Show Placings
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
17th Jul 2021
Judge: Mrs Margaret Davies (Glenorchy)
My grateful thanks to the Club for inviting me to judge their July Open Show. I had a lovely day. I'd like to thank the exhibitors for a super entry
Also thanks to my very capable Steward, Allen Horner, who kept everything on track, Valerie Atkinson for a lovely lunch and to the club for their hospitality. The show was well organised considering the difficulties with Covid restrictions. I had difficulty in spanning quite a few exhibits and I was surprised to see a lot of small teeth. Also there were a lot of exhibits who could have do with their nails trimming. All dogs were entire and there were no kinky tails.
Best Puppy - Dog
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Best Puppy
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Lovely pup with good otter head, good ear placement and nice eye. Good dentition. Narrow front, good shoulders, nice level topline which he held on the move. Good tail set. Easily spanned. Moved well. Pleased to award him B.P.I.S.
Leeds Championship Show
25th Jul 2021
Judge: Mr Neil Straw (Shaolin)
Thank you to the Officer’s and Committee for their invitation to judge at their show and congratulate Liz Stannard and her hard working team for putting on the well organised show. Thank you to the exhibitors for a lovely entry and your support on the day with only 10 being absent. Temperaments throughout were excellent as you would expect, front movement is still an issue but I felt that some bitches were a tab up on size. All were well presented.
Best Puppy
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Puppy - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
well balanced from all angles, lovely otter head, dark well shaped eye, correct bite, clean flowing lines, narrow through, easliy spanned, thick pelt & super jacket, moved out well, should have a bright future
Blackpool & District Canine Society
22nd Aug 2021
Judge: Mrs P McLellan (Breconbeds)
My thanks to Blackpool & District Canine Society for the invitation to judge BorderTerriers, and thank you to my two very efficient stewards who kept things moving along in the ring.
Sadly today, rudeness to the stewards and a lack of sportsmanship seem to be on the increase.
Puppy - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Another nice grizzle dog in good coat and condition, with a pleasing eye and expression, but just preferred the overall picture of the winner.
Driffield Championship Dog Show
28th Aug 2021
Judge: Mrs Linda Coleman (Hartswelin)
I was extremely pleased with my quality entry on this my first occasion awarding C.C.'s in the breed and thrilled to see my B.O.B. go 2nd in the group.
I will not mention teeth and bites in my individual critiques as apart from three which were level all exhibits possessed good strong teeth with excellent bites.Very few animals were difficult to span but far too many bitches in the later classes carried too much condition!
As in many other judges comments over the last few years fronts are still a big problem, if a Border does not have a correctly angled upper arm and shoulder it will not be able to follow a horse all day however well angled the hindquarters might be. A lot of dogs feet were not as small and tight as I would like but this may be due to lack of suitable excercise over the extended lockdowns. On the plus side nearly all were presented in double coat.
It was a very tight decision for me for B.O.B. and it could have gone either way but a choice had to be made so the dog won on being more an ideal size.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
In super coat, lovely thick tail set on well, balanced head, good angles all round stood on lovely tight feet. Easy mover.
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
29th Aug 2021
Judge: Mrs Janet Lee (Tythrop)
My thanks to the Officers & Committee for inviting me to judge their show , & for the excellent ring stewards Mr Brewster & Mrs Armstrong who made the day run smoothly & kept me going with refreshments ! I enjoyed being with fellow BT fanciers & their dogs , as I always do .
I had a very good entry come forward & after such a long time away from the ring , a few were ring rusty & some youngsters were a little overawed , which I considered quite acceptable given so many had missed out on their early education & socialisation & tried to give them opportunity to shine , though a few very nice dogs could have been higher placed but the occasion was too much for them .
I found very good examples , but also had some whose construction fell a little short of the standard …….deep unspannable bodies or brisket below elbow standing or on the move on much shorter than their depth legs , forward placed & too little angulation in their fronts due to upright shoulders & short steep upper arms which shorten their strides or make them goosestep , & flat croups with extra high set tails carried like hound sterns ,or conversely short steep croups with low tailsets , often thin & long tails too & some poor downhill or lumpy/hinged toplines became apparent in profile movement , however the most common thing that struck me was how many have too little bone in pasterns & east-west feet when our standard calls for straight legs & good tight feet . As I lift every dog to see how their fronts ‘’drop’’ into place I found lack of bone through pasterns into feet was a common fault today & so some had feet not facing forward naturally . Most came in good condition , but a few were too thin & their pelvic bones were sticking up & they felt shelly with no depth of loin so their rears lacked muscle accordingly , conversely a handful had indulged during lockdown a little too much ! Coats were as ever , mixed , but the top winners all came in very good order with double coats .
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
very nice typy dog of handy size . Good head & eye , pleasing narrow construction throughout & well balanced fore to aft , so kept a good firm topline on the move , easily spanned with deep double coat & lovely pelt . Moved very well , just not quite as long & free striding as my winner today , but another I shall watch with interest . Beat a nice 9m puppy who looked immature in this class .
Wolsingham Open Show
5th Sep 2021
Judge: Mrs M Armstrong (Carrickfarm)
I would like to thank the committee of Wolsingham Show Dog Section for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at the Open Show. I had a lovely entry and thank the Exhibitors for allowing me the privilege to go over there dogs. I enjoyed the day very much.
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Red grizzle with a good otter head and nice dark eye. Good shoulders and dentition. Level topline and good tail set. Easily spannable and moved freely.
Darlington Championship Show
17th Sep 2021
Judge: Mrs E Cuthbertson (Ashbrae)
My thanks to Darlington Committee for the invitation to my ring stewards and the exhibitors for your entries. Not having attended a show since they started up again it was quite a surprize and worry to handle some very big dogs. I know size has always been a talking point in the breed but today it was a problem with some of the dogs, bitches were a much better size with some close decisions in their classes.
Another noticeable difference is some exhibitors deciding to run with their dogs, why I don’t know it’s something never seen or needed in the border ring. With some handlers in a class walking around and others deciding to run its not what is expected. Watching a dog and handler move in unison on a good, collected pace is much more acceptable.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Typical dog with a good masculine head and expression. Strong jaw and good bite. Spans well with good topline and angulation. Moved out well pity he was out of coat today.
The Midland Border Terrier Club 2020 Championship Show
24th Sep 2021
Judge: (Dogs) Anne Gregory (Remony) (Bitches) Liz Wright (Totherend)
DOGS:
A most enjoyable day judging dogs at this show and I would like to thank the Club for inviting me to do so. Thanks also to my two stewards, John and John, who kept things moving along in a professional and efficient manner. Thanks also to the exhibitors for their support and allowing me the privilege of going over their dogs.
Mouths, on the whole, were good and I found only one suspect mouth. There were plenty of typical otter heads but evidence also of stops that were too deep and muzzles that were too short, which is not typical of an otter head.
Movement in some dogs was less than desirable with a few crossing in front, toeing in or flicking wrists. Rear movement was somewhat better but side movement showed some dogs short stepping. I also found some flat, slack feet and loose pasterns, which could well have been improved with proper exercise, and some feet could have been tidied up to better effect.
Generally coats and pelts were harsh and thick but, in some classes, lack of coat was the deciding factor in final placements.
My main concern today was size and weight. Some dogs were very difficult to span, were too heavy and did not come to hand well. This must be addressed to ensure Borders remain fit for the purpose they were intended.
I was pleased with my final line-up and my co judge and I whole heartedly agreed when it came to the final awards.
BITCHES:
My thanks to the Midland Border Terrier Club for offering this my first judging appointment at championship level. I had a really enjoyable day and must thank exhibitors for their wonderful entry and allowing me the opportunity to go over their dogs. Huge thanks also to my two stewards, John & John, who kept everything running smoothly.
I was really pleased with the quality of exhibits, unfortunately this meant some good dogs went unplaced.
Coats were at various stages, all acceptable, but I personally prefer more than less. Some of the exhibits would have benefitted from a tidy up, especially feet. Front movement could have been better, a few upright shoulders and over-angulated rear ends. Overall size was OK, but a few were over weight which made them unspannable.
Really pleased with my final line up and final awards.
Junior - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
National Dog Show
24th Sep 2021
Judge: Mrs Wendy Mooney (Chesterton)
Thank you to the committee of Birmingham Dog Show Society for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at their show. Many thanks to all the exhibitors who entered and gave me the honour and pleasure of judging their dogs. I had a fabulous entry and was truly spoilt for choice in many of the classes. One general observation is that there were quite a number of dogs that were, in my opinion, simply too big to do the job that they are bred to do.
Junior - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
The Scottish Kennel Club (May) Championship Show
1st Oct 2021
Judge: Mrs Trudi Baird (Dowgri)
I was delighted to accept the invitation to judge at the May show postponed to October.
Under Scottish government rules it meant those of us inside had to wear masks & I thank the majority of exhibitors for complying with this legislation.
Thank you to my lone steward who was able to keep the classes coming in and ready for me, it wasn't an easy task with our neighbouring ring hosting the breeds October show but thankfully we didn't get too many clashes.
I always feel immensely privileged to be able to judge your dogs and I hope exhibitors felt that I gave each of you ample time to set up your dogs on the table to show them at their best.
The entry was varied and I felt my top winners were outstanding. As always coats were presented at various stages and bites were generally very good. A number with long flat & untidy feet and a few dogs I just couldn't span even with my large hands!
Junior - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Class Critique
This was such a nice class of junior males .
The Scottish Kennel Club (October) Championship Show
1st Oct 2021
Judge: Miss Anita Harrison (Iacheslei)
My thanks to SKC for holding the show after two changes of date and merging the May and October shows. It can’t have been easy. My grateful thanks to Bob Potts, my sole ring steward for the day, who cheerfully and calmly kept the ring running smoothly with the greatest efficiency.
Whilst my main winners fitted the breed standard I was disappointed with some of the other exhibits. The front movement on some left an awful lot to be desired. (Try videoing your dogs moving) Many were light of bone, on the leg and short coupled giving a square outline. Several had short round ribs. Having said that the majority were spannable. Dentition was generally good. All dogs were entire. Coats were at various stages but those with no coat had to be penalised in several classes. Presentation of some exhibits could have been better. Temperaments on the whole appeared to be okay, with just the odd exhibit displaying a tendency to be over excited in the presence of others.
Junior - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Border Union Championship Show
4th Oct 2021
Judge: Mr W Shorthose (Cundytyke)
Many thanks go to the exhibitors and my two stewards who kept going throughout a rather damp session during the judging of the bitch classes. One of the essentials of a working terrier is being able to withstand a little rain but there were a few exhibits with thin skins and short of coat. I found that some lacked muscle, particularly behind, which affected the driving movement necessary for the breed’s function. My other main concern was the lack of width in the jaws of some, detracting from the desired, ‘like that of an otter’, head shape. This is a most identifying feature of the breed and needs to be carefully adhered to.
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Typey border. Pleasing head. Good shoulder placement. Narrow all through, bt short of coat today
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
9th Oct 2021
Judge: Mr Jimmy Gilpin (Otterbobs)
I feel honoured to have been elected by the members to have judged their clubs 75 year show, and can I thank Alan and Graham for keeping things running so smoothly for me, and can I especially thank the committee for lunch that they provided and also Mr J Whalton for looking after me and my wife, I am not going to rant on about this and that but where have all the heads and tail sets gone ?
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Not as mature as one, just needs time, keen dark eyes and alert, easily spanned, would be able to get into any were when required,
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
17th Oct 2021
Judge: Mrs Nancy Hogg (Raeburnfoot)
It was an honour to judge my favourite show. Many thanks must go to all who made it run so smoothly. Special thanks go to Janice Johnson and Judy Carr for their stewarding. So helpful.
Had some lovely dogs to go over. Temperaments were good. Just a couple of grumbles. A few shown with no coat and placings reflected this. Bites were good. Some teeth larger than others. Front movement in particular let some down. I did find more than a few which were difficult to span. Needs watching.
Junior - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Typey border. Pleasing head. Good shoulder placement. Narrow all through. Spans well. Finer boned than 1 and 2.
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Championship Show
13th Nov 2021
Judge: Mr M Ord
Massive Thank You to The Officers & Committee for inviting me to judge your Championship Show today. This club I was a member of in the formative years and have fond memories of the very first Championship Show where I was an exhibitor. It is good to see a club go from strength to strength and the committee worked very hard to put on this event in what has been difficult times to plan ahead. Thank you everyone who entered today and I was honoured with an entry of 150 Dogs, 192 Entries & 0 NFCs. Like every show absentees were inevitable but I hope those present today took my decisions sportingly.
A few general observations on todays entry which are my thoughts and because I care so much for this lovely breed. Driving to the venue today was a perfect way to view the countryside where this breed was developed and all could see the rough terrain they would need to work in. It is essential you judge a breed with the work they were bred to do foremost in your mind and learn why they are built the way they were and why the breed standard exists. It is a dog show and we now want to see them clean, healthy and well presented but I was sad to see today several exhibits with very clear evidence of scissor work on the coats and not just on tidying feet etc. Please stop this trend NOW. Several were scissored from hip to hock, no need to do this & does nothing to enhance the dog. Good otter heads were not in abundance today and I witnessed a lot of fly away ears. We have always witnessed the odd one but today quite a number could be seen when the dog was in action & not always on youngsters either.
Coats as always were in various stages today but you must judge the dog on the day and find evidence of the correct texture and undercoat which is vital to stop the working dog getting wet through to the skin. Mouths were very good today as where tails which have thankfully improved greatly. Some exhibits in my opinion had lovely conformation however where far too big and long in leg. I though ribs were good with only a few that would be unable to be spanned with the average size hands. I did find today the bitches were more uniform for size so just need to work on the males not becoming big, leggy & heavy.
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
pleasing in head, eye & ear, moderate length to neck leading to well placed shoulder & corresponding upper arm, has excellent body & ribs carried well back, strong in loin, easy to span rib & not over sprung, sound driving rear action which then provides the action to enable the front correctly, in excellent double coat, tail correctly set & carried
Manchester & District Sporting Terrier Club
14th Nov 2021
Judge: Mrs Alison Matthews (Tojamatt)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Whitehaven & District Canine Association Open Show
21st Nov 2021
Judge: Tracey Anscombe (Orangebox)
Thank you to the committee for the invitation to judge at your show and to the Border Terrier Club for their support of the classes. I thoroughly enjoyed my day, there was a friendly ringside atmosphere and lovely exhibits to judge. Some of the entries in the younger classes didn’t settle that well on the move, perhaps due to the distraction of the large amount of bait left on the ground from the previous classes, but they did well enough and were all sound just distracted.
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, Beaconpike Dionysus
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
BD BOB G1, This was for me the star of the day and I am pleased the terrier group judge agreed. Grizzle and tan presented in a lovely deep double coat with good pelt. He has a typical head with correct ear placement, punishing jaw housing big teeth. His lay of rib into loin was just lovely making him easy to span and giving him a balanced silhouette when stood in profile. Had a good front and rear action when covering the ground on the move still holding his shape and retained that sparkle in the challenge which is what pushed him over the bitch for Best of Breed then topped off with going Group 1
Sunderland & DCS Premier Open Show
28th Nov 2021
Judge: Libby Tanton-Joy (Itsaso)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, Beaconpike Dionysus
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Boston & District Canine Society Championship Show
9th Jan 2022
Judge: Professor A S Milton (Baillieswells)
Junior - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Manchester Championship Show
20th Jan 2022
Judge: Mr Stuart Plane
What a weekend it proved to be for Border Terriers
Junior - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
A good type in rather fuller coat of good texture, appealing in head with dark eyes correct mouth true front, into a good topline ,spans ok with a loose pelt
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
26th Feb 2022
Judge: Anna Duxbury (Ridgebow)
I would sincerely like to thank the Officers and Committee for inviting me to judge at this lovely well run show and for their kind hospitality on the day. Also for the lovely gifts received from the Club.
Many thanks also to my two stewards Judy and Marina, who were a great help and kept things running very smoothly.
I was extremely flattered by the wonderful entry and would like to thank each and every exhibitor for kindly allowing me to go over their dogs, and for their sportsmanship when accepting my decisions.
Coats, as always were very varied at this time of year, and some had to pay the penalty for not having enough topcoat. Nearly all dogs were spannable, all males were entire and dentition was good overall. I found I had some difficult decisions to make, and I was sorry I could not give more places.
Post Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Lovely head and expression, as usual for this kennel. Nice reach of neck, good angulation, also moved well but not enough coat to beat 1 today.
Crufts
11th Mar 2022
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Curtis (Matamba)
Crufts has always been a memorable experience for me, from sitting ringside to winning top honours in this breed, and to retire from judging with my last appointment being Crufts was a special occasion. Many thanks to all the exhibitors for the entry of 233 dogs making 257 entries with 28 absentees.
It was a long day and with only one steward for almost all of the classes my sincere thanks must go to Robyn Burnett. Plus a special thanks to Judy Carr for stepping in to help Robyn in those last big classes to help us finish just in time to get the BOB to the Group. Also to Joyce Martin the photographer who worked hard throughout the day to get those special pictures, thank you. I enjoyed my day judging but found some of the classes quite challenging.
I was pleased with the lineup and my principal winners, but a little disappointed with what I was finding when the dogs came to the table. The standard reads “Head like that of an otter moderately broad in skull and small ears dropping close to cheek” but some were so untypical of our breed with narrow skulls, weak jaws and small teeth, with ears that were too big and standing away from the cheek.
In every class there were some that just could not be spanned - being too deep in the chest and strong in the rib. Movement was better behind than in front. Finding dogs with a short upper arm, this not only restricts the movement but when standing almost gives a Fox Terrier type front which I was seeing, to start accepting these deviations as acceptable would be a sad day for our breed as we know it.
General condition of the dogs was good, jackets came in all stages mostly acceptable with some good thick pelts. One problem I found today was the baiting of dogs on the table. In some cases it made it hard going for dogs and judge - no need to top and tail and bait all at the same time - personally I just needed the dogs to stand still.
Yearling - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Whitehaven & District Canine Association Open Show
20th Mar 2022
Judge: Mrs Sue Baxter (Mysulan/Sulan)
My thanks must go to the hard working committee for the kind invitation to judge
Border Terriers at this show. The welcome was warm and the hospitality on the day
was excellent.
There was a lovely entry and my gratitude goes to the exhibitors for their support ,also
the sporting manner in which my decisions were taken.
My general observations were as follows, bites mostly correct , males appeared intact ,
no tail kinks but what I did find was a few dogs quite broad chested and rather wide at
the front, rears were less of a problem .As breeders we must remember that
narrowness throughout is not only desired but needed if Borders are to be capable of
doing the job that they were bred for.
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Best Dog
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
17 month grizzle . Smart young male , nice proportions , ribbed well back and strong in loin. Lovely outline with 8good topline and tailset , layback of shoulders was good , could span very easily . Jacket of good texture .. Good masculine headpiece with true varminty expression . Jaw nicely furnished with good set of teeth. Moved true both coming and going . Made a nice picture in profile both stacked and on the move. Pleased to award him Best Dog and Best Opposite sex .
The Border Terrier Club Championship Show
26th Mar 2022
Judge: Dr. Ron Wheatley (Loiriston)
I was very privileged and honoured to judge this excellent show and would like to thank the members of the Border Terrier Club for their invitation, and the committee for their help and hospitality. The committee and members had provided a wonderful range of Specials and mementos to celebrate the Centenary of the Club. Many thanks to my very efficient ring stewards, Carol Mackenzie, and Judy Carr, for their help through a long day. Thanks also to the exhibitors for the large entry of 183 dogs, making 223 entries with 43 absent, which ranged over many types. There was quality in depth in many classes with close decisions. I found no kinky tails, two exhibits with one missing front tooth, and a few bites that had worn even. Coats as might be expected were at different stages, most in good coat and a few with the top just coming through.
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Good size, spanned well with good length of body, good coat and pelt. Well angulated and moved well.
National Terrier
2nd Apr 2022
Judge: Miss J Singh (Vandamere)
I would like to thank the Secretary of the National Terrier Club and committee members for their warm welcome and superb hospitality. I had a nice entry of 113. Inevitably there were some absentees. It was encouraging to see young handlers in the ring and I hope they continue to enjoy the show scene.
I found three wry mouths and one exhibit with a kink tail. A couple of exhibits were in need of muscle tone and condition. This is achievable by good feeding and exercise and not starvation. My thanks go to my very capable stewards who kept the proceedings running smoothly.
RDCC
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
an honest type of dog. He was presented in good hard condition with a pin wire double coat. He has a plyable pelt good ribs and is easily spanned. His head is a good otter shape, strong muzzle,scissor bite and nice ear placement which gave him a keen expression. His front was straight with good bone and neat feet. Pleasing angulation and second thigh in evidence. He moved with purpose and drive. RDCC
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
9th Apr 2022
Judge: Mr. Tim Ball (Kaitak)
A thoroughly enjoyable day and my thanks go to the officers and committee for their kind invitation to judge their well-run Open Show. I was delighted with the excellent entry and what a pleasure it was to spend a day with the Borders and their owners. There were some well-filled classes which gave me lots to think about and some decisions were extremely close. A lovely atmosphere prevailed and applause for the winners was consistent throughout.
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
19 mth old who particularly appealed and was so good to go over. He presented such a well balanced outline with excellent neck, firm topline, deep narrow chest with ribs extending well back, good underline, muscular loin and thick tail of correct set and carriage. Soundly constructed all through, standing nice and straight in front on super feet and firm, well-muscled hindquarters with well let down hocks. Moderate breadth to skull, dark expressive eyes which are set well apart, ears of correct set and strong muzzle although a fraction longer. Harsh jacket with dense undercoat and good pelt. Moving true on the down and back and with excellent profile action and carriage. Well handled.
Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
16th Apr 2022
Judge: Mrs C E Sansom (Tarkaswell)
I would like to thank the committee and members of the Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire border terrier club for the invitation to judge at this friendly club show. My stewards Tracey Anscombe and Sian Mckay were very efficient and kept the day running smoothly. Thank you to the exhibitors for a lovely entry and accepting my decisions in a sporting manner. It was a privilege to judge your dogs.
I had some quality borders to go over, and my decisions reflected my interpretation of the breed standard, on the day.
Some exhibits lacked the typical otter head, moderately broad with a short, strong muzzle and keen expression, which is definitive in our breed. Coats were generally good, harsh and dense with thick pelts, but several exhibits would have benefitted from having their feet trimmed. I found no kinked tails, dentition was generally good and all dogs were entire.
There was a lovely atmosphere, especially during the challenges, and I thoroughly enjoyed my day.
Best In Show
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Best Dog
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
This grizzle and tan dog stood out for balance and moderation of construction. He could undoubtedly do the job that he was bred for.He had a masculine head with a dark eye, keen expression, strong muzzle and large teeth. He was narrow throughout, with a good shoulder placement and his ribs carried well back. His loin was firm and flowed into a well set carrot like tail. He was presented in a harsh, dense coat with a thick, loose pelt. Correct construction with good angulation, enabled him to move easily with purpose and drive, absolutely true fore and aft. Pleased to award him BD and BIS.
The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Championship Show
18th Apr 2022
Judge: Mr M. Hollingsbee (Otterwood)
I would like to thank the Committee of the Club for entrusting me to judge this
show. Due to my age I have decided that this will be my last appointment at this
level. I would like to thank my able stewards Sarah Pateman and Kay Tuffin for
keeping me in order and ensuring a smooth running of the show. All of the
Committee worked very hard and I thank them.
Having said that, what a lovely standard of dogs were placed before me. Overall
coats were excellent and I did not detect one bad mouth. The only criticism I have is
that a few exhibits did not have the feet and nails trimmed.
Graduate - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
A very nice dog, looked good in profile, moved with drive, short harsh coat
Joint Border Terrier Clubs' Championship Show
30th Apr 2022
Judge: Miss Elspeth Jackson (Clipstone)
What a great honour it was to be invited to judge the Joint Border Terrier Clubs’ Show in the Border Terrier’s centenary year. Waiting an extra two years did not decrease my excitement for the appointment and my anticipation was richly rewarded with a super entry both in turns of numbers and quality.
My critique must start with several expressions of gratitude to those who made this appointment possible and so enjoyable.
To the Committee for inviting me to judge at such a prestigious event. It was truly an honour, and the memory of the day will be one I shall treasure. Further the hospitality that myself and my family were shown at the show and the dinner following was much appreciated. We all had a great time.
To the show organisers, especially Show Manger Helen Axford, whose organisation and show layout allowed everything to run smoothly even when the weather was a little less than kind to us.
To my capable and efficient Stewards Christine Horner and Sharon Pickering. Having you in the ring with me was both supportive and enjoyable.Thank you to the exhibitors for giving me a lovely entry to judge. I enjoyed judging each and every dog whether in the cards or not. I had some tough decisions to make and in the stronger classes five places was insufficient for the depth of quality. A number of dogs I liked very much went cardless. I loved the line up in both my challenges and was able to find the type I wanted in all classes.
I was glad to find some super coats and pelts. The changeable late April Border weather and biting wind certainly showed us the importance of these. It left us in no doubt that for a Border Terrier working the Border country in the colder winter months and at higher elevations a good coat is a must. I understand that it is not always possible to present your dogs at a show in the perfect jacket but when out of coat, personally I prefer to see a dog neatly stripped back rather than left with a few top coat hairs.
I found three mouths with teeth well out of line and a couple of tails were questionable but overall the quality was excellent.
Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
So much to like about this balanced young dog, good for size, easily spanned ribs carried well back to good loin. Good head and expression. Shown in good jacket. Held his own in the challenge and given more time I am sure he will succeed in the push for top honours.
Sunderland & DCS Premier Open Show
15th May 2022
Judge: Mr R Wright (Borderexpress)
A big thank you to the committee/officers of the Sunderland & District Canine Society for asking me to judge the Border Terriers at today’s Premier Open Show. A lovely entry of 25 dogs so a big thank you to the exhibitors for supporting my entry today and presenting some really nice dogs.
Also a big thank you to my steward for the day, Mr Tom hall who kept not only my classes but all of the terrier ring for the day finishing off with the group.
Borders were first in the ring today so I had the chance to see all of the terrier classes develop during the morning and then pleased to see my Best Of Breed go Terrier Group 2 – well done.
A lovely friendly show well supported and being an outside event weather held and the sun shone for most of it. Thank you all again for a lovely day and your support -
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG2, Beaconpike Dionysus
Post Graduate /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
21 month old Grizzle & Tan dog that you struggle to find anything to fault him, smart masculine head with a nice expression and dark eye. His front construction is gun barrel straight leading into super lay of shoulder and a lovely flat rib – this construction gives him a narrow look throughout. He has a lovely rear angulation and this helps him move around the ring with purpose, set down in a lovely jacket and nice thick pelt. Pleased to award him BOB on the day and nice to see him go on and get PG2.
The Scottish Kennel Club Championship Show
21st May 2022
Judge: Mrs G Vaughan (Holteal)
I would like to thank Scottish Border Terrier Kennel Club and committee for my invite to judge and award my 1st CC appointment,their hospitality and welcome was appreciated greatly for such a long trip from my home county of norfolk i thoroughly enjoyed my day judging and thanks to my 2 great stewards who kept my ring running smoothly.
To have an entry of 87 dogs I believe the 6th highest of the whole show with only 19 being absent on the day which is to be expected was a great honor for myself.
Coats as always were in many different stages,not always easy to target for every show entered,I found no major faults in any of my exhibits thankfully but some dogs lacking good thick pelts and a few longer and not so desirable longer tails. There were some closer choices between some dogs in the stronger classes.
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Presented today in really good condition with a really good harsh coat,nice strong head and good jaw.easily spanned and moved with great drive.
Bath CS Championship Show
27th May 2022
Judge: Mrs Jean Willetts (Hanway)
I would like to thank Bath Canine Society Committee for my invitation to judge Border Terriers at their show. I would also like to thank my steward as she was on her own, and did an excellent job of running the ring and dogs smoothly. I’d also like to thank all the exhibitors who entered, I had a very enjoyable day going over each of the dogs.
On the whole most of the dogs were in good condition. Most dogs presented had good pelts and coats, however there were a few with thin pelts. There were a few long tails and some large ears. The movement on the whole was sound.
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Nice size with correct head and expression, neat ears. Good neck and shoulders. In good condition with harsh coat and pelt. Moved well round the ring, keeping his top line and tail set on the move. Liked him, but lost his sparkle in challenge.
Southern Counties Canine Association
3rd Jun 2022
Judge: Mrs Elizabeth Barrett (Howthwaite)
Thank you to the committee for inviting me to award my first set of CCs. Although my appointment was originally for 2020, it was worth the wait. Thank you to my stewards Doug and Sue for keeping me in line and the ring running smoothly. And most of all, thank you to all of the exhibitors for your entries and for allowing me to go over your dogs. I also want to thank anyone who made unsporting comments, for doing so out of my earshot.
As I would expect, the entry was on the whole very pleasing. Thankfully, I didn’t have many exaggerations, such as ultra short muzzles or over-angulated hindquarters. Unfortunately though, good fronts, and in particular clean, well laid, shoulders and good front angulation, were few and far between. Movement, with both good reach and drive and accuracy was hard to find, so I did find myself forgiving the odd wayward front legs on dogs that otherwise had good construction and an easy ground covering stride. I would rather see a dog a little loose and covering the ground than one very accurate that can only take a three inch stride. All dogs were entire. There were only a couple of less than perfect bites and an ever so slightly kinked tail. Only a select few had a good short carroty tail, and some were very long, something we need to look out for. A few, including some bitches, were big in the rib and far too heavy to pick up and quite a number had very little undercoat and thin pelts. I looked for good construction and movement, balance and no exaggeration. I found several dogs that I would happily award CCs to on another day and had the privilege of having to really nitpick, especially in the dog challenge.
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Lovely handy sized grizzle and tan. Strong muzzle, dark eye, well set ears and he possesses an excellent set of teeth. Excellent neck and shoulders with good return of upper arm. Not too heavy in bone with straight front legs and small well padded feet. Narrow throughout and easily spanned. Good topline and short well set tail. Racy hindquarters, he moved accurately and well off his hocks with free and easy movement. He was a strong contender in the challenge, I’m sure he’ll soon be gaining top honours.
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.
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
I really liked this g & t dog a lot and he was considered further in the challenge. Spot on for size and comes to hand well with an easy span. Scores well in all departments, pleasing head, keen expression and so alert. Good angulation both ends, fit condition moving well both ways. Harsh coat nearing its end and loose pelt.
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!
RDCC
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Lovely dog who was in full correct harsh double coat. Very easily spanned with great shoulder placement and moved effortlessly round the ring with drive. a Super head, strong jaw and bite completed the picture RCC
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.
Post Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Young dog of a very nice type, well made all through, excellent head, good for bone, good feet, good angulations both ends so well balanced, moving very well. Shown in a very well blown coat which let him down in the challenge.
East of England
9th Jul 2022
Judge: Mr Bob Blackley (Vaevictus)
Graduate - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Excellent well balanced dog with a good head and expression well angulated and constructed, good coat and pelt, moved well with good reach and drive.
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.
Yearling - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
This grizzle is of a nice size and balance. Well proportioned head with a keen expression, good mouth. Nice reach of neck, good front assembly. Good length of body with strength of loin. Nice carroty tail. Tight harsh jacket. Moved soundly around ring.
Durham & County Canine Assoc. Premier Open Show.
17th Jul 2022
Judge: Lesley Armstrong-Rodgers ( Atron/Scottsway )
Thank you to the Committee for inviting me to judge Border Terriers at this extremely well run event, especially for pulling off such a great show despite being let down at such a late stage with their original venue. The Committee must have really pulled together, so very well done. I must say that they even had far more toilet facilities than some Championship Shows of late !.
I was delighted to be greeted with a super entry, not just numerically, but in quality too !. Thank you to all the exhibitors for bringing their Borders for my opinion today.
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
I found this young dog such a pleasure to go over. From his typical head to his correctly set on tail. Looked so well balanced standing with no exaggeration. Owns a masculine head with lovely dark eye and typical expression, large teeth with a good scissor bite. Small well placed ears on a moderately broad skull. Stands with a straight front with sufficient bone to his neat well padded feet. Narrow throughout and easy to span. Super topline and underline and well placed carrot like tail. Moved accurately, both in front and rear in both his class and when challenging for best dog, even though the ground was rather uneven !. I was delighted to award him BEST DOG but unfortunately in the challenge for Best of Breed he seemed rather distracted and did not give his all on the move, The free flowing movement of my Best Bitch being the deciding factor today.
Carlisle & District Canine Society Open Show
31st Jul 2022
Judge: Dr Margaret Armstrong (Ploughdown)
I’d like to offer my thanks to Carlisle and District Canine Society for asking me to judge Borders on the day and to the committee of the Border Terrier Club for proposing me for the appointment. It was a very bright, sunny day so being inside the arena gave the exhibitors and the exhibits some relief from the heat. Although generally Borders prefer the open air and often give of their best outside. I’d like to offer my appreciation to my steward on the day for his efficient and effective management of the classes; he was super. My thanks also go to the exhibitors who entered their dogs and were so pleasant and sporting in accepting my placings. My decisions were based on how I saw the dogs on the day and some decisions were very close.
Best Dog
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Best Opposite Sex
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Caught my eye when he came into the ring. Lovely balance to this grizzle dog who spanned well. Clean, classic body lines. Otter head set off by neat, well shaped ears, flat skull, short strong foreface and a great scissor bite showing big white teeth. Great length of rib and strong loin. Fairly short double jacket and some depth of pelt. Straight front legs and neat thickly padded feet. Rear end well angulated. Moved with drive. Front and rear movement true. Tip top condition and showed well. BOS
Welsh Kennel Club
21st Aug 2022
Judge: Mr T Johnston
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Masculine balanced head with dark eye, neat ears, and good expression. Moderate neck, straight bone and good feet. Good loin and well developed rear. Tail well set, harsh coat, spanable and good pelt. Moved with good action holding a nice outline.
Wolsingham & Wear Valley Agricultural Society Open Show
4th Sep 2022
Judge: Tracey Anscombe (Orangebox)
Thank you to the committee for the invitation to judge at your show and providing the steward, Lesley. She was brilliant keeping the ring and me in order! The classes were supported by the Northern Border Terrier Club which I know is greatly appreciated and lovely rosettes provided. I believe that not only did we have the biggest terrier entry but the biggest breed entry in the show. Thank you to everyone who entered, I thoroughly enjoyed my day. The weather held and no umbrellas required resulting in a pleasant ringside atmosphere and lovely exhibits to judge giving me a lot to think about.
Limit /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
A dog I have judged before and still think very highly of. He has all the attributes a border terrier should have, otter like head, scissor bite, large teeth, harsh double coat, spannable,ground covering gate that could follow a horse all day. I could go on however my views of the lovely boy are well documented. In the final line up for Best of Breed I was confronted with an extremely tough but pleasurable decision and would have rewarded him reserve best of breed if there was one to award.
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.
DCC
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
2 year old who has a pleasing otter shaped head with a keen expression and a powerful jaw with big teeth. Nice reach of neck and shoulder placement with well ribbed back. His double jacket was of good texture and he spanned with ease. He moved with drive and purpose. A really well balanced dog of handy size who was presented in fit hard condition. A pleasure to award him the D.C.C.
Class Critique
What a super class of quality dogs. Very close decisions for the placings with several good ones having to go home cardless.
Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire Border Terrier Club Championship Show
24th Sep 2022
Judge: Mrs. Margaret Bailey (Grindelvald)
I would like to thank the officers and committee for asking me to judge the show, also making me feel so welcomed. A big thank you to my 2 stewards Tracey and Kathleen who kept me on track, also to all the exhibits and exhibitors, who gave me a lots of quality Borders to go over. I wish I had more CC’s especially in the dog classes. My concern with in the breed, is their fronts, straight shoulders, with very little angulation, which effects the front movement. All dogs had a good bite, a couple with level bite, but not a problem. All males were entire. Grooming needs to be addressed, tidying their underneath, also the feet need to be neatly trimmed and the nails cut correctly, it makes such a difference when presenting them to the Judge. 1or 2 needed ring craft classes. However, overall what a great representation of the breed. I was very pleased with my main winners.
Mid Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Handy size, excellent head, keen expression . big teeth, nice neck into well laid shoulders. Level topline, correct tail set, Narrow throughout,. Moved with drive, presented in lovely show condition.
Northern Counties Sporting Terrier Association Open Show
16th Oct 2022
Judge: Mrs M Wanless (Thorneyburn)
This was a last minute appointment for me, as Tina Jones had to stand down at the last moment owing to her Mothers serious illness.
What a super entry she had drawn!!! fifty one 1st entries and six repeats.
All dogs shown had good mouths, almost all had thick pelts and super harsh jackets.
All dogs were entire, and most were easily spanned.
Best Dog
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Very smart 2 year old , well presented. Head good,strong jaw, with big teeth, dark eye, neat ears, into a nice length of neck. Good shoulder, a straight front, strong bone, tidy feet. Good length of rib, easily spanned and good rear angulation. He moved with a lovely ground covering stride, very responsive to his handler. In a close decision, I was pleased to award him BEST DOG.
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.
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
cracking dog with so much to like about him, type/balance/movement, lovely head & expression, correct front with well laid shoulders, pleasing overall length with spanable body & strong quarters, in good coat with thick pelt. Moved & handled well.
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.”
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Another good looking grizzle, shade smaller than winner.Well balanced dog with good head and bite.Shown in heavy coat,just going over, pelt good.Free moving.
The Border Terrier Club Open Show
25th Feb 2023
Judge: Mrs Julie Fletcher North (Northborders)
Firstly I would like to thank the Committee for my invite to judge my first Club show , also my 2 able stewards Judy and Kathy for keeping me and the ring in order , mostly I thank the exhibitors for their wonderful entry and allowing me to go over their beautiful dogs , I thoroughly enjoyed myself, I was really pleased with both my line ups , I loved all my main winners and look forward to following their futures
Best Dog
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Best In Show
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Lovely sized red boy ,so lovely to go over with no exaggeration, good otter like head with very little stop , good bite and nice neat ears, best of fronts with lovely rib carried well back so easily spanned, brand new tight jacket , lovely tail set and level top line , beautifully angulated , this dog excels on the move in profile and coming and going he makes a balanced picture, so pleased to award him BIS
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.
Mid Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
A dog you need to get your hands on to appreciate his many virtues. Another of good size and built on clean lines. Pleasing head and expression. Excellent front assembly with a good layback of shoulder which showed in his side gait on the move, covering the ground with good reach and drive. Firm well muscled body and the best of quarters.
Whitehaven & District Canine Association Open Show
19th Mar 2023
Judge: Miss Katie Hamilton (Cromlechs)
Best Of Breed
Name at show: TG1, Beaconpike Dionysus
Best Dog
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
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.
Mid Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
love this g/t, have judged this boy before, not overdone in anyway, has a fabulous jacket, covering excellent bone, masculine head with well set ears, good body length, well set tail, moved well for and aft, just didn’t have the verve today.
The Northern Border Terrier Club Open Show
8th Apr 2023
Judge: Mrs J Carr (Wreighaugh)
My thanks go to the Committee of the NBTC for their invitation to judge their Open Show. I was honoured to receive this appointment and am incredibly grateful to the exhibitors who gave me such a great entry. It was a most enjoyable day and special thanks go to my Stewards, Andrea Pitt and Mark Atkinson, for keeping me on track and helping the ring to run smoothly.
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Grizzle and Tan. A very smart dog. He has a good head with a strong jaw and big teeth, nice short strong muzzle and neat ears. A nice length of neck leads into good shoulders and a lovely straight front. There’s a good length of rib and he is easily spannable and narrow throughout. He has good rear angulation which gives him great drive when moving out. He has a good double coat and thick pelt.
Joint Border Terrier Clubs' Championship Show
30th Apr 2023
Judge: Mrs Hilary Gilpin (Otterbobs)
A very big thank you to the SBTC for inviting me to judge this very well run show, to Marina for stewarding and to the exhibitors for entering under me.
Mid Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Harsh coated grizzle with plenty of it, head and skull ok, good length of neck and body, nice and slim spannable which won him his place over 2nd.
The Scottish Border Terrier Club Open Show
4th Jun 2023
Judge: Mrs V Atkinson (Raedwulf)
Thank you so much to the society for inviting me to judge this wonderful show. To my steward, Judy Carr, thank you for running my ring so efficiently, especially in the heat. Thanks must go to the ladies for our delicious lunch too. I was presented with some super examples of the breed and there were some tough decisions, especially in the bitches. I do also think the heat affected the performance of some as the day progressed. On the whole mouths were good, but a couple of very knotted tails and some dogs I was unable to span, even with generous allowance which would preclude them from fulfilling the breed standard of ‘essentially a working terrier’.
Reserve Best Dog
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
This dog stood alone but was a very worthy winner. A little lacking in coat but that will come. He is in very fit condition and presents a smart picture. A balanced dog with good head and ear, strong neck and straight front, he has tidy tight feet and enough bone. He has lovely rear angulation with a good turn of stifle which gave him drive. He moved straight both ways, I liked him a lot. RBD
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.
Mid Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Shown in his underclothes today, and I bet he was glad in the heat. Grizzle dog with masculine head with a dark eye, keen expression, strong muzzle and large teeth. Easily spanned and narrow throughout.
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.
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Class Critique
This class had a delightful bunch of super dogs, making it a privilege to judge today!
The Northern Border Terrier Club Championship Show
15th Jul 2023
Judge: Mr David Fryer (Irton)
My thanks to the Club for trusting me with a fine entry of dogs at this, one of my favourite shows; to my stewards for their understated efficiency which kept the show rolling; and to the exhibitors for the opportunity to go over their dogs, and for the sporting acceptance of my decisions.
The Border Terrier Breed Standard is a very brief document; as such, it needs some interpretation. The clue is in the first clause of it; ‘Essentially a working terrier’. This, together with a knowledge of the work the breed is traditionally expected to perform, gives an idea of the dog required. Thus we need a dog which can keep with the hunt over rough moorland country in what may be inclement weather, and then be able to go to ground and bolt or hold it’s own to a cornered fox. This implies sound, efficient movement, adequate heart and lung room, a weatherproof double coat and a thick, pliable pelt; but at the same time be small enough and flexible enough to follow a fox to ground .
Overall, I found most exhibits to be sound, and well presented (sometimes ‘overpresented’ to the extent that coats had more appearance than substance). The most prevalent fault I observed was untidy, converging front movement; an inevitable consequence of short upper arm and upright fronts. I did also find a few faulty bites; one undershot, one youngster with a lower incisor seriously out of line; and several with level bites, which, though permitted in the standard, are not (to my mind) desirable; also undesirable to me were the number of exhibits with small teeth in weak forefaces. There were also a couple of ‘winter noses’, but that, to me, is a purely cosmetic point and not to be penalised. All males were entire.
RDCC
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
nice, neatly made red dog, well angulated fore and aft, movement pretty near perfect, could perhaps do with a bit more strength in head, good coat and pelt, neat feet with thick pads, good tail, in good fettle RCC
Class Critique
A challenging class, a lot of quality
Leeds Championship Show
29th Jul 2023
Judge: Mr Brian Aubrey (Jenabeck)
Thank you all for a wonderful entry, I had to make some difficult choices on the day, but as always, I judge the dog on the day friend or foe and not what the dog as done in the past or what it will do in the future.
a few things did concern me on the day (1 ) so Many dirty teeth, (2) a few unfit dogs due to being overweight, (3) and the most concerning is short legs on one or two of the borders,
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Paignton Championship Show
5th Aug 2023
Judge: Colin Powell (Bowtman)
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
A good expression, clean out-lines, good bone, deep body with correct spring of rib, good pelt and harsh coat, moved soundly fore and aft once settled, put down in good condition
The Midland Border Terrier Club Championship Show
6th Aug 2023
Judge: Mr. Bob Wright (Totherend)
It was a real honour to judge my home club’s show and my thanks go to a great committee for the opportunity and the way they run the club with all hands to the wheel. Richard Wright and Sharon Pickering had my back and have my appreciation for a great day’s stewarding.
I was disappointed in the early dog classes where what initially looked like an impressive line-up failed to materialise once on the table or on the move. Movement was a weak spot for a surprisingly large number of exhibits, especially front movement. There were three poor mouths and one exhibit that couldn’t be spanned but lots of good pelts, coats and neat feet. However long tails are becoming more common and a true carrot tail is about as rare as hen’s teeth. I was fascinated by some handlers interpretation of a triangle, suffice to say it’s a good job it wasn’t a maths exam.
Once again there were only two CCs available which is a great shame when there are so many who warrant them. I can only sympathise with those who went home empty handed. It was most likely a reflection of the strength of the classes rather than their standing. The bitch classes were especially strong with at least six exhibits worthy of much more than I had available to offer. When it came to the line ups I was clearly torn and had to be really picky to get to a decision but in the end I was pleased with all the winners.
Whilst there is still much that can be done to improve some aspects of the breed there is a lot to be proud of with some really stunning exhibits out there.
Limit - Dog /
Third Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Class Critique
Strong class this and could have gone many ways
The Welsh Kennel Club Championship Show
19th Aug 2023
Judge: Jane Morton Shaw (Fehmarn)
I would like to thank the WKC committee for inviting me to judge at this lovely show. It was very well organised with a super friendly atmosphere.
Thank you to all the exhibitors for your entry & accepting my decisions so graciously.
I thoroughly enjoyed my day, but I have to apologise for the late start! I’m always super early for everything, and had arrived on the showground by 8am. Unfortunately my watch battery ran out at 8.20 and I was mortified when I realised it had stopped and to find out that the time was 9.35!!!
I was very pleased to see my BOB, BPIB & BVIB shortlisted in their groups, with Veteran going on to Group 3.
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Driffield Championship Show
26th Aug 2023
Judge: Mrs. Liz Wright (Totherend)
My thanks to Driffield Championship Dog Show Society for the invitation to judge today and thanks to my stewards Peter and Lesley Armstrong, who kept the ring running smoothly. Thanks also to the exhibitors for allowing me to go over their dogs. Front movement in the breed still needs some improvement, but overall I had lots of quality exhibits. Bites were good and only one kinked tail.
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
One I’ve admired from ringside and he didn’t disappoint. Narrowly beaten in the challenge for RCC. Typical border, not overdone, well balanced and moved with ease around the ring.
Class Critique
Lots to like in this class
City of Birmingham Championship Show
2nd Sep 2023
Judge: Mrs K Wilkinson (Otterkin)
Thank you to City of Birmingham for the invitation to judge this show, for the very large ring provided to the breed and to all the exhibitors who entered under me – I was very pleased with the overall quality of the entry of 122 dogs making 144 entries in these days of falling entries, with very few absentees (16 from “new dogs” by my count).
The ring stewards did an excellent job of keeping everything running smoothly – so thank you to John Gardner and Ken Francis.
I would like to send my best wishes to Anna Duxbury (Ridgebow) who had initially been under contract to judge this as her very first Championship Show. Having seen Anna judge at the Border Terrier Club’s Open show in February 2022, I know she is a very experienced and knowledgeable judge as well as an excellent breeder and hope in time that she is able to take on another Championship Show appointment in the future. I had originally been invited to judge this show in 2024 and had sent my acceptance letter, but when the Secretary contacted me, I agreed to bring forward the appointment to 2023.
I have taken the name/s of the owner/s and the dogs’ names direct from the catalogue. Some may have other owners or Kennel Names added, or awards such as Ch or JW added now, but I must use the details from the catalogue.
*Handlers* – please do not stuff food/tubes of treats into your dogs’ mouths just before the judge needs to look at their dentition. Those who stood behind their dogs and held the lead, I had no problem examining their dogs’ mouths, but a small number of others who were stuffing food into their dog’s mouth as I approached, once they moved away, some dogs were up on their hind legs trying to get more food/treats from you. I had to examine the rest of the dog then come back and look in the mouth again when the dogs were not fidgeting about looking for food. If you are doing it to avoid the dentition being checked, it won’t work as a judge will just come back to it!
It was quite hot in the hall. Kudos to all the dogs as they were not put off by the noise made when judge and/or handler stood on whatever was under the carpet making a “clunk” noise. I found when spanning dogs, almost all of them were hot underneath. Never felt that before, even when judging in 90 degree heat outside in America, so just be aware that your dog may be getting overheated.
Limit - Dog /
Reserve
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Wolsingham & Wear Valley Agricultural Society Open Show
3rd Sep 2023
Judge: David Alcorn (Lourdace/Comalegy)
Thank you to the committee for inviting me to judge at this buzzing, well organised, show. It was an extremely hot day so I moved dogs less than I perhaps would normally, to allow for the extreme temperatures we were all enjoying but the dogs were not. There was a good public attendance who seemed to enjoy the array of breeds on show. Thank you for the marvellous entries in the terrier breeds which made for a very enjoyable day indeed.
Border Terrier
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Class Critique
Two good sorts in this class, who each have attributes to appraise. Both present typical outlines when stood up and have balance of angulation fore and aft. Preferred the front angulation and straighter front action of 1, but preferred the more otter like head of 2. Both easily spannable and presented in good order. A close decision
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.
Reserve Best Dog
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Well balanced and presented, good head and stop, strong teeth good reach of neck, nice topline into short tail, harsh jacket and thick pelt, ribs well back neat feet, moved out well. RES BEST DOG
Class Critique
1 withdrawn
South Wales Kennel Association
13th Oct 2023
Judge: Mr W Shorthose (Cundytyke)
I think hind movement has generally improved though the same cannot be said for fronts. Most were shown in good coat and only one exhibit was clearly of poor temperament.
Limit - Dog /
Second Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Bit more on the leg, good head, good length of body with ribs carried well back, spannable, moved well and shown in correct coat.
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
DCC
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Best In Show
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
G&T dog that I’ve admired for some time and today did not disappoint. Beautiful typical otter head with keen dark eye, shallow stop and ears set correct. Narrow front with tight feet. Good reach of neck flowing into excellent topline and tailset. He stands out on the move, covering the ground with ease being so well angulated front and rear. He was showed in perfect harsh coat and thick loose pelt. Easily spanned dog that is not overdone in any way and has class in abundance. Was pleased to award him DCC with BIS
Manchester & District Sporting Terrier Club Open Show
19th Nov 2023
Judge: Sonia Connell
Best Of Breed
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Open /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Ladies Kennel Association
8th Dec 2023
Judge: Mr Ken Bartlett (Dwilencia)
Limit - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
Placing Critique
Liked him for his shape and size, well balanced in head, narrow front, good legs and feet, racy hindquarters, best of coats and moves true.
Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cheshire Border Terrier Club Open Show
4th May 2024
Judge: Mr Ken Fraser (Ycart)
Open - Dog /
First Place
Name at show: Beaconpike Dionysus
