Show Placings
National Terrier
4th Apr 2015
Judge: Mr W Shorthose (Cundytyke)
Overall, I felt there was reasonable quality in those forward. Some exhibitors continue to have their dogs underfed and/or carrying little muscle, both to the detriment of a terrier expected to put in a day’s work. There were a number of untypical heads – lacking width to the skull and strength to the muzzle. Please keep in mind the shape of an otter’s skull.
I was very pleased with my top winners and extend my thanks to all the exhibitors.
Minor Puppy - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
18th Apr 2015
Judge: Mr. J. Todd (Roxess)
I would like to express my thanks to the officers and committee of The Northern Border Terrier club for the invitation to judge my first Breed Club show and also acknowledge the help and assistance in the ring by my stewards Ann Maltby and Scott Cranson.
I thoroughly enjoyed my day and would like to thank the exhibitors for providing me with the opportunity to go over so many quality dogs.
I found the majority to be in good fit condition and in good coat. There was a variation in head type but most fit the standard in my interpretation.
Mouths were generally good with only a couple with an acceptable level bite. In some presentation could have been better with a few having untidy feet. I was impressed with both line ups and some decisions were very close.
Minor Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
7 and half months grizzle dog with a good strong head with depth of muzzle and big teeth and a keen eye. Good layback of shoulder, thick pelt and neat tidy feet. Not as settled on the move as 1st.
Maiden - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
West of England Ladies' Kennel Society
25th Apr 2015
Judge: Mrs Su Williams (Hollybridge)
I would like to thank the exhibitors for super entry, it was an honour to go over so many excellent quality border terriers . I had some close decisions in many classes and some quality dogs had to go cardless. Overall I was impressed with the standard of both dogs/bitches and with the condition of them. Almost all were in fit condition with muscle tone,spanning wasn't an issue I'm pleased to say. Which means the breed is in a good way.. Mouths too on the whole were correct with many having good sized and clean teeth. .While coats are of course transient, texture was very good and the vast majority had good thick and loose pelts.
Last but not least Huge Thanks must go to my very capable & experienced Stewards who made my day so much easier.
Best Puppy
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Eye catching 8mth old Red Grizzle ,What a super head and keen expression this young boy has, lovely dark eye & good ear placement. Good topline,ribs & shoulders.A little short of coat today but super thick loose pelt. He covered the ground well with drive, he has true movement when he settles & he did play his handler up a tad but that is what puppies do. He is one I will watch for in the future. Best Dog puppy and BPIB
The Joint Border Terrier Clubs' Championship Show
3rd May 2015
Judge: Miss Julie Price (Oxcroft)
I would like to thank the Midland Border Terrier Club committee for the opportunity to judge this year’s Joint club show. Many thanks to my two ring stewards Bob and Liz Wright for the smooth running of the ring and the cups of coffee. It was an experience to go over so many dogs of different types; this made my job difficult at times, as each one had different attributes to the next. A few classes I found very hard to decide who my winners would be for this reason. Is the breed getting better or worse? I do not think I am the first to mention that there are too many foreign heads and plain faces with no expression. The breed standard states “a head like that of an otter” and “essentially a working terrier”. Confirmation and movement, I think has improved a little, but the heads and strength of the dogs has declined. When I looked at some of the dogs, I liked them but then had to remind myself that they where dogs not bitches. Thank you to all exhibitors for letting me go over your dogs and the gracious way most of you accepted my decisions.
Minor Puppy - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Scottish Kennel Club
16th May 2015
Judge: Mr Paul Wilkinson
Minor Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
strong headed dog, good outline, nice legs & feet, racy lines, moved well
Northumberland County Show
25th May 2015
Judge: Mrs Tina Jones (Otterholme)
My thanks to the committee for inviting the invitation to judge at this friendly and well run show.
My thanks to the exhibitors for showing their dogs under me and the sporting manner they accepted my placings on the day
To be judging in the County where the Border Terrier originated from felt quite special, the landscape certainly gives you an appreciation of the environment that the breed was built to work in.
I was pleased to find the majority of exhibits, presented in the correct tweedy jackets, which I’m sure they appreciated being in , with the inclement weather we experienced on the day.
I found most exhibits to be of correct size and with typical heads, on the flip side I found some exhibits quite heavy in the front giving a somewhat ‘beefy’ appearance and also some round eyes giving a rather untypical expression.
I felt that my winners fitted the criteria of essentially a working terrier.
Puppy /
Second Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
another decent puppy, lovely flat skull, strong muzzle, built on the right lines, shown in good jacket, easily spannable, moved out well.
Three Counties Agricultural Society
4th Jun 2015
Judge: Mr Brian Baxter
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
good headed youngster, clean teeth, straight front, well padded feet, in harsh coat as always from this kennel. Just needs to tighten up on front movement
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Open Show
7th Jun 2015
Judge: Mrs Ann Maltby (Pherjan)
I would like to thank the committee of the Scottish Border Terrier Club for the invitation to judge the show. Thanks also to my very able steward Joyce Orr and to the ladies in the kitchen for the excellent lunch. There were no bad mouths and all the males were entire. Coats were at various stages of growth on some exhibits but my principal winners had good double coats.
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Grizzle dog strong head and broad muzzle,correct dentition, keen expression and attentive to handler. Good lay-back of shoulder into level topline and good tailset. .Nice bone and neat feet. Moved ok.
Novice - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Border Union Agricultural Society
20th Jun 2015
Judge: Mrs Nancy Hogg (Raeburnfoot)
I thoroughly enjoyed my days judging at Border Union showground. Such a pleasant show. Many thanks go to my two very able stewards. They had the ring (& me) running like clockwork. Thanks also to the exhibitors who entered under me. Had some lovely dogs to go over & some hard decisions to make. Coats were probably the best I have seen for some time. Thick pelts, too, were much in evidence. Mouths were good. Fronts continue to be a problem & movement letting some otherwise promising dogs down.
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
excels in head. Short, strong muzzle, large teeth. Narrow all through. Well set on carrot tail. Sound mover. Very nice pup
Blackpool & District Canine Society
26th Jun 2015
Judge: Mr. Ian Higham (Comberdown)
I had been looking forward immensely to judging my first UK championship show. I sincerely thank the Blackpool and District Canine Society for the invite and also thank my two friendly, competent and helpful stewards, Mandy and Robert Geary for keeping everything right.
I would also give my deepest gratitude to those who exhibited under me for trusting my knowledge of the breed and my integrity to judge without fear or favour and further thank them for following my lead to stay in the outside ring through the numerous showers that were on and off all day. I feel privileged that you brought your dogs to me for my opinion.
As usual I was looking for Borders that had all the good breed type points as laid out in our standard, combined with correct physical construction to be able to cover the ground well.
I had no dirty or smelly dogs and only two or three of them could have done with having their teeth brushed so I can commend you all for that. I had only one dog that was slightly undershot and I found no tail deformities at all, which is excellent.
I found a variety of movement problems. But it has to be said that in general, movement seemed to have improved since I last judged the breed. I noticed a few more Borders with lighter colouring to their noses since I last judged, but, as instructed by our standard, I treated this as not a serious fault.
As often heard said, the term “on the day” always applies. I had to give my awards to the dogs that stood out on this day. So for those who may be a little disappointed, remember that on another occasion your dog could well have a better coat stage, move a little more positively or be more “on its toes.” Do not be disheartened and enjoy your showing and your dogs!
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Strong puppy dog of nine months. He has a very nice head, dark eye and correct ear. Big teeth with correct bite. Very good coat. He moved very well both ways. Looks impressive in profile with a level topline and he has a well set on tail which he carries just right. BEST PUPPY DOG.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
18th Jul 2015
Judge: Mrs Hilary Gilpin (Otterbobs)
Thank you to the officers, committee and members for voting for me to judge their Championship show 2015.
My stewards were just perfect, even the couple of birds flying around enjoyed the day.
As you know it's all too easy to judge from the ringside but when you are in the ring judging dogs of varying sizes, heads, coats etc, I felt I did the best I could with the exhibits shown.
All dogs were entire, mouths were correct and teeth were of good size and clean apart from one level bite which is acceptable.
Movement needs to be improved front and rear, muscle tone was lacking in quite a few, presentation on some was dreadful, two dogs needed feeding up, but the main winners were of good standing.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Best Puppy
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
very slim and fit pup, liked his face expression with a short strong muzzle, ears close to cheeks, ribs well back, naturally shown with a harsh coat, Best Puppy in Show.
Leeds Championship Show
26th Jul 2015
Judge: Mrs Laura Illingworth (Thorneyhurst)
Thanks to all the exhibitors for bringing such a quality entry, my two stewards for keeping things running smoothly and the rain for holding off till the near the end. I found the dogs in general to be fit with only a few exhibits Under weight I had some close decisions in quite a few classes especially the early bitch classes Mouths on the whole were correct with many having large clean teeth, coats were good and many had good thick loose pelts, movement was varied, temperaments were excellent and most were unperturbed by the noise from our adjoining ring
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
10 months, Similar type to first, liked his dark eye, harsh coat and neat feet
Paignton & District Fanciers’ Association Championship Show
1st Aug 2015
Judge: Miss Diane Swales (Grabbist)
My thanks to the Secretary and Committee for inviting me to judge at this most enjoyable show and to my two extremely efficient stewards, Felicity Snook and Lady Elain Macdonald, who kept the ring flowing smoothly. I am grateful to the exhibitors for a good entry including some very nice Borders and some promising youngsters. Overall mouths were good with strong, clean teeth and correct bites except for one overshot. Skins were an improvement on my last judging appointment, the majority being thick and loose but I do not like the tendency to strip coats out leaving little evidence of a harsh, dense coat. Remembering that a Border is 'essentially a working Terrier' it concerns me that there are a number being shown that really do not measure up to that description both in jacket and the lack of drive and ability to cover the ground when moving. These comments do not apply to my winners and I was so pleased to find many that really measure up to most points in the standard.
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Very like first, but did not settle quite so well. On another day these two could change places and I shall follow their future showing careers. Interested to see that they are by my BOB & Best Veteran respectively.
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
2nd Aug 2015
Judge: Mrs Jayne Gillam & Mr Mick Rushby
*Dogs*
What a pleasure it was to be invited to judge the males at the Midland BTC Championship show on 2nd August 2015, and thanks to the exhibitors for giving me such a good entry of males to go over. Thanks must also go to my stewards Chris Wallace and Margaret Davies who did a great job, making sure everything ran smoothly. It was interesting to be judging alongside my Co-judge Mick Rushby who I felt has similar views to how I interpret the Breed Standard and when it came to choosing Best of Breed, I appreciated the good qualities of his bitch CC winner and after a thorough deliberation we jointly decided that my Dog CC winner had the edge, and awarded him Best of Breed. Although I didn’t judge the bitches, from the ringside they did look a much more even entry than the males, which were quite mixed, but I was very happy with my main winners with several males who I felt were champion standard, my eventual CC winner stood away from the rest but I had a few contenders for the Reserve CC whom I really liked. No matter what time of year I judge there is always a percentage of exhibits out of coat, I am not normally too hung up on that, as coat is a transient thing and if there is evidence of a harsh coat and thick pelt, movement is good and the dog is well constructed I don’t penalize them too much, but when you get a dog before you with good construction, good movement and a fabulous coat, they really have the edge and stand out. Having said that and not wanting to sound as old as Methuselah, I really feel the correct Border coat is in decline, you rarely find the really good, harsh, dense wiry coats and pelts you did in the past, and is an important element to give the breed, type and is a requirement in the Breed Standard. The fashion for several years has been to show dogs with little coat, with all the undercoat scraped out to reveal a sleek outline. Thankfully not all exhibitors do this, and it was good to see some with decent coats, but judging by some of the poor toplines, and profiles on Sunday, I really think exhibitors should be thinking of leaving some undercoat in, and keep a good depth of coat, as it creates a more finished, Border Terrier look, rather than a thin skinned whippet look. Ultimately good coats and pelts need to be bred for. When I am judging, I tend to look at the overall dog, I never pick out one thing and allow it to seduce me into thinking it’s a good Border Terrier, the whole dog has to be balanced and fit for function, display good breed type and have the ability to follow a horse, moving with economy with long low strides. I don’t go in for extremes or exaggerations either, or a dog which looks like a caricature of a Border Terrier, because the breed standard doesn’t allow for that. I do like ring presence, clean dogs with good presentation and showmanship, a working dog can still have all that and it is a show after all, but it has to be a good Border Terrier first and foremost.
Puppy - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Presented in full coat just past its best, attractive youngster good breed type with pleasing head and expression, neat ears, I liked him, took time to settle on the move, and not quite the front assembly of one and two. Could do with a bit more body condition too.
Scottish Kennel Club
30th Aug 2015
Judge: Mrs E Cuthbertson (Ashbrae)
My thanks to the society for my appointment & their hospitality, & to the exhibitors & my steward Bob Potts. Quite a mixed entry today of type & size with some being on the lean side & others rather overweight! I was surprised to find a couple totally oversized & therefore they paid the penalty. The over treating dogs I think is getting worse in the ring & on the table. Trying to assess a dog when it is fidgeting around looking for food is not satisfactory. Surely a dog can stand for a minute while being examined without having to be fed handfuls of food. The standard calls for a harsh & dense coat & the skin must be thick, many today were very short of coat & quite a number with thin pelts. A good coat is essential which seems to being overlooked in the breed today. The breed standard leans towards moderation not exaggeration & I hope this is maintained with the emphasis being on ‘essentially a working terrier’ & not ‘essentially a show terrier’.
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
another nice pup typical throughout. Nice head & eye, close to one but sadly short of coat today
Darlington
18th Sep 2015
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Curtis (Matamba)
Many thanks go to the exhibitors today for their support as terrier day at Darlington Ch Show is always on a Friday and this can be difficult for some coming on a working day.
Thanks go to my two good friends Alf and Carol Wood who were my stewards today and kept everyone informed class by class, keeping everything running smoothly.
Junior - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
The Yorkshire, Lancs & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
26th Sep 2015
Judge: Mrs Kathy Wilkinson (Otterkin)
What a privilege to be invited by the Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire Border Terrier Club to judge their Diamond Jubilee Championship show, marking 60 years since the Club was first incorporated. The event was tinged with sadness that their long time Secretary, Mrs Cynthia Knight, could not be here to witness this special occasion. A minutes silence in her memory was called at the beginning of the show. I like to think she would have been looking down on the Club and the show with satisfaction with the way her team have continued to run the Club, always remembering the great influence and impact she and her husband Gordon ("Tag") had on their Club. Also being remembered at the show, were recent sad losses to the breed of Eva Heslop and Kathy Fell and to terriers in general, the redoubtable Maureen Micklethwaite.
Congratulations to the Acting Secretary, Tina and her husband and Chairman, Kevin Green and the rest of the team on a well run show and thanks to my ring stewards, Graham Richardson and Sharon Pickering for keeping everything running smoothly.
A show is not held for the benefit of a judge or a society; it is held for the dogs to be assessed and their owners and exhibitors to have a good day out, win or lose. I therefore hope that everyone enjoyed their day.
Very pleased with the entry of 211 dogs making 242 entries, both in terms of numbers and in depth of quality of the entry. Class entry numbers shown are give or take some catalogue changes during the day, which are reflected in my numbers below. Absentees in new dogs gave an absentee rate of 34%.
Given that I have previously had to talk about dogs being kept too thin, it was good that there were only one or two dogs who could have done with more weight on them (one especially where I could feel the pin bones protruding), but most of those shown today were in good body weight and condition. While it is a real thrill, it is also a sadness to me to be judging well filled classes of quality dogs or bitches, knowing that some of those I really like have to go card-less, just because of the excellence of the entry.
Many times, in quite a few classes, hard decisions had to be made. Spanning is to me, one of the most important things after breed type (after all, you can span other breeds of terrier and I was looking for a Border!), but even the best typy dogs cannot win if I am unable to span them. A Border that cannot get to ground and back out, is not "essentially a working terrier". There were so many good ones today who were easily spanned, who also had excellent heads and moved so well and who came to hand well when lifted from the floor. Although some I had loved from ringside, were difficult to span and so paid the price, it is surprising that others, who might have looked on the large side from ringside in earlier days, were surprisingly easy to span. Nothing beats getting hands on. Judging by today's quality entry, I can safely say that the breed is in a good place.
I understand that during the day, a Diamond Jubilee Celebration cake, arranged by Pat and Brian Baxter, was cut into and offered to exhibitors, with a glass of fizz to toast the Club. Special gifts were awarded to each exhibitor/member (one per household) of a glass paperweight bearing the Club's name and notation to celebrate the Club's Diamond Jubilee. I was also pleased to receive one of the paperweights as the judge, along with a nice bottle, thank you!
It was a long day, with a 10am start. In future, the Club may decide to think about an earlier start and while the 2 classes held in the interval were a good idea, I thought, and well received, it did mean that I was not able to ask for the 20 minute or 1/2 hour break I would have preferred, but in the end, while waiting for those classes to be judged, I believe the break lasted around an hour and a quarter (we finished Puppy bitch at 1.25pm but could not get back into the ring to start Junior Bitch until 2.40pm), which put the show's ending back to much later than it might have been. Perhaps if Clubs decide to put on those extra classes, they would best be done either at an Open show, or at a Championship show where the venue is big enough for a separate ring. There was an entry of 26 for the judge of the 2 separate classes. What if it had been 50? Having said that, I offer my congratulations to the society for being innovative and forward thinking on this, but I just think it needs tweaking.
A long day, but a very enjoyable one; thanks again to all who entered under me at this special Diamond Jubilee Show of the Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire Border Terrier Club and thank you to the Club for their hospitality and the lovely gifts.
Thanks again to all exhibitors for a super entry for this special celebration show.
Junior - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
What a lovely head this dog possesses, with correct 1/3rd to 2/3rds proportions and a great varminty expression. Nice tight coat, if a little short of coat today. Could change places with the other 2 on another day. Another good class.
Driffield Agricultural Society
3rd Oct 2015
Judge: Miss Jean Singh
Many thanks to my two efficient stewards who kept the proceedings running smoothly. On the day I was surprised to find 4 level mouths, although a level mouth is acceptable in the standard, a scissor bite is preferable. Some exhibits could have been shown in a fitter condition and have their long nails clipped.
Junior - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
4th Oct 2015
Judge: Mr J Thomas (Daluce)
It was an honour to be invited to judge such a prestigious show as "The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show " I would like to humbly thank the committee for their invitation and their warm welcome on the day.
I would also like to thank my stewards on the day Allen Horner, Anne Maltby and Dave Mitchell, who kept the ring running smoothly for me.
Finally would like to thank the exhibitors for giving me the pleasure of going over their dogs and accepting my decisions in a sporting manner.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Grizzle and tan dog. Excelled in head, with keen expression, good strength of muzzle with large teeth. Just coming into new tight coat. Not the narrowness of 1 and not so settled on the move.
South Wales Kennel Association
10th Oct 2015
Judge: Mr Phil Sharp
I would like to thank the committee of SWKA for their invitation to judge & their hospitality on the day, my stewards for all their hard work, & the exhibitors for their support making Border Terriers the highest entry in the group.
I was recently reminded just how long I have been involved with the breed when a photograph was circulated of the exhibitors at the very first open show of the Southern Border Terrier Club, held in a field close to the rectory at Hawkesbury. I guess this must have been in the early 1970s. It also prompted me to think that I must have judged for the first time some 40 years ago & I have seen a lot of Borders over the years since then. Each time I have judged I have been fortunate to find a few outstanding dogs, some very good ones, mostly good ones & very few poor ones. This was the case once again at this show.
Dentition was good, there were no kinked tails & movement & coats were variable as normal. A couple of the dogs were spooked by the loudspeaker announcements, which was a great shame for the owners. I believe that everyone knows the faults of their own dogs, so it is the plus points that I have noted down for the most part.
For one reason or another, I have not got to a show for a year or thereabouts, so seeing most of these dogs for the first time was a real pleasure.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
on his own but would have done well against competition. Pleasing head with nice small ears set close to the cheeks. Really fit condition & moved soundly. Thick pelt, tail set on well. Shows much promise
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
14th Nov 2015
Judge: Miss T James (Blackmine)
I was honoured to be invited to judge at the Scottish Border Terrier Club and I thoroughly enjoyed my day. It was concerning that there were a large proportion of exhibits with poor front movement. The other area which I thought needed attention was heads – many lacked strength in foreface. On the positive side all the dogs had good temperaments, were clean and trimmed up to a good standard. Coats were all at various stages (as usual) but I found very few single coated exhibits. It was also pleasing to see so many neat cat-like feet. I felt that the quality of the bitches out-weighed that of the dogs.
Junior /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
not a showy dog but a lot to like once you get your hands on him. Lovely masculine head, straight front, ribs carried well back. I would prefer a better tailset. Thick loose pelt and double coat. Moved very well.
Class Critique
Another difficult class
Ladies Kennel Association
13th Dec 2015
Judge: Mrs Melanie Lewis (Tonromel)
Thank you to the Officers and Committee of LKA for the invitation to officiate and to my two excellent Stewards, Barry McCartney and Sue Jones, for their invaluable assistance throughout judging. Thank you to the exhibitors for a super entry of 176 exhibits making 192 entries, the largest entry in the Terrier Group, and also for the sporting manner in which my decisions were accepted.
Numerically the bitch entry was double the size of the dog entry, but on the whole the standard in both sexes was pleasing with some very strong contenders for top honours. Coats varied from being completely stripped out with only soft undercoat to those that were completely blown, however, many were presented in good jackets of the correct texture. Feet on the whole were good, being firmly padded. On a few exhibits the tails appeared to be overly long which on closer examination revealed that it was superfluous hair. If this had been removed it would have improved the overall picture. All males were entire and the temperaments displayed by all the exhibits was very good. I was presented with some very nice puppy entries, many showing a lot of promise, which can only auger well for the future of the breed.
I was very pleased with both my final dog and bitch line ups, with some tough decisions having to be made when it came to awarding the top honours, such was the depth of quality. All of my finalists were in fit condition; moved with purpose; had good muscle tone; pliable pelts and spanned with ease and I believe that, if the opportunity presented, they would be able to undertake the functions asked for in the breed standard. My one plea to exhibitors is to please refrain from pushing treats into the dog's mouth when the dog is being judged on the table as it makes it very difficult for a judge to assess the exhibit. Reward them by all means if you have to, but only do so at the appropriate time.
Junior - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
a lot to like about this dog, despite him being full of himself and giving his handler a hard time. He is of an excellent breed type with everything in proportion. Lovely masculine head, straight front, ribs carried well back and well muscled quarters. He had a thick loose pelt and full double coat. Once he settled he moved o.k.
Boston & District Canine Society
10th Jan 2016
Judge: Mrs Janet Lee (Tythrop)
My thanks to the Society for my invitation to judge at Boston show . Thanks too to my stewards who were both efficient and unobtrusive , great timesavers and cheerful ! I very much enjoyed my day on the woolsack and had some lovely dogs and bitches who I felt could do a days work , having the construction to enable them to run the equivalent of a marathon over rough terrain , as well as being narrow , lithe and spannable to get in underground and ultimately back out again . Some did pay the penalty of being too big in rib and thus were heavily over standard for weight when picked up or too wide in front to get in , others failed in their construction to move in a sound , balanced , long , free striding way making one think they could not follow a horse any distance ! All bar 1 male were entire , there were a few with kinks in their tails and I had more than the usual number of level bites , some with very jumbled or small teeth which I feel must be watched carefully and please try to breed out as they are the defence of a working terrier – Border Terriers should have big scissor bite dentition . I still believe a BT should be capable of free standing and moving on a looser lead as of yore , rather than having their legs screwed on and being too strung up , I understand some dogs do not make the most of themselves free stood , but a lot are pushed into a very strange shape by their handlers ,and lose the vivacity and ‘active and game’ outlook that is part and parcel of the breed , making them very depressed , even some of the puppies looked as though they would rather be anywhere else but in a show ring , either from being over shown or over handled . There were a few dogs who I felt needed more weight on them , their coats hiding their stuck up spine & pin bones – this may be to try and make them more easily spannable or weigh nearer the standard , but it is very unfair on any adult or puppy to starve them , and they did pay the price in some classes as they could not work as thin and lacking strength as they were. In other words they should be made right not starved into shape .
Both my challenge line ups pleased me , and I was especially pleased to have such a good even bitch challenge where I was spoilt for choice , ultimately the dog and bitch I could visualize most easily following horse and hounds and then working gained top honours , being well made , spannable , good coats and pelts , sound free accurate movers with quality and breed type .
Junior - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Scottish Border Terrier Club Single Breed Limited Show
24th Jan 2016
Judge: Ms J Orr (Apasc)
I would like to thank the Club for inviting me to judge at the Scottish Border Terrier Club's 2016 Limited Show. I would also like to thank all the exhibitors who gave me the opportunity to go over their dogs. Thanks also to Helen & Jim for their excellent stewarding
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Beautiful youngster who is all dog. Caused his handler no end of trouble. Strong masculine head. Lovely large teeth, correct scissor bite and strong muzzle. Good reach of neck and layback of shoulders. Narrow, well ribbed back and spanned with ease. Good angulation and well muscled but unable to assess his movement due to his misbehaving which, along with no coat on the day, cost him the class.
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
27th Feb 2016
Judge: Mrs Elizabeth Barrett (Howthwaite)
Firstly, I would like to thank the committee, members and exhibitors for the fantastic entry at this, my first club open show. It was a great privilege to judge here on the 50th anniversary of the Jedbergh show and to be able to get my hands on all these dogs. Thank you to my ring stewards, Jane Morton-Shaw and Janice Johnson for their hard work and efficiency. Thank you also, to Carole MacKenzie for going the extra mile with my lunch and plying me with all sorts of gluten free goodies!
All the dogs were entire and I found only two or three kinked tails, but mouths were a bit of a concern. There were a lot of level bites, and although “acceptable” we should all be mindful of this when breeding on. Strong scissor bites with typically large teeth is what we should be aiming for. The majority of dogs were in good fit order, but unfortunately a small number of exhibits were rather thin and lacking condition. The two shouldn’t be confused. There were also quite a number of very short, and in some cases, sprung ribs, and quite a few lacking angulation and length of upper arm in front. On a positive note, there were some very promising youngsters, especially in the young bitch classes, which can only bode well for the future.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Dark grizzle and tan. Another with a lovely head, slightly shorter muzzle than one. Excellent bite, little stop and well set ears. Nicely angulated front and back. Good for bone. Well muscled and sound moving when settled.
Whitehaven & DCA Open Show
20th Mar 2016
Judge: Anna Duxbury (Ridgebow)
I would very much like to thank the officers and committee for offering me this appointment, and for their excellent hospitality. Thanks also to the ring steward/show secretary who kept things running smoothly. Mostly, of course, I would like to thank all the exhibitors for allowing me not only the privilege of going over their dogs and their sporting acceptance of my decisions but also their patience whilst waiting for our ring to become free! Temperaments on the day were excellent; coats were quite varied. I found no dogs with incorrect bites and all male dogs were entire.
Post Graduate /
Reserve
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
26th Mar 2016
Judge: Mr Bill Gray (Pontbeck)
A very big thank you to the club members, committee and officers for the privilege to judge this show for a second time. The club ensured I enjoyed my day with a warm welcome and being attentive to my every need. My stewards efficiency took a good burden from my shoulders and I was allowed to concentrate and assess the dogs.
Coats were a mixed bag from very little to very full but I would just say you can't judge something you can't see. I found it strange that some exhibits were stripped out except for a ridge of top coat running down their spine, creating a good outline is important but you can feel for body shape while handling. Heads were, in the main, very good to excellent with only a few that were lacking true Border character. The breed seems to have got on top of the problem regarding rear movement but front movement still needs to be addressed with a good number of exhibits " throwing their front around "
I was delighted in my main winners especially BIS. If I have seen a better example of the breed during the many years I've had an interest I can't remember. An outstanding dog in every respect, a true ambassador for Border Terriers and a dog that will be remembered in generations to come. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity of judging him.
The two puppy bitch classes along with junior and yearling bitch were packed with quality and that bodes well for the future.
Yearling - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Very typical of this kennel and my type of Border. Strong masculine head, plenty of coat with good texture, nothing to dislike but he wasn't as steady on the move which decided the positions.
National Terrier
2nd Apr 2016
Judge: Mrs T Grubbe (Borderhouse)
It was a honour to be asked to judge National Terrier Club Championship Show, awarding CC for the second time. A great entry. I thoroughly enjoyed my day, I was very pleased with my main winners. The overall quality was good. I saw some dogs who could have more drive in the movement and better front.
I send my warmest thanks to the committee and my ring stewards for taking so good care of me and making me feel so welcome.
Yearling - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
16th Apr 2016
Judge: Mrs. Kathy Newsome (Kighill)
My thanks go to the Northern Border committee for their warm welcome and for the honour of judging their Open show. I really enjoyed my day, and the ladies put on a lovely lunch and Christine’s apple pie was the best pudding of the day. I received a lovely entry and I was very pleased with my winners. My thanks also go out to the exhibitors for allowing me to inspect their dogs on the day. My thanks also go to my two stewards who were a great help on the day.
It is only my opinion, but I think that the size of the border terriers is slowly returning back in line with the breed standard which I am pleased about as I thought that Border terriers were getting too long in the leg. Mouths were good, all dogs were entire, but just a few exhibits were a bit close at the rear. A few exhibitors could do with spending a little time learning how to tidy their dogs and how to get the best out of the dog on the day.
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Lovely head with excellent bite, neat ears. Well angulated front and back, lovely lines, well-muscled, good thick pelt and moved ok.
West of England Ladies' Kennel Society
24th Apr 2016
Judge: Mr Frank Nicholls (Halcus)
An excellent entry, with real quality in both dogs and bitches. I’m only sorry we were forced indoors after the puppy bitch class to get out of the biting wind bouncing off the Malvern Hills. Heads were generally good, just a few snipey muzzles, and three or four light noses. I found no bad mouths. Quite a few had short, round rib cages with weak loins. Coats were pretty good overall. The biggest problem, and has been for quite some time, was poor front movement, with exhibits moving quite reasonably, and as one would expect from a breed expected to run whilst carrying out its job, when viewed from the side, only to wave their legs all over the place when coming towards me.
Yearling - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Scottish Kennel Club
22nd May 2016
Judge: Mr Simon Jackson
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Very typical of this kennel, hard thick coat, correct undercoat, very nicely put together, great strong head, lovely temperament. Covered the ground well on the move.
Southern Counties Canine Association
4th Jun 2016
Judge: Mrs Anne Tove Strande
I was thrilled to receive the invitation to come back to Southern Counties and judge Border Terriers!
The organizers know how to make people feel welcomed and I enjoyed the relaxed and friendly atmosphere! All details were very well taken care of and in the ring my stewards were extremely efficient and nice. Thanks to the exhibitors for showing their dogs under me and for their presentation, which was very professional.
I enjoyed the overall quality of the Borders. There were many with lovely otter heads and with correct racy outline. All but one was easily spannable and agile. I also appreciated good pelts and quality otter tails. Coats were of good texture, but I wish more dogs could be presented with fuller coats. I appreciate a Border with truly double coat and a little “tweedy” look about them so they do not remind me of a smooth terrier. Movements were free, but quite a few could improve in front movement becoming more stable and parallel.
My winning dog and bitch were both of such high quality they could win anywhere, both under breed specialists as well as all-rounders. In addition to having correct breed specific details, they were also well constructed. I chose the bitch as my BOB because she had that extra attitude and showmanship making her an eyecatcher. It made me proud on behalf of the breed that she also won the group!
Yearling - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Lovely head and small ears. Very good topline. Moved freely but could have shown more stride. Coat of good texture but slightly too much.
Three Counties Championship Show
10th Jun 2016
Judge: Miss S Dandy
Yearling - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
The Sothern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
11th Jun 2016
Judge: Professor S P Dean (Tyrian)
It was a pleasure to judge the SBTC Championship Show and very pleasing to do so on their return to the Cheltenham racecourse. The new venue on the racecourse site has impressive facilities and they helped to provide a good atmosphere all day.
The bitch classes were generally very much better than the dog classes and the number of border terriers with thick pelts and a good coat was impressive. Heads are very much improved although some deep stops and large heavy ears cost a few dogs a higher placing.
In general terms the construction of hindquarters has improved but we are now seeing some dogs which have too much bend of stifle and end up with their hocks well behind their tail root when standing. Lay-back of shoulders has also improved yet some still have those relatively upright shoulders which yield a stilted movement in front. In addition, we need to keep the narrowness of the breed in mind, the border terrier does not have a rounded chest and should be well ribbed back as a result.
I struggled to span quite a few male dogs but the bitches were much better. Dentition was very good overall and very strongly made teeth was most enjoyable to find and always an impressive quality to see when examining a border terrier’s mouth.
Finally it was nice to see a few dogs with the characteristic thick carrot-shaped tail which, when set on correctly, always finishes the overall picture. Keep in mind it is an asset for the working terrier.
At the end there were some very promising youngsters who will contribute the future of the breed and several very high quality Border Terriers competing for Best in Show.
Yearling - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
21 mo. Strongly built and fit with a typical head and neat ears. Good muscle but outline failed to impress. Thick coat and pelt needed some attention. Did not enjoy his time in the ring.
Border Union Agricultural Society
19th Jun 2016
Judge: Mrs M Wanless
My sincere thanks go to the officers and committee of Border Union for this appointment, this is such a well run, friendly show, with outstanding hospitality!
My thanks also to my two Stewards on the day, Ella Linton, and Alan Small. Thank you too to all those who entered under me, and came, and accepted my decisions with good grace. I was pleased with my winners. I do wish though that dogs were shown on a loose lead, and stacked freely. Big ears are becoming prevalent, not as in the standard. Presentation and condition played a large part in my decisions.
Yearling - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
16th Jul 2016
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Bailey (Grindelvald)
I would like to thank the Northern Border Terrier Club’s committee for the invitation to judge at this well organised & friendly show, I really enjoyed my day. A big thank you, to my stewards Sharon & Graham, who kept me on track throughout the day. On the down side some poor mouths, some of the males where lacking substance & not very masculine, bordering on thin, not sure they could do a days work. The depth of quality in the bitches was excellent & this meant that some decisions were very close & many lovely bitches missed out on this occasion. Also my thanks to the exhibitors for their sporting acceptance of my decisions.
Yearling - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
7th Aug 2016
Judge: Dogs: Ms Elspeth Jackson, Bitches: Mr Mike Hollingsbee
Dogs - Elspeth Jackson
I would like to extend many thanks to The Committee of the Midland Border Terrier Club for once again organising an enjoyable, well run show with a relaxed garden party atmosphere. It was an honour and a pleasure this year to enjoy it as Judge of the dog classes and I would like to thank the Officers and Committee for this honour. I was very ably assisted by two capable and efficient stewards to whom I would like to give thanks both for their help and for their hospitality. Further and important thanks are due to all the exhibitors who did me the honour of going over their dogs. It was a super entry both numerically and in depth of quality with cc quality dogs right down the line in some classes.
Bitches - Mike Hollingsbee
I would like to thank the Officers and Committee of the Club for inviting me to judge bitches at their show. I would also like to thank my stewards Sharon Pickering and Helen Thomas for keeping me in order and running the ring so efficiently. My thanks also go to the exhibitors for allowing me to examine their dogs and accepting my decisions.
Together with my co-judge Elspeth Jackson we managed to agree on the major honours of the day apart from Best Veteran. I preferred Elspeth’s dog choice and she chose my selection of veteran bitch. Our referee John Dace was called in and awarded Best Veteran to the bitch.
Yearling - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Strong headed masculine, well muscled dog shown in new short harsh top coat on a good thick undercoat.
Scottish Kennel Club
27th Aug 2016
Judge: Professor A S Milton
It was a pleasure to come back to Scotland, even though for just a day, and to judge Border Terriers at the Scottish Kennel Club's August Show. Looking at the catalogue I was surprised to find that Border Terriers had the fourth largest entry at the show. It was a very satisfactory entry, with many dogs that I had not seen before. I was particularly impressed with the overall quality of the coats. There was only one really bad mouth, a few crooked teeth, so what, as long as they can bite! I was concerned about size, not only those outwith the standard, but also even more worrying, those that I could not span. I should like to thank Joyce Martin for sending me a CD with photos of all the class winners.
RDCC
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
RDCC. Carrying many of his sire's good points. Lovely strong head , strong jaw and teeth. Good reach of neck, Good topline. Excellent front and rear.. Really tough coat. Drove well on the move.
Darlington Championship Dog Show
16th Sep 2016
Judge: Mr Mark Lowry (Ravenside)
Thank you to Darlington Dog Show Society for inviting me to judge their show. Special thanks to my stewards who’s relaxed but competent manner made for an enjoyable show, also a big thank you to all the exhibitors for allowing me to go over their dogs. I was very happy with my main winners who I felt were fit for purpose and should have continued success in the show ring.
Mouths were good with even the smaller exhibits still having big strong teeth. Coats were of various lengths as to be expected. The two biggest concerns were heavy, almost sprung ribs in some dogs. Even on some smaller dogs and bitches, which in profile appear fine, but when going over, were surprisingly big in rib. This would hinder them when working underground. I am not saying they should be flat ribbed but the standard states deep and narrow and not over sprung.
Also I found not many dogs moving without much drive from behind. They should have the soundness to follow a horse. I did think on the whole that dogs were turned out very well and temperaments appeared good.
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Driffield Agricultural Society Championship Dog Show
1st Oct 2016
Judge: Mrs Jane Roberts (Smalesmouth)
I would like to thank the officers and committee of the Driffield Agricultural Society for the invitation to judge at their show.
I was grateful to have the use of an excellent sized ring. The surface was rather undulating and rough cut in places, which proved more of a challenge to those dogs whose movement did not have “the soundness to follow a horse”. It was a very raw start to the day with the dogs being judged under rather cold and misty conditions although the sun did break through as the bitch classes began.
Grateful thanks to my stewards Anne and Sarah, who kept everything moving so efficiently and were good company for the day. My thanks to all the exhibitors, it really is a privilege to go over your dogs and is always a learning curve. I had a thoroughly enjoyable day and there were some top quality exhibits and some promising youngsters, whose progress I will watch with interest. Some decisions were hard, and limit dog, junior and limit bitch had quality in depth.
It was extremely rewarding to find some very good double jackets amongst the entry but felt there were several others who had thin pelts or lacked undercoat. There were a couple with teeth out of alignment and too many dogs whose movement lacked the necessary drive from the hindquarters.
I was mindful of the job that Border Terriers were bred to undertake and I was pleased with my class winners; making the challenge for both dogs and bitches an enjoyable if difficult task.
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Class Critique
This was a very good class of quality dogs that went beyond the placings.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
2nd Oct 2016
Judge: Mrs. Carolyn Richardson (Staynorwood)
Many thanks to Officers and Committee of the Northern Border Terrier Club for their kind invitation to judge their Open Show and the exhibitors for the sporting way they accepted my decisions. Thank you also to my Ring Steward Allen Horner and Dave Mitchell. I was very pleased with my winners on the day.
Limit - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
15th Oct 2016
Judge: Mr. Graham Richardson (Staynorwood)
I would like to thank The Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their Open Show . The club and officers were very welcoming and I thoroughly enjoyed my day . I would like to thank my very helpful stewards Liz Barratt and Janice Johnson who kept things flowing through the day . I was pleased with my entry with some quality dogs to handle. It was also good to see some promising pups coming through . I was very pleased with my winners on the day
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Balanced dog, heavier in bone than 1st place. Otter like head with short muzzle, narrow front and good shoulders , heavy double coat ,narrow ribbed ,spannable, not as well angulated in quarters as 1st place .
Manchester General Championship Show
19th Jan 2017
Judge: Mrs Karen Dean (Tyrian)
I would first like to thank the society for inviting me to judge and also my stewards for efficiently managing the ring. This is a particularly difficult time of year for coats especially with Crufts on the horizon, producing some results that would change on another day. Several exhibits lacked the harsh top coat and some were past their best resulting in good harshness but lack of undercoat so giving a thin feel to coat and particularly the pelt. I was a little disappointed in the number of exhibits that were not displaying the drive I was looking for and hope this is also due to the time of year. I was particularly pleased with both my CC and RCC winners especially in relation to their movement.
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Border Union Agricultural Society
17th Jun 2017
Judge: Mr Phil Sharp (Martec)
I would like to thank the Committee for inviting me to judge at this Show. It was my first visit to Kelso and I was most impressed with the hospitality and organisation there. My two excellent stewards, Gordon and Donald, kept me on the straight and narrow and contributed to a lovely atmosphere in and around the ring.
I did not make my usual visit to the SBTC championship show the weekend before as I wanted to see all the dogs afresh, and I am glad I did as many of the exhibits were new to me. In general, mouths were good, with dentition only slightly awry in one instance. I found no kinked tails and all dogs were entire.
It was a very hot and sunny day and this affected some dogs, who perhaps lacked their normal animation and were moving lethargically. As usual, there was a wide variation in coats, with some totally lacking top coat, and this naturally had an effect on the placings.
I would like to thank the exhibitors for the large entry and for the sporting way in which my decisions were taken throughout my judging stint.
Limit - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
The Nothern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
15th Jul 2017
Judge: Mrs. P. McLellan (Breconbeds)
My thanks to the committee and members for giving me the opportunity to judge this show, with such an excellent entry. However, I’m sorry to say that I was alarmed to see so many dogs that were short in both rib and leg, resulting in short backed and cobby looking dogs with deep briskets. I also observed that some of these same dogs had pleasant enough heads but carried very small teeth.
Movement was a major concern; decent enough dogs to examine but poor fronts on the move spoiled the whole picture – toeing in and/or with incorrect shoulder angulation. Some were really wide in front.
Limit - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Leeds Championship Dog Show
22nd Jul 2017
Judge: Mrs Jayne Alpe
Thanks to the committee for my invitation and for providing two excellent stewards who enabled me to easily get on with my judging. Thank you to the exhibitors for the good quality entry. Overall impression from last time I judged was that movement has improved somewhat but many lacked the drive and ease of movement that is needed in a dog that was bred to follow a horse. I was looking for both this and balance without some of the over exaggerations that I have noticed slowly creeping in to the breed. I was delighted to see my BOB pulled into the cut in the group and my BP with a Group 4.
Limit - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Scottish Kennel Club
27th Aug 2017
Judge: Mr Euan Castel (Flutorum)
My thanks to the committee for their kind invitation to judge at this my local Championship Show. Special thanks to my excellent steward Ben Joiner for keeping everything in order. Thank you to all exhibitors for providing me with a lovely entry to go over. I found a depth of quality in each class with some close decisions to make. Very pleased that my Best of Breed, Best Puppy and Best Veteran went on to do well in their respective groups – well done.
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
15th Jul 2018
Judge: Professor S P Dean (Tyrian)
Thoroughly enjoyed my day with the NBTC. My thanks to the Committee for the appointment and the exhibitors for their entry of Borders. I was well looked after all day and I would like to express my gratitude to my Stewards who did an excellent job by keeping focused on their task throughout the day. I was extremely pleased with the overall quality of the dogs across both sexes. For those who left without prize cards do not be too disappointed, I saw only one undershot jaw and no dog was out of place in the show ring. My top winners were all outstanding dogs and there were several others who deserve that label who were placed but did not reach the final accounting. Overall heads are very good but let’s be careful not to breed for too much strength in skull. Ensure we balance what we have with equal strength in muzzle and under-jaw and please lots more beautiful large white teeth. Most dogs had the correct outline, with many good top-lines and neat tails. Coats and pelts were generally very good and do not be afraid to show a Border in that rich, thick ,harsh, double coat they are well known for. Generally conformation was correct, with shoulders and stifles showing acceptable angulation. The straight stifle is quite rare, but equally let’s not over do the angulation of the hind limb as that produces weakness. Short hocks go best with correct stifles. Dogs with a length of leg, drive from hindquarters, tight feet and good ribbing did well today provided they had the typical Border Terrier characteristics we all look for. A few dogs are getting a little long in body for a variety of reasons. Some have their shoulder set forwards on the chest, some lack the well ribbed-back conformation and so appear to have long couplings and some have shorter legs than they ideally need. Much of this was marginal today but they are all points to remember as the breed moves forward. I was pleased with the CC line ups and excited by the quality in some of the youngsters coming through. It would have been nice to reward some of these emerging future champions with higher honours but the quality at the top was too much for relatively immature dogs.
Limit - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Class Critique
High quality class where several worthy dogs went without.
Leeds Championship Dog Show
29th Jul 2018
Judge: Mr Brian Baxter (Beenaben)
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Boston & District Canine Society
6th Jan 2019
Judge: Mrs Beverley Barber (Alcumlow)
Thank you to all exhibitors who entered their dogs for me to judge. Thank you to Boston Show Society for inviting me to judge and putting on a very well organised event. Running these events is hard work and takes a lot of organising. The breed has changed a lot in the thirty years I have owned and been part of. Heads are very varied and lack strength under the eye so giving a weaker muzzle and too many domed skulls. Good movement is hard to find too many borders just mark time. Coats were varied but it is a difficult time of the year and I am not a fan of the over tidied coat or worrying about perfect presentation but a little attention to detail helps. A lot of long nails and excess hair on the feet, and a lot of long hair left on sides of the head and muzzles. My judging is based on good shape and conformation in accordance with the breed standard and of course good movement that allows the dog to cover the ground with ease. No animal is perfect and we all judge in our own way but I enjoyed today's challenge.
Limit - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Excellent headed dog with superb coat and general appearance, of correct size and breed type.
Class Critique
Liked this class, nicest class of the day. Many good dogs had to go cardless. All five placings were good moving dogs
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Limited Show
27th Jan 2019
Judge: Mr P Lothian (Lairhope)
I would like to thank the Scottish Border Terrier Cub for inviting me to judge their 2019 Limited Show and to Exhibitors for allowing me to go over their dogs. I really enjoyed my day. Thank you also to the Committee for the excellent hospitality. Many thanks...
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Best Dog
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Reserve Best In Show
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Just my type, otter-head with varminty expression. Good topline and tail-set. Narrow front on straight legs with good angulation on back legs. Moved okay, but needs to steady up. A proper Border Terrier with character.
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
23rd Feb 2019
Judge: Ms Tina Jones (Otterholme)
May I take the opportunity to thank the Club and its members for inviting me to judge at this show, and for the super warm hospitality I received. Special thanks to my ring stewards Carolyn Richardson and Janice Johnson, for being so efficient and keeping me on track.
I would like to say a huge thank you to the exhibitors for giving me the opportunity to go over their dogs, this was a real honour and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
A few observations from the day, I felt rear movement on the whole was good but a few lacked the drive that I looked for, whilst in others it was their elevated front action that indicates an upper arm that is shorter than ideal. Today I saw too many that were far too wide in front, lacking the narrowness to go to ground. I like to see feet that are tight with a good thick pad so vital in an earth dog, many were lacking in this important trait.
Heads which are such a defining aspect of this breed, varied greatly, I found some too exaggerated and coarse for my liking, whilst others were narrow and somewhat snipey in muzzle, neither are correct.
Today I found coats at all stages, perhaps a sign that Crufts was not far around the corner, so perhaps not the best month to find a thick double jacket, so I found myself forgiving a lack of coat if the construction and balance I look for was there.
I found temperaments superb, dentition all good and all dogs entire. I felt the depth of quality was in the bitches, and in some classes I was spoilt for choice. Both puppy bitch classes were high in quality, and I look forward to seeing how they mature.
I am always mindful to judge fit for function, and I was happy that my winners fitted that bill.
Limit - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Open Show
2nd Jun 2019
Judge: Mr Jem Thomas (Daluce)
I would like to thank the club and committee for inviting me to judge their show. My ring steward on the day Lesley Roberts kept things flowing wonderfully for us all. I must pass my complements to the chef. Lunch and hospitality on the day was fantastic. All of this and some very nice dogs to go over on the day. Thank you all very much for a wonderful day.
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Grizzle and tan. Upstanding dog. Georgeous otter head. Large teeth. Very neat ears dropping close to the cheek. Excellent in front. Straight and narrow. Good in rib. Well angulated rear. Just a little over exuberant today
Border Union Agricultural Society
15th Jun 2019
Judge: Joyce Martin (Merumhor)
I would like to thank Border Union Agricultural Society for the invitation to judge my first CC appointment in Border Terriers and to my ring steward Alicia Wilson for keeping me right and the smooth efficiency of getting each class in the ring to keep things going.
I was delighted with the super entry of 123 dogs making 142 entries and appreciate all the exhibitors that gave me the opportunity to go over their dogs and the sporting way they accepted my decisions.
The overall quality was excellent, I was privileged to judge so many lovely dogs and I was pleased with my main winners, all looking in tip top condition on the day.
I was surprised that in some of the exhibits that underneath good coats there was lack of condition and a bit thin and some were lacking thick skin and loose pelt that is important in our breed.
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
East of England Championship Show
6th Jul 2019
Judge: Mrs Janet Alexander (Glenbucket)
Limit - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
13th Jul 2019
Judge: Mrs Laura Illingworth (Thorneyhurst)
A big thanks to The Northern Border Terrier Club for there invitation to judge their club show, my first club open show was for the Northern many years ago, and the friendliness and hospitality has not changed. Thank you to the exhibitors for such a good entry and great atmosphere around the ring, and most especially to my two capable stewards Carolyn and Graham Richardson for keeping every thing flowing, and not putting a foot wrong all day. The quality of exhibits was second to none and many good dogs had to go home without a card, teeth were excellent and not one kinked tail or missing testicle all day, nice to see so many of the borders looked capable of doing a days work.
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Placing Critique
Masculine dog with fabulous head, strong jaw and big teeth, liked his movement, lots of drive from well muscled rear, lovely to see him shown free standing, pushed hard for rcc
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
4th Aug 2019
Judge: Dogs: Diane Bullen (Fevstone) Bitches: Sally Leslie (Risdene)
*Judge: Dogs: Diane Bullen (Fevstone)*
I would like to thank the Midland Border Terrier Club for inviting me to judge their show and making me feel most welcome. I would also like to thank my Stewards for a sterling job.
A good exhibit entry on the day with couple of them forgetting to remove their carpet slippers judging by their feet, and also a couple that I felt they were impersonating Austin Powers international man of mystery judging by the amount of chest hair left on! But on a more serious note, yet again underweight dogs with some having barely a covering of flesh which was disappointing, some dogs also un-spannable.
Both of the above reflecting in my placing’s. On a more positive note some excellent specimens shown today both in coat, movement and good old fashioned strong otter type heads.
*Judge: Bitches: Sally Leslie (Risdene)*
Thank you to the Committee and Exhibitors for a super day. It must always be a pleasure and honour to judge at a club show where the depth of quality is clearly high and this was especially appreciated after so many had also made the long journey to Devon the day before.
I’m not going to lecture. After all we are all on the same side and want our breed to thrive. However I think I should mention that movement is not generally true and accurate fore and aft. I did see some strange limb and joint placement. Notwithstanding less than perfect gait I still sought something that did not make me uncomfortable to watch and importantly for me exhibited easy freedom using the whole of the foot and leg assembly to take energy from the ground not jolting or with feet flipping limply but fluid placement with reach and drive. That does not imply exaggeration and wasted energy just simple low to the ground daisy cutting propulsion and economy which is a thing of beauty to behold.
Mouths and jaws generally were pleasing. The small pearly dentition of a while ago were not in evidence and I enjoyed the large teeth that never fail to surprise and please. For this reason I have not felt the need to remark individually.
I never penalise stacked exhibits but I Ioved the preponderance of handler’s free showing. Relaxed, well made examples do stand nicely naturally and it often seems to me that exhibitors know less than their charges when it comes to limb placement and balance.
Coats - I really appreciated those exhibitors who felt able to leave coats in place even though a little past their sell by date. I can happily judge through a good coat which enables me to ascertain texture and quality whereas however neat an outline the lack of any evidence of coat in this working breed must be a negative.
Happily my fellow judge and I agreed on most of the main placings and I did not trouble the Referee as for me the prime consideration for any exhibitor must surely be the CC.
Limit - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
19th Oct 2019
Judge: Miss Katie Hamilton (Cromlechs)
Firstly I would like to thank The Border Terrier Club for giving me the honour of judging the open show at Low Hesket, with this show and venue being very memorable from a young age I was delighted and privileged to accept the invitation to judge the show. A huge thank you goes to my two stewards on the day who kept my ring moving smoothly, also appreciation goes to the club as a whole for the great hospitality shown. The standard of the exhibits on the day was overall pleasing with quality of bitches slightly outweighing the dogs, many thanks to all exhibitors for giving me the chance to go over their dogs and making my day such a pleasure.
Open - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
Midland Counties Championship Show
24th Oct 2019
Judge: Mr Stuart Plane
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
9th Nov 2019
Judge: Mrs J Johnson (Ratcheugh)
Firstly my thanks to the Scottish Border Terrier Club for giving me the opportunities to judge their Championship show, the committee for their hospitality and my stewards for keeping me on track. My thanks also to Joyce Martin for giving me memories of the day.
Secondly my appreciation to all exhibitors some who had travelled many miles on a very cold and frosty morning, it was a privilege to go over your dogs and thank you for accepting my decisions.
I was extremely pleased with my main winners, it’s very pleasing to have a class of borders and find one which ticks all your boxes.
Some puppies were in my opinion are too big and some I found difficult to span. I also prefer if handlers allowed the puppy to walk loosely and not strung up, this throws the front movement.
Limit - Dog /
Very Highly Commended
Name at show: Irton Mountain Dew
