the privilege of going over their dogs.
Today I found there to be a much greater depth of quality among the bitches with there being many promising puppies and some very nice animals in the upper classes,particularly limit and open. This depth of quality was not apparent in a number of the dog classes although I was pleased with my main winners.
As would be expected there was some diversity in size and type.A number of exhibits of both sexes were up to size- I have big hands so if I find them difficult to span they are probably too big. I found all males to be entire, no serious mouth faults and one kinked tail.Of most concern was the number of dogs with very poor front movement and the number with atypical heads; some too long in muzzle and a few where the muzzle was too short, the latter giving a rather cat like look. Coats and pelts were generally good and a few dogs would benefit from more exercise to improve their muscletone.A fairly minor fault, but one which detracts from the overall outline, were the dogs which carried their tails curled over their backs i.e “gay tailed” as opposed to carrying their tails gaily.
Some of these faults are aesthetic but others such as size and soundness are not and we should be mindful that our breed is “essentially a working terrier.”
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
18 month grizzle of good size and type.Masculine head, good coat and pelt, tail well set on.Well balanced and free moving.Close up to first but not quite as good in coat today.
Sedgley & Gornal Canine Association Premier Open Show
27th Nov 2022
Judge: Mrs. Lesley Armstrong-Rodgers ( Scottsway )
Thank you to the Officers and Committee for inviting me to judge at this, their first Premier Show. It was a very well run Show with both exhibitors and judges in mind. Thank you to my able steward, Eliza Hajdas, who kept the ring running smoothly with a constant smile. I thoroughly enjoyed my day, unfortunately there were a few absentees, but I was delighted with the quality of my entry. Thanks must also go to all the exhibitors who gave me the chance to go over their dogs.
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
I found this young grizzle male nearing 18 months so nice to go over. Lovely for size and owns a very good head of correct proportions with such a typical expression. Straight front with enough bone. Correct shoulder placement and well ribbed back, spanned okay and has a thick loose pelt. Standing and moving he holds a level topline with a well set on tail carried correctly. Shown today in a good harsh jacket. Movement in front was true and his strong hindquarters enabled him to move with drive from behind which gave him 1st over a super bitch and then eventually RESERVE BEST OF BREED.
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 .
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
A class decided by fine margins the first two of similar make and shape and in good condition this one moving out soundly to take the class.
Boston & District Canine Society
8th Jan 2023
Judge: Tracy Butler (Ycart)
Firstly I would like to thank the officers and committee for inviting me to judge there well run show,also many thanks must go to my very capable stewards on an excellent job in keeping the ring running smoothly.
The biggest thanks must go the exhibitors for there entries,and there sportsmanship on my decisions.
In my opinon,my findings where as follows,the standard asks for “essencially a working terrier”,this is a statement that is very close to my heart.
Unfortunatley some do not fit this,short upperarms are still very present,restricting reach in movement.Some dogs would benefit from less food and more exercise.
Muscle tone varied greatly,some dogs lacking,these dogs are bred to do a job.
With the rising costs of entries,some exhibits would benefit greatly from a good tidy up and the mud removed from there under bellies.
I was pleased with my overall winners,some nice quality exhibits.
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
19 month grizzle,pleasing head,flat skull,strong muzzle,correct bite,clean neck & shoulders,striaght front,enough bone,stood on well padded feet,strong well muscled loin,good muscle toned quarters,thick pelt,coat going over,moved out well.
Gloucester & DCS Open Show
25th Feb 2023
Judge: Gillian Knight (Talanors)
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
The Southern Border Terrier Open Show
5th Mar 2023
Judge: Mr Matt Smith (Alncroft)
Many thanks to the club for the invitation to judge at their show and for their hospitality. Thank you to my stewards, and the exhibitors for entering under me. I thoroughly enjoyed my day and was pleased with the quality present. Many of the classes were close decisions and coats played a big part in final standings. Whilst I didn’t find any dogs that I couldn’t span, having spent a lifetime around working terriers some of the bitches in particular were on the larger end of the scale for preference.
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Well balanced dog with a decent front and strong hindquarters. Good for length and narrow enough, good topline and well ribbed back with firm short loin. Coat coming in.
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.
Yearling - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
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.
Post Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
longer cast g/t, with kindly expression, lovely dark muzzle, plenty bone, narrow throughout, moved well.
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.
Post Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
another lovely dog, masculine head, good front and rear angulation, would prefer a better rib. Moved with a good length of stride.
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.
Post Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
A larger framed and longer cast g/t. Another with typical head and a softer expression, strong dark muzzle. Well off for bone, decent ribbing, narrow throughout and good rear angles. He moved well.
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.
Post Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Grand type, well made, strong headed male, broad skull dark eye and pigment, short muzzle another with great presence, slim body ribs well back standing on neat tight feet, I liked him a lot, two very handsome boys.
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.
Post Graduate - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
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
Post Graduate - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
The Terrier Club of South Wales Open Show
14th May 2023
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
I would like to start by thanking the Officers and Committee of The Terrier Club Of South Wales for asking me to judge such a well organised and supported show and the wonderful hospitality on the day. Secondly to the exhibitors for the wonderful support and entry on the day of 54 dogs.
I enjoyed having the chance to go over some real quality dogs on the day and in a couple of the classes the placings could easily of been reversed. My Best Of Breed youngster showed himself really well on the day and continued to do so through to the Best In Show line up where he secured the grand honours of being awarded Best In Show by BIS Judge Mark Ord.
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
2 Y/O red grizzle dog, really like this youngster for size and he is so sound to go over. Scores well with his strong head/big white teath and dark eye, holds a nice top line stacked and on the move with a good bend of stifle which gives him really sound movement. Pleased to award him Reserve Best Dog today.
The Scottish Kennel Club (May) Championship Show
21st May 2023
Judge: Mr Frank Kane (Hirontower)
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Almost 2 years old, free striding with good carriage and well angulated at both ends, flowing outline, good skull but could have a little more strength in front of the eyes, ready for a new coat, quality dog.
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
Post Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Good for size, with a strong, masculine head of good type, narrow body with level topline and good length of rib, thickest of coats and pelts although coat just going over, moved well with good length of stride, a bit down in pasterns.
Staffordshire & Birmingham Agricultural Society Open Show
31st May 2023
Judge: Marion Sargent (Tegwani)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Southern Counties Canine Association
2nd Jun 2023
Judge: Miss Felicity Freer (Felfree)
Post Graduate - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Three Counties Championship Dog Show
9th Jun 2023
Judge: Mrs Jane Roberts (Smalesmouth)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at Three Counties Championship Dog Show. My appointment was originally for 2020 but it was worth the wait to be able to judge at this lovely showground at the foot of the Malvern Hills. Many thanks indeed to my stewards Bill and Trish who kept everything moving ringside in an efficient and pleasant manner. My thanks go to all the exhibitors who brought their dogs under me. It was a real privilege and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. There were some close decisions and I would like to thank all those who accepted my decisions so sportingly.
Based on my entry I felt that the overall quality of the breed was good. Most were fit and I thought that fronts and heads had improved from the last time I judged. There were only a few that I was unable to span and a couple who had missing teeth and one that had a kinked tail. I was particularly pleased with my bitch line-up and I thought there were some very good quality exhibits who on another day could be ticket winners.
Post Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Lovely balanced G/T Masculine head with correct proportions. Keen eye and expression. Large teeth. Shapely dog under his thick double coat. I found him to have very good neck into narrow shoulders. Straight legs. Very nice length of body, spannable. Another who moved with drive round the ring, covering the ground well.
Class Critique
Close decision between first 3 in this class.
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.
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Good head with broad skull and a kind expression. Clean outline with his under carriage being gradual and not steep as one with a shorter length of body. Straight forelegs. Good length of body, easily spanned. Good topline maintained on the move. Good angulation both front and rear. Shown in full coat today which made him look heavier than he really was. Moved soundly.
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.
Post Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Unfortunately his coat had gone over so I had to ‘dig in’ to find the quality dog beneath. What I found was really pleasing so sure he will do well when presented in what I have observed to be a good coat on other occasions. The thick coat just made him appear stocky compared to the class winner. Liked his type, size and good movement so sure he will do well in the future.
Newport Agricultural Society (Shropshire) Open Show
8th Jul 2023
Judge: Alison Kenny-Marriot (Millingford)
Thank you to the Society for inviting me to judge at this lovely, friendly dog show. Thanks to the committee for all their hard work and to my friendly stewards who kept the ring moving at all times. Thanks also to the exhibitors who brought some quality dogs for me to judge and braved the threat of thunderstorms on the day! Border Terriers A quality entry
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Another super youngster which made me spoiled for choice. Similar remarks apply just lacking in coat today but will always be in the mix on another occasion, I’m sure.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
6th Aug 2023
Judge: Mr. Bob Wright (Totherend)
It was a real honour to judge my home club’s show and my thanks go to a great committee for the opportunity and the way they run the club with all hands to the wheel. Richard Wright and Sharon Pickering had my back and have my appreciation for a great day’s stewarding.
I was disappointed in the early dog classes where what initially looked like an impressive line-up failed to materialise once on the table or on the move. Movement was a weak spot for a surprisingly large number of exhibits, especially front movement. There were three poor mouths and one exhibit that couldn’t be spanned but lots of good pelts, coats and neat feet. However long tails are becoming more common and a true carrot tail is about as rare as hen’s teeth. I was fascinated by some handlers interpretation of a triangle, suffice to say it’s a good job it wasn’t a maths exam.
Once again there were only two CCs available which is a great shame when there are so many who warrant them. I can only sympathise with those who went home empty handed. It was most likely a reflection of the strength of the classes rather than their standing. The bitch classes were especially strong with at least six exhibits worthy of much more than I had available to offer. When it came to the line ups I was clearly torn and had to be really picky to get to a decision but in the end I was pleased with all the winners.
Whilst there is still much that can be done to improve some aspects of the breed there is a lot to be proud of with some really stunning exhibits out there.
Limit - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Class Critique
Strong class this and could have gone many ways
The Welsh Kennel Club Championship Show
19th Aug 2023
Judge: Jane Morton Shaw (Fehmarn)
I would like to thank the WKC committee for inviting me to judge at this lovely show. It was very well organised with a super friendly atmosphere.
Thank you to all the exhibitors for your entry & accepting my decisions so graciously.
I thoroughly enjoyed my day, but I have to apologise for the late start! I’m always super early for everything, and had arrived on the showground by 8am. Unfortunately my watch battery ran out at 8.20 and I was mortified when I realised it had stopped and to find out that the time was 9.35!!!
I was very pleased to see my BOB, BPIB & BVIB shortlisted in their groups, with Veteran going on to Group 3.
Limit - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
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.
Limit - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Richmond Championship Show
8th Sep 2023
Judge: Mr Tim Ball (Kaitak)
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
This 2 yr old grizzle is quite different to the winner but another who very much appealed. He pleased for size and outline with medium length of neck, level topline, super ribbing, strong loins and tail set and carried well. Head of correct proportions with moderate breadth to skull, excellent eye and ear and correct dentition. He stands well naturally in front and has a touch more rear angulation than the winner. Harsh jacket and nice thick pelt. Moving well all through but just preferred overall head and expression of 1.
The Southern Border Terrier Club Open Show
16th Sep 2023
Judge: Mr Robert Brewster (Stowthorney & Breckgreen)
I would like to thanks the officers and committee of The Southern Border Terrier Club for giving me the honour of judging their Open Show. I first signed the contract for the show in 2017, but due to Covid and the Lockdown I have only just fulfilled my judging appointment. Whist remembering those who are no longer with us due to the Covid Pandemic. I was happy with my entry and would like to also thank the exhibitors for entering under me and thank them all for taking my decisions, some of which were difficult, in a sportsmanlike way. I found most exhibits to be in good order, but I was quite worried that I found some younger exhibits with a build-up of scale on their teeth. This should be addressed as soon as possible. I was also delighted with a young exhibitor, attending her first show, on a whole handling her young dog so well whilst full of nerves and inexperience. We need to encourage these youngsters as they are the custodians of our breed
Limit - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
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.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
DCC
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
What a cracking young dog. The best of otter heads, strong and masculine without being overdone. Good front with correct length of upperarm into excellent lay of shoulder. Excelled in topline and tailset. Moved and showed perfectly never put a foot wrong. Pleased to award him C C and B.O B.
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.
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Quality grizzle, who pushed hard for top honours, just preferred the expression of the dcc rdcc but nothing more than that, matching them both in every other respect. Nice head with lovely skull and strong foreface. Well made throughout with correct shape ribs back to his firm loin and well made rear. Lovely forehand, straight forelegs and neat feet, he was in super coat with thick pelt and grand condition and moved well.
Class Critique
Some lovely dogs in this class.
Romsey & DCS Open Show
1st Oct 2023
Judge: Jason Hunt
Open /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Stroud & DCS Open Show
7th Oct 2023
Judge: Richard Morris (Lascoed)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
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.
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Unfortunate for this boy as he wouldn’t settle on the table which cost him, so much to like about him, very masculine head which is missing in the breed today, shown in a bomb proof jacket which would withstand any amount of weather, once I got my hands in there I could feel his ribs which were carried well back & not over sprung & a nice length of loin, good rear angulation which he put to good use.
Gloucester & DCS Open Show
18th Feb 2024
Judge: Jenny Miller (Feorlig)
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Cheltenham & District CS Open Show
25th Feb 2024
Judge: Guy Jeavons (Grandgables)
Open /
Reserve
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
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.
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle and tan with a broad flat skull, good strength in his muzzle with a dark eye and well placed ears. A little weak in pasterns, but has a straight front, a good length of neck into well placed shoulders, enough depth of rib and is narrow throughout. Good bend of stifle with hocks well let down and moves well.
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.
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Red male of good size. Neatest of feet. Tight good textured coat – would have liked more. Moved positively from well muscled quarters.
Oswestry & District Kennel Association Open Show
17th Mar 2024
Judge: Mr Kevin Yeates (Bluebabel)
I’d like to thank the committee for appointing me for this show. With 16 dogs entered and 2 absent I was very pleased with my above average entry for this show. All the dogs had good dentition, and coats generally good
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG4, Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Almost 3 year old grizzle dog. Masculine head, short strong muzzle with good dentition, neat ears, ribs narrow and carried well back. Spannable, moved effortlessly on neat feet. Nice carrot tail. A lovely balanced dog I was happy to award Best of Breed. He also went TG4.
Bridgewater & DCS Open Show
24th Mar 2024
Judge: Libby Tanton-Joy (Itsaso)
Thank you to the committee for inviting me to judge several breeds at their well-run open show. Also thank you to my stewards for organising the rings so smoothly. My thanks also go to those who entered under me on the day.
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle and tan male presented in good coat and fit condition. He had a typical otter head with broad skull, strong muzzle housing big teeth and correct bite. Good shoulder with straight front. Level topline and tail set finished off with a short tail. Narrow throughout he was easily spanned. Moved well.
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.
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
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.
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Quality dog who comes to hand well. Narrow throughout he has spannable narrow ribs carried well back to good loin. Neck of good length and nice top line and tail set. Shown to advantage in good order.
East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
20th Apr 2024
Judge: Mrs Elizabeth Barrett (Howthwaite)
Thank you to the committee of the East Anglia Border Terrier Club for the honour of inviting me to judge your Championship show and for your great hospitality on the day. It was hit-and-miss as to whether or not I would be judging inside or out, and I’m pleased that the committee took the decision to hold it outdoors. It is far nicer for the dogs to be outside, even with the biting wind, and we are not to forget that they are designed to be outside in that type of weather, which reiterates the importance of a good coat. I hope everyone at ringside managed to keep the chill away, myself having Cumbrian bloodlines, found it rather pleasant. Thank you to my stewards Tracey, Dave and Mike who worked tirelessly to keep the ring moving. My biggest thanks are to the exhibitors who gave me an excellent entry and took all my decisions in a sporting manner. I know it is always said there are too many good dogs for the number of cards and that was especially true of the limit and open classes. I was spoiled for choice in a number of classes and had to split hairs on a number of occasions. Dog’s are never static and can have good days and bad days just the same as us, and condition and coats can change dramatically. Some dogs were out of top coat or had no harshness to their coat on the day which cost them on this occasion. Repeating myself from my last judging appointment, I made mention that true movement isn’t necessarily conducive to good movement if no ground is covered at the same time, ideally of course we want both but I would rather see a dog with a good outline in profile than one very accurate that’s going nowhere. Good construction should be a given, I know not much mention is made to that in our breed standard, but to constitute soundness to follow a horse, the construction must be balanced and correct with no exaggeration. Thankfully, there were not many exaggerations on the day. One or two were big ribbed and not quite spannable, and surprisingly they were not necessarily the ones that looked up to size. Overall, I was very pleased with the quality of the dogs presented.
RDCC
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle and tan. Just right for size and workmanlike in appearance. He has a typical head and keen expression with a dark keen eye. Excellent neck and shoulders with good return of upper arm. Not too heavy in bone, small feet. Easily spanned and ribbed well back. He has a lovely topline and tailset. Racy hindquarters with well let down hocks. Shown in a good harsh top coat with good undercoat and pelt. He was true on the move coming and going and moved with a free and easy stride keeping his topline, which clinched this competitive class and the Reserve CC
Class Critique
An excellent class with several good dogs having to go without cards today.
West of England Ladies Kennel Society
26th Apr 2024
Judge: Mandy Holmes (Bimandi)
Many Thanks to WELKS for asking me to judge at their show, it was an honour, also thank you so much to everyone that entered under me, I had some great dogs to go over. Congratulation to all my winners. Thanks also go to my very competent stewards for keeping my ring running smoothly.
All the males were entire. Apart from 3 level bites all mouths were correct and teeth of good size. Temperaments were all sound except one or two that really didn’t like being in the noisy hall and were a little bit subdued. It’s hard to judge true movement on a slippery concrete floor and in some classes the placings could have changed if we had been outside on grass.
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Marlborough & DCS Premier Open Show
6th May 2024
Judge: Mrs Sue Spafford (Dassett)
Firstly, I would like to thank the organisers of the show for the warm welcome and hospitality. I had some lovely dogs to go over.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG3, Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle and tan dog, good masculine head, strong muzzle, well placed ears, spannable, with ribs carried well back. In good thick double coat today. Moved well around the ring with drive. Pleased to award Best of Breed. BoB
National Dog Show
12th May 2024
Judge: Mr Patrick Glover (USA)
I wanted to thank the committee for the honour of judging your show. I sincerely apologize for the delay of the critique due to ill health. Coming from another country it was especially grateful to have such excellent Stewards to help guide me. And I thank all the exhibitors that came to exhibit under me. It was a pleasure to see so many quality Borders, and have them in hand. I was very satisfied with my final lineup. I enjoyed the depth of type that you have in the UK. Part of that may be seeing Borders with a proper coat. Unfortunately, Borders in the USA are not shown in such coat anymore which I do not understand. I only saw two bad bites, and I see you are battling some of the same issues we are in the US, one being straight fronts. A good Border must have some prosternum to be constructed in a proper way where the legs are under the dog rather than in front of it. The second being is the loss of rib. Your standard states “ribs carried well back” Our standard states the same thing, only adding the word deep “deep ribs carried well back. Both proper fronts and rib are essential to a working terrier, and attention must be paid to both. Overall, I enjoyed going over so many good Borders and again I thank you for the opportunity
Limit - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
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.
Limit - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Bath Canine Society
26th May 2024
Judge: Mr Ian Higham (Comberdown)
I would like to thank Mr. Lee Cox and the officers and committee of Bath Canine Society for making my wife and I feel so welcome at their show. Also my two amazingly competent stewards Mark and Joyce who were just brilliant at their job.
I found nothing obviously untoward or concerning, apart from, surprisingly, a few too heavy ones, which cost placings. We need to remember functionality.
In general, overall, this was an entry of terrific in-depth quality. What an absolute privilege it was to go over them. Thank you all so much!
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
This dog has a lovely strong head with good dark keen eye and strong muzzle and good big teeth. He moves true from all angles. Full coat made him look big, but I could span him.
Class Critique
A great class of males. I was spoilt for choice.
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.
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
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.
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Another very good dog. Grizzle with lovely head, good rib and bodylength. Dense coat which was just going over, thick pelt. Moved with drive
Class Critique
Lovely class
The Southern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
9th Jun 2024
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Bailey (Grindelvald)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for asking me to judge their show, it was an honour. Also for making David and myself so welcomed and the enjoyable lunch. The quality of the Borders were pleasing to go over. Big thank you to my stewards Julie and Robert, keep the classes running smoothly all day. Finally thank you to all the exhibitors who braved the cold weather, it did stay dry and allowing me to go over their dogs. All the males were entire, as usual the coats were at various stages which cost some dogs higher placing. Some wide fronts let them down, large ears were a problem in some exhibits. I was delighted with all my winners such quality.
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Real working type terrier, otter shape head with keen expression, narrow throughout level topline, coat over its best but still harsh double coated, moved positively
Evesham & DCS Open Show
14th Jul 2024
Judge: Mrs Vanessa Cox (Pettipaws)
Reserve Best Of Breed
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Oswestry & District Kennel Association Open Show
21st Jul 2024
Judge: Mrs V Atkinson (Raedwulf)
Thank you for inviting me to judge at this friendly and well run show. It was a pleasure to go over some lovely dogs and to see my decisions taken sportingly.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG3, Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Masculine 3 year old dog with enough bone, unfortunately short of coat today. Well constructed with strength of head and muzzle, correct scissior bite housing large clean teeth. Good length of neck and nice lay back of shoulder, easy to span and strong loin with well muscled rear. Super tail set and plenty of drive, even without a worthy winner. BOB TG3
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.
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Grizzle and tan presented today in new tight coat just coming in. Pleasant in head but slightly lighter in eye than 1 but did not detract from his overall expression. He is very balanced in construction with plenty of breed type. Holds his profile on the move but could be more positive in rear movement today.
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 - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Welsh Kennel Club Championship Show
16th Aug 2024
Judge: Mr Stuart Plane
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
an appealing dog of good type, not quite as short coupled as the winner, quality type of head, well placed ears, his topline was level leading to a well set tail
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 - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
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.
Open - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Richmond Championship Show
7th Sep 2024
Judge: Mr Bob Blackley (Vaevictus)
Open - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Darlington Championship Show
13th Sep 2024
Judge: Mrs L Roberts
Open - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
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 .
DCC
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Reserve Best In Show
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
An understated dog which I have admired from the ringside and was not disappointed when I got my hands on him . He had a lovely head and expression and excellent dentition . His front was straight and narrow and he had a good layback of shoulder . level topline . good tailset and hind angulation . His movement was true coming and going and he moved around the ring with reach and drive . His dense hard coat finished the picture and I was delighted to award him the DCC
Class Critique
What a pleasure to judge this lovely class of dogs.
Birmingham & District Gundog & Terrier Club Open Show
5th Oct 2024
Judge: Irene Glen (Wilholme/Bessalone)
Open /
Third Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
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 - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
Placing Critique
Handsome grizzle and tan who I’ve long admired. Great classic Otter head and expression. Another of ideal size and easily spannable. Presented in full double coat giving a workmanlike appearance .He's balanced in outline with good length of body and ribs well back.
He looked a picture in full double coat - though it wasn’t as hard in texture as my winner today.
Showed himself off beautifully in such an excellent class. Like him a lot.
Midland Counties Canine Society
25th Oct 2024
Judge: Professor A S Milton (Baillieswells)
Open - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Cobstoneway Stand By Me JW
