Show Placings
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.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
A very immature g & t at just 6 months but is developing nicely and appeals for breed type. Sympathetically handled she has a lovely head shape and well placed ears. Carrying a good length of rib, she is narrow and has a good length of loin, with a well set short tail, crisp double coat and pelt. Moved with confidence for one so young.
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!
Best Puppy - Bitch
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
lovely baby who showed herself off as soon as she came into the ring. Excellent feminine head, eye and bite. Harsh jacket with thick pelt. Easily spanned. She moved really well for a baby. I will follow her career with interest.
Blackpool & District Canine Society
26th Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs Trak Fryer (Irton)
Thanks to the exhibitors for a lovely entry, much appreciated in these difficult times. Thanks also to my stewards who not only kept the ring moving well but proved very adept at fielding judging slips, ring cards and prize cards and miscellaneous other bits and pieces flying across the ring in a very blustery wind. I thought it would be better to judge outside, the wind did upset a few dogs and those with a lot of coat were truly blown. The Border is essentially a working terrier that should combine activity with gameness – I thought that worth repeating since some seem to have forgotten it! I managed to find good heads but in general they were not strong, the head and jaw is not a cosmetic addition but an essential part of the terrier’s make up. Feet and pelts were OK but very few could be regarded as really good, again they are an essential feature required for the work the dog was bred for. Coats were all over the place very few being presented in a good sharp deep coat, however most were acceptable.
Movement remains a problem, there were feet flicking out, plaiting in front, bouncing up and down or rocking on the front – all problems with shoulder construction. The best move with that lovely unfussy ground covering drive that is so typical of the breed.
I was surprised to find several exhibits with level bites, I know the standard allows for this but it is undesirable, particularly in young dogs.
Having said all that I did find a good number of excellent very typical dogs, Limit & Open classes in both sexes were excellent and there were some promising puppies coming along.
Best Puppy - Bitch
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
Could be stronger in head with a slightly heavy ear but she is just a baby, Well made through, nicely balanced with good quarters and strong loin, well set tail, coat on the blow but OK, moved confidently.
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.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
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.
Minor Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
Good for overall size with feminine head that still needs to mature. Nicely balanced, she is narrow throughout and easy to span. Well angulated both front and rear. Strong in loin and well-muscled. Moved well fore and aft, which won her the class and subsequently BPB.
Darlington Championship Dog Show
17th Sep 2022
Judge: Miss Tracey Peacock (Ragatam)
Firstly, I would like to thank the committee for their invitation to judge Border Terriers. Huge thanks to my two efficient stewards Laura Jordan-Smith and Julie North who kept me on track and finally the exhibitors for a super entry. Movement in general was better at the rear than in front as there were too many swinging fronts, wide movement and toeing in. There was a good selection of quality dogs and bitches for me to choose from and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Puppy - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
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.
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
10mths Well balanced, good head, short strong feminine muzzle, nice size, narrow throughout,, well laid shoulders, good rear hindquarters, in harsh double coat, moved with drive. Presented in fit show condition, lots to like about her BPB.
The Scottish Kennel Club (October Show)
1st Oct 2022
Judge: Mr G Richardson
I would like to thank the Scottish Kennel Club for offering me the chance to award C.Cs for the first time, thanks to their hospitality i had a very enjoyable experience . Thank you to the exhibitors for accepting my decisions in a sporting manner . Also thank you to my very efficient Steward on the day Judy Carr , with her experience she kept the day flowing excellently. Overall I was very pleased with the dogs placed on the day, generally there was a better quality bitch entry compared to dogs. Movement and wide fronts was an issue with some exhibits but generally ok. I was happy to see my B.P, take Puppy Group 2 and B.S.B.I.B. take S.B. Group 1 .
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
Feminine puppy. Good strength of jaw with correct scissor bite. Well placed neat ears. Ribs carried well back. Harsh thick double coat. Good tail set which was carried well as she moved well around the ring .
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.
Puppy - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
Nice head with well placed ears good bite, she has good length of rib and is narrow throughout , level top line with good tail set shown in correct double coat, a nicely balanced bitch which moves out well when she settles.
Class Critique
A lovely class of promising puppies
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
8th Oct 2022
Judge: Mr R Brewster (Stowthorney)
I would like to thank the officers and committee of the Northern Border terrier club,
for inviting me to judge at this show. I considered this a great honour and privilege.
Many thanks to my two ring stewards Andrea Dixon and Mark Atkinson for keeping the ring running smoothly. I am immensely grateful to all of the exhibitors for a supper entry and the chance to go over so many lovely dogs and for taking my decisions with good sportsmanship. Some decisions could have been different on another day
In general, most were in tip top condition a few were a bit over weight.
Dentition was mostly good. I was happy on the whole with temperaments.
Best Puppy - Bitch
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Reserve Best Puppy
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
This grizzle and tan puppy grabbed my eye as she entered the ring. She has a lovely feminine head with dark eyes. With little stop and neat ears held in close to the cheek. Correct scissor bite. Super angulation throughout, with pleasing shoulders and a good length of rib. Not too deep in brisket. Nice tail set and top line. Moved with ease pleased to award RBPIS
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
15th Oct 2022
Judge: Ms Julie Green (Breckgreen/Stowthorney)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for asking me to judge The Border Terrier Club Open Show at Low Hesket and big thank you for my lovely judge’s gifts. I would also like to thank my two stewards for the day, Judy Carr and Marina Flemming for doing a sterling job and keeping the ring running smoothly through the day. Thanks must go to the exhibitors for their fantastic entry and for excepting my decisions on the day. I had a lovely entry of borders who on whole were of good quality.
Best Puppy - Bitch
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Best Puppy
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
This girl was a real showgirl and should have a really bright future. Loved her size. She has a lovely head with correct bite. Good reach of neck into correct shoulders. Lovely top line and tail set which she held on the move. This girl was narrow throughout and spanned with ease. In good harsh double jacket with excellent pelt. Moved with ease. Pleased to award her Best Puppy Bitch then later Best Puppy in Show.
Midland Counties Canine Society
30th Oct 2022
Judge: Mr Alan Small (Bethane)
I thoroughly enjoyed my day judging the Border Teriers at Midland Counties Champ. Show. Thanks to the Officers & Committee for the invite & especially to the exhibitors who presented me with such a wonderful entry of 230 from 174 dogs. It was a quality entry overall and I was particuarly impressed with the quality of the young stock which augers well for the breed. There's no Puppy or Veteran Groups at the Midland, which is a pity because I feel both would have done well. Must not be too greedy, as it was nice to see my BOB, Ch. Otterbobs Tolson top the Terrier Group and my Best Special Beginners, Thistlemead Sundance, take her respective Group as well.....Well done.
Special thanks to my Ring Stewards, Penny Lloyd & Gavin Argyle, who kept things moving along nicely. Border Terriers are dear to my heart having owned & bred them over a number of years. Thanks again for such a wonderful entry, I enjoyed your dogs and a nice atmosphere prevailed.
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
some bitch! Good all round & of nice type & balance, in lovely grizzle coat, pleasing otter head, straight front, ribs bback & spanable, well set carroty tail & strong quarters, moved & handled well to win a strong puppy class.
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.”
Puppy - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
Just short of 12 months. Nice sized grizzle with feminine head which could develop further. Lovely dark eye.Well constructed,good double coat, plenty of pelt, neat feet.Excelled in movement in her class but unsettled by change of handler in the challenge.
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Members Limited Show
29th Jan 2023
Judge: Andrea Dixon (Otterpaws)
Thank you to the club for the invitation to judge and the exhibitors for their entries. It was a delight to judge my first Breed Club show. Thank you to the committee for a well-run show and my tasty lunch. Thank you to my steward Pete Appleby.
Reserve Best Bitch
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
A well-balanced bitch that caught my eye as soon as he entered the ring. Excellent harsh double coat and small tight feet. She moved very well fore and aft. Reserve best bitch
Crufts
11th Mar 2023
Judge: Mr David Shields (Wilholme)
To judge Border Terriers at Crufts was both a privilege and a honour and I must thank the Crufts Committee for the appointment to judge the breed at what is the greatest dog show in the world. A big thanks go to the exhibitors from both home and abroad for such a super entry which made for a great days judging with quality in depth in many of the classes. Finally I must thank my two stewards who kept things moving in the ring to allow me to finish judging in good time.
On the day I was looking for a workmanlike dog as the standard asks for but one also must remember that in the show ring you also need that attitude and showmanship to complete the picture. I felt my BOB put up a great show in the Group and was so pleased to see him take Group 2 in a quality line up.
Junior - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
Another very promising young lady of good size and type. Balanced head of good size, pleasing strength of muzzle, lovely dark eye and an alert expression. Stands on the best of legs and feet, good body shape and a strong level topline along with a pleasing tailset and carriage. Well developed hindquarters with that racy appearance. Moved well on a good stride.
Whitehaven & District Canine Association Open Show
19th Mar 2023
Judge: Miss Katie Hamilton (Cromlechs)
Best Bitch
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
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.
Junior - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
living up to her name! g/t in full coat, lovely feminine head with the keenest expression, up for anything! Well balanced, moved like a rocket, on neat feet.
The Scottish Kennel Club (May) Championship Show
21st May 2023
Judge: Mr Frank Kane (Hirontower)
Junior - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Bath Canine Society
29th May 2023
Judge: Mrs Anne Gregory (Remony)
My thanks to the officers and committee of Bath Canine Society for inviting me to judge today. A big thank you to my two very efficient stewards, Mark and Joyce, who kept the ring running smoothly and efficiently. Thank you also to the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to go over their dogs, it is always a privilege to do so. I was disappointed not to have been able to stay and watch the groups but circumstances outwith my control prevented me from doing so.
While there were plenty of good ‘otter’ heads in evidence, I found some heads lacking in muzzle strength and some with stops that were too deep, neither of which is desirable. Some exhibits were too heavy in frame and consequently didn’t come to hand easily. Some dogs had weak pasterns and feet that could have been tighter. Coats were at varying stages, with some in their underclothes, some just going over the top, and in some cases, this was a deciding factor. Overall, movement was good with correct tracking, plenty of drive off well angulated hindquarters and good length of stride. Some dogs could have benefited from more ring training and, at times, baiting on the table was excessive. A dog scrambling to get to bait makes it more difficult to assess. On a positive note, I did have some quality dogs to go over and was well pleased with my winners and final line-up. I was also pleased to see my Best Veteran win the Terrier Veteran Group, my Best Puppy shortlisted in the Terrier Puppy Group and my Best Special Beginners, Special Beginners Terrier Group 4
Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
Good for size and breed type, feminine head with flat skull, muzzle could be a mite stronger but this should improve as she matures, good feet, straight front legs, well placed shoulders, narrow body, level topline, well set on tail, strong, well muscled rear, sporting an excellent double coat, movement was sound and accurate.
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.
BCC
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Graduate - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
A lovely G/T bitch. Full of quality. She was in top form on the day and never stopped showing. She is excellent for size, balance and construction. Lovely feminine head with dark eye and the keenest of expression. Neat ears. Good reach of neck into narrow shoulders. Very best of legs and feet. Narrow all through with ribs carried well back. Easily spanned. Excellent top line and tail set with correct shaped tail. She was presented in excellent jacket with harsh top coat and thick pelt. She moved with excellent reach and drive. Pleased to award her the BCC.
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.
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
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.
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
Deep double coated youngster with good pelt and pleasing feminine head with small neat ears and dark eye, short muzzle without exaggeration. Liked her shoulder placement, easily spanned she moved with drive and purpose. Her good bodylines were complemented with a well set carrot like tail giving a pleasing outline.
Blackpool & District Canine Society
25th Jun 2023
Judge: Mrs Jayne Gillam (Orenberg)
Many thanks to the officers and committee for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at Blackpool & District Canine Society Championship show. Grateful thanks must go to my very efficient steward Gisela Duran who did an excellent job in making sure everything ran like clockwork. Finally thank you to the exhibitors for giving me such an excellent entry of 142 dogs making 183 entries, the largest entry across all breeds on the day. It really was a privilege to go over such a large entry of dogs and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
The size of dogs has always been a perennial topic, but I was pleased to say overall, many of the dogs were of correct size on this occasion, with very few oversized dogs and only the odd one or two I couldn’t span. Bites were good and only an odd one with teeth out of line, although a few had broken teeth, quite a few had dirty teeth and some had small teeth which is something I really don’t like to see on, essentially a working terrier. It was good to find some really lovely tails, with not too many long thin, spindly tails we have seen in the past, although I was surprised to find four kinked tails in the entry.
Overall I thought it was a good entry, I found some quality exhibits and I was very pleased with my winners, and in particular will watch the progress of my puppy and junior placings with interest.
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
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.
Yearling - Bitch /
Reserve
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
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 - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
Lovely sized bitch in full coat. Pretty feminine head. Good length of rib, nice angulation front & rear and good bend of stifle. Carroty well set on tail. Correct bite & pelt. Easily spanned. Moved like a dream.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
7th Oct 2023
Judge: Mrs Norma Ellis (Normbar)
Thank you to the Committee for organising such a well run show. The quality of the the dogs was very good, making my decisions more difficult in a good way. Nice atmosphere plus friendly sportsmanship prevailed.
Open - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
11th Nov 2023
Judge: Mr Mark Lowry (Ravenside)
Firstly, I would like to thank everyone for a lovely entry and also to the Scottish BTC for this opportunity. Special thanks go to my two stewards for the day who kept everything running smoothly and for their good company. Although the lighting in the hall isn’t the best, it was adequate and the large square ring was perfect for watching movement, something I feel is very important in a border terrier. On that note I found my main winners to excel in this department. I was pleased to judge some strong puppy classes and also some strong adult classes
Yearling - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
Grizzle bitch presented in top order, balanced throughout. Nice feminine head with a keen dark eye. Narrow front with tight feet, thick loose pelt, well angulated. Another with a great topline and short carrot tail. Moved best of all around the ring, easily spanned
Penrith & DCS Open Show
17th Dec 2023
Judge: Siân McKay (Redesholt)
My thanks go to both the Penrith & District Canine Society and the Border Terrier Club for considering me to judge a super entry of some quality dogs. The show committee were most welcoming and kept the judges well fed and watered. My stewards – Sue, Jane and Katrina keeping the proceedings flowing smoothly- my thanks.
All dogs presented today were of sound temperaments, all found to be spannable and, as to be expected, various stages of coat with some excellent coats and pelts on display. Movement overall was most pleasing; with some excellent examples of strong reach and drive making for fluid balanced movement. In some classes I found myself splitting hairs due to the quality of the exhibits. Again, my one plea is for clean teeth!
Best Bitch
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
Two-year-old grizzle and tan bitch that caught my eye as soon as she entered the ring with her determined, powerful, balanced stride, that looked ready for a day’s work as well as being a showgirl. Top-notch head with dark eyes and keen alert gaze with a well-proportioned head and big teeth. Well laid back shoulders on straight well boned legs, and narrow throughout; therefore, easily spanned with a level topline good tail set and thick carroty tail. Correct outline and good rear angulation with well let down hocks and strong second thigh. Super correct jacket and pelt. Best mover of the day. Pleased to award her Best of Breed and she went on to Terrier Group 2.
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 - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
Well balanced girl who moved true both ways, narrow and racy, neat feet liked her head and expression, lovely texture to coat and plenty of ticking
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!
RBCC
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
G & T. A little smaller in size than first and of good proportions. She is good for bone and moves well coming and going, and she presents a beautiful profile picture. Lovely feminine head with good muzzle, teeth and bite. Correct harsh coat. Outgoing and enjoying her day. Reserve Bitch CC
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Open Show
2nd Jun 2024
Judge: Dr Margaret Armstrong (Ploughdown)
Thank you to the officers and committee of the Scottish Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their June 2024 Breed Club Open Show. The day was marked by very good weather conditions: a mixture of sunny spells, brisk breezes and cloud. Just right for the dogs. The dreaded rain kept at bay so the Gods smiled down on us. What a super venue to hold a show. There was a large indoor hall if needed. However, given the clement conditions, we were outside for judging on a large paved area surrounded by raised grass banks that afforded for spectators a good view of events. The welcome from officers and exhibitors alike was warm and hospitable and I’d like to thank exhibitors for the super entry I had and for their good grace in accepting their placings. There was a great sense of collegiality among members and good humour was in plentiful supply. The catering was second to none; the poached salmon salad at lunch was super. And I was sent on my way with enough food to see me back over the sea to Northern Ireland. Finally I’d like to thank my two stewards on the day: Kath Lothian and Pete Appleby. They were welcoming and fulfilled their duties with quiet good humour.
Reserve Best Bitch
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Open - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
I have often seen this bitch from the ringside so it was good to have the opportunity to go over her. Shows a good outline in her harsh abundant double coat. Deep pelt. Straight, true front, with well boned legs and strong pasterns above small, tight paws. Fair length of body with rib carried well back and a strong loin. Very good rear angulation and tail set. Lovely thick, short tail carried confidently above her back. Moved out very well coming and going and showed drive in profile. Feminine head, showing correct balance and proportion. Lovely dark eye and very pleasing expression. Scissor bite. Reserve Best Bitch in Show.
Border Union Agricultural Society
16th Jun 2024
Judge: Mr. David Matthews (Tojamatt)
My thanks to the Society for the invitation to Judge one of my favourite shows, it didn’t all go to plan with the weather playing its part. I would like to thank all the exhibitors for going along with my decision to stay outside despite the weather, and my special thanks to stewards Judy Carr and Audrey Coltart for braving the weather also. Also my thanks to Euan for posting my judging book and critique notes and to whomever handed it in.
Sorry for delay, holidays and work have played their part. I had some lovely dogs to go over and thank you all for bringing them.
Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
Grizzle bitch of a good size pleasing head good expression, narrow straight front and seamless transition from neck to shoulder, good rib and firm in loin with good rear angulation giving plenty of drive, exactly what you’ve come to expect from this kennel, she has an excellent coat and pelt and is easily spanned, lots to like about her.
Blackpool & District Canine Society
23rd Jun 2024
Judge: Mrs Beverley Barber (Alcumlow)
Thank you to all of you who entered your dogs for me to judge. I really enjoyed my day and having the privilege of judging your dogs. The weather was kind and our ring was good. I had excellent stewards and I thank them for their hard work.
Limit - Bitch /
First Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
Stood out in this class. Pleasing to go over everything where it should be without exaggeration. Liked her head proportions and expression. Very narrow throughout. Good coat and pelt. Pushed hard in the challenge.
Boston & District Canine Society
5th Jul 2024
Judge: Julie Green (Breckgreen & Stowthorney)
I would like to thanks the officers and committee of Boston and District Canine society for inviting me to give my first set of tickets in Border Terriers. It was such a well-run show and in such a lovely setting. I would also like to thank the exhibitors who entered under me. Thanks also to my two stewards who kept the ring moving for me on the day.
All in all, I was happy with my entry. I found all males to be entire and no kinked tails on the day. A couple of mouths that were not quite correct.
Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
Another lovely girl of nice size. Shown in great condition. Lovely otter head with a keen expression. Nice length of neck into correct shoulders. Correct topline and tail set which she held on the move. Stood on neat feet with good pads. Moved out with reach and drive.
The Midland Border Terrier Club 40th Anniversary Championship Show
4th Aug 2024
Judge: Mrs Jill Stevens (Cobstoneway)
I would like to thank the officers and committee of the club for inviting me to judge this 40th Anniversary show, and for the hospitality on the day. Thank you also to the hardworking stewards, it was a long and very busy day. Most of all, thank you to the exhibitors for giving me such a fabulous entry. I appreciated each and every exhibit, and had the privilege of going over so many quality dogs that difficult decisions had to be made and many lovely dogs went cardless. Foremost, I see the Border Terrier as ‘essentially a working terrier’ and was therefore looking for construction that would render this possible. A few exhibits were too big, too wide or too deep in brisket which might prevent them from going to ground, or even cause them to get stuck. A few had very thin skin – skin must be thick. Most bites were good, just a few with teeth out of line or missing. Coats come and go, so were understandably at different stages. However, on a working terrier a good hard coat does complete the picture. Good movement and a strong, even, economical gait comes from soundness of construction and the muscle tone of a well exercised dog. Therefore I looked for good layback of shoulder and the correct length and angle of upper arm to give a good reach in front, a strong loin, good bend of stifle and well angulated, well muscled hindquarters to give matching drive from the rear.
Limit - Bitch /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
The Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
28th Sep 2024
Judge: Mrs Anne Heathcote (Saxheath)
Mid Limit - Bitch /
Third Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
12th Oct 2024
Judge: Mrs. V. Mann (Valger)
I would like to thank The Committee for their invitation to judge their Open Show. I thoroughly enjoyed my day. Thank you to my very efficient Stewards Mark & Julie for keeping everything on track & The Club for their hospitality & splendid gift.
Open - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
2yr old grizzle. Another very nice bitch with a lovely feminine head. Good reach of neck. Well laid shoulders & return of upper arm. Narrow all through her ribs reach well back to a short firm loin. Not too deep she was easily spanned with a thick loose pelt. Presented in good double coat with a harsh texture. Move well.
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
9th Nov 2024
Judge: Mr A Horner (Stineval)
I would like to thank SCBTC and committee for the privilege of judging this years Championship show and thank my very capable steward Euan Castell for keeping the ring flowing and the exhibitors for their lovely entry. There were some really nice dogs for me to go over. But I must say that looking at them in general heads are starting to stray away from that of the border terrier, the other thing that I think needs addressing is the general cleanliness of their exhibits. I found three suspect mouths and two kinked tails . thank you one and all for an enjoyable day,
Limit - Bitch /
Second Place
Name at show: Howthwaite Gaan Divilish
Placing Critique
G/tan Good double coat pelt a pleasing feminine head with small neat ears and dark eye, short muzzle without exaggeration. Well laid shoulder ,easily spanned and moved well
